i am 20 years old and live on my own. i have a full time job, and own my vehicle. My apartment, car, and all my bill are in my name. How can i still be considered a dependant student? My parents have not been able to claim me on their taxes in over 2 years and cannot afford to pay for any of my schooling. The main reason im asking this is beacause as a dependant student i only recieve $3000 per semester. But if i was considered a independant student i would recieve almost $6000 per semester. I am completly independant and do not understand why i am considered dependant. someone please help me figure this out! There has to be a way to get out of my dependant status.