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When a student completes a FAFSA on , they answer a series of questions to determine their dependency status. Independent students do not require parental data, while dependent students do. On the surface, the Student Aid Index (SAI) calculation should be the same for both students. There are subtle differences between the two dependency statuses that can alter the types of financial aid a student may qualify for.

The SAI formula treats income differently depending on a student’s dependency status. For both groups, dependent and independent, the SAI calculation begins with the adjusted gross income value. From there, it applies specific allowances to determine the amount of discretionary income available to pay for college expenses.

Dependent Students

Dependent students are unique in the fact that the SAI calculation uses financial information from the student and their parental contributors.

The parental contribution portion of the formula considers parental income and assets after subtracting a standard living allowance and an asset protection allowance.

While simplified, the student contribution portion of the formula can be complex to understand once a student’s income exceeds a certain threshold. All income sources count in the student’s SAI contribution, including name, image, and likeness revenue if the student is a college athlete. Like their parental contributors, students receive an income protection allowance of approximately $11,130.

Here’s where things get funky for students and their SAI formula: 50% of every dollar earned above their income protection allowance ($11,130) goes towards a student’s SAI figure. On the assets front, 20% of the student’s personal assets apply to the student’s SAI figure. As a student’s income increases, so do their chances of achieving a higher SAI figure.

Independent Students

Independent students do not need parental data on the FAFSA form. Therefore, an independent student SAI calculation relies solely on their own financial data and their spouse’s financial data (if legally married). Like dependent students, independent students must report all their income on the FAFSA form. However, independent students receive a higher income protection allowance than their dependent counterparts. If an independent student has dependents, such as children, then their income protection allowance will continue to grow in the SAI formula.

Independent students also face a steep assessment after their income protection allowance: 50% of every dollar earned above that allowance adds to their SAI figure. Asset calculation for independent students in the SAI formula can vary depending on whether the student has dependents other than a spouse.

The chart below summarizes the key differences in the SAI calculation for dependent and independent students. It’s important to note that other factors can increase or decrease a student’s SAI. If a student has specific concerns regarding their SAI calculation, they can chat with their school’s Financial Aid Office to learn more about their FAFSA results.