While independent status is determined primarily by age, what truly characterizes independent students and sets them apart from dependent students are their work and family responsibilities. Independent students who had no family responsibilities also appeared to be more self-sufficient than dependent students in at least one important way: they were more likely to work full time while enrolled (57 percent vs. 22 percent) (table 6b).

The types and amounts of aid for which independent students apply and which they receive depend largely upon their family and work responsibilities, attendance status, and where they enroll. In short, their life circumstances, as much as their academic and career goals, work together to shape their varied needs.