Ask the Experts: Can I Get Fin Aid as a U.S. Citizen Living Abroad?
The following question was submitted via the Ask the Experts form:
“I am a U.S. citizen but grew up in a foreign country because my parents are not U.S. citizens. After 25 years living in this country (not U.S.), I decided to further my study in the U.S. I found out about FAFSA and I’m considered an independent student.
My question is, since I never worked or studied in the U.S. before, am I going to receive some aid or loans? Do I need a co-signer for FAFSA loans? This means a lot to me because I can’t afford to pay by myself, neither can my parents. Thank you.”
– Zafran
Hi Zafran,
Thanks for your question. The FAFSA is meant for use by U.S. citizens attending U.S. colleges and universities, and since you are a U.S. citizen planning to study here, you can and should use it. In fact, even students attending U.S. schools and who are not U.S. citizens are often asked to submit the FAFSA so that their desired schools can assess their financial need. [1]
Because you are a citizen, the process for applying for aid is the same as it would be for other citizens, even though you have never worked or studied in the U.S. Most of the FAFSA questions are intended to simply determine your level of financial need.
When you are completing the FAFSA, make sure you have all of the information pertaining to your identity and financial situation ready. We’ve written an article to help you gather what you would need [See: How to Prepare for the FAFSA].
We’ve also written an article that talks about what to do if you do not have U.S. income tax returns, which is most likely the case for you. You should read and understand the requirements for filing income taxes when you are a U.S. citizen living abroad, as in some cases, U.S. citizens living abroad are still required to file income taxes. I don’t know whether or not that requirement applies to you, but it’s better to find out before submitting the FAFSA. Having an income tax return ready is going to make applying for and receiving federal financial aid much smoother.
To answer your question about co-signing, you do not need a co-signer for federal Perkins or Stafford loans; however, you may need to supply some information about your parents, even if you are an independent student. The FAFSA provides a useful tutorial as you are completing it online, and it will ask you several questions to help determine your dependency status. Answer the questions as accurately and completely as you can.
Thank you for reading College Money Insider and good luck with your college admissions process!
