Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you’re considered independent or dependent for financial aid (FAFSA) depends on specific criteria set by the U.S. Department of Education. Your status affects whose information must be included on your application.

• You are an Independent Student if at least ONE of these is true:
• You are 24 years old or older by January 1 of the school year.
• You are married.
• You are a veteran or currently serving on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces.
• You have children who receive more than half of their support from you.
• At any time since turning 13, you were:
  • in foster care,
  • a ward/dependent of the court, or
  • in legal guardianship.
• You are/were an emancipated minor.
• You are homeless or at risk of homelessness and self-supporting

You are a Dependent Student if none of the above apply.  

This means you generally must include your parents’ financial information on the FAFSA.

Still unsure?

If your parents’ situation is unusual (e.g., no contact, unsafe home, abandonment), you may qualify for a special circumstance or dependency override. Learn more information on Appeals and Overrides.

Yes. The FAFSA, as well as most other forms of aid, must be submitted annually to receive aid for the next academic year. Visit our Deadlines page to see details on when to apply! We recommend completing applications ASAP to ensure all required information is received.

Yes. Any outstanding Verification documentation can delay or prevent your financial aid from being processed and awarded. It’s important to submit all requested documents as soon as possible. You can submit items to Financial Aid in person in Gordon Student Center or via email to fasc@sunyocc.edu.

After submitting your FAFSA, be sure to complete your New York State TAP application and apply for OCC Foundation Scholarships. Once all applications are received, Financial Aid will begin reviewing your file and preparing your Award Letter. Keep an eye on your MyOCC and OCC student email for updates. You can also review our full step-by-step guide to make sure all requirements are completed. 

Financial aid refunds are issued after your aid has disbursed to the college and all tuition and fees have been fully covered. This typically occurs mid-to late-semester. To receive your refund as quickly as possible, make sure you’re signed up for Direct Deposit through MyOCC.

Loans do not automatically apply to your account. If you want to use loans to help cover your balance, you must accept them in MyOCC and complete both Entrance Counseling and the Master Promissory Note at studentaid.gov. Be sure to borrow responsibly and only accept the amount you truly need, loans must be repaid. 

If you or your family has had a significant, documented change in financial circumstances—such as loss of employment, divorce, death of a parent or spouse, or unusual medical expenses—you may submit a Special Circumstances Form to request a review and possible adjustment to your financial aid.