This updated guide (version 2.0 –September 2011) provides information for anyone who helps youth from foster care and unaccompanied homeless youth to secure financial aid for postsecondary education or training programs. It describes how to respond to the 2011-2012 FAFSA questions 52-57 that will determine federal financial aid status for these students. An important section on sensitive communications is also included.

This updated guide will be most useful for college financial aid professionals, independent living coordinators, guidance counselors, financial aid counselors, social workers and advocates who are helping youth to secure the maximum allowable financial aid. Helping students with the questions that determine their dependency status for financial aid is critical to qualifying for adequate financial aid.