In special circumstances, a student who does not meet any of the criteria for independent status may still be considered independent. The Financial Aid Officer has the authority to declare a student independent even though the student does not meet the criteria for independence. If the student can be declared by the FAO as independent of the parents, the parents income and assets will not be used for assessment. Some aid programs for the health profession curriculums beyond the bachelor’s degree level may still require the parents’ asset and income information.