WTF! Who the hell made this stupid law? Applying for student loans is based on the parents income/tax returns up until the child/adult is 24 yrs old!

unless they can show proof that they are "independent" then its based on their own finances

Not sure I undrestand your frustration. A "parent" in a theoretical world is a responsible adult, that is RESPONSIBLE fo thier minor children and thier expenses. If a child is in school, they are still considered a DEPENDENT on thier parents taxes, etc etc until age 24 (cause again therortically that should be enough time to complete school). So for the income of those RESPONSIBLE for the person applying for a GOVERNMENT LOAN(AKA MY TAX DOLLARS) to pay for something that is for that child (AKA PARENTS DEPENDENT / RESPONSIBIBLITY), I think it is prudent for us to know if they really need the cash, or are just trying to get something for free, as is the case alot of times. And ther are alot of people who try to milk the system and take advantage of it. (not saying you of course)

With that said, we live in a real world not a theoretical one, so that has screwed a few peeps up because thier parents are...crap. but it is what it is. Life is a crap sandwich, you either eat it, or ya starve.