If I live on student loans, does someone else need to claim me? I understand that loans/grants/scholarships do not count as income. So then how do I file?

I have lived with my boyfriend for the past 3 years. My parents previously filed my taxes for me, and this is my first year filing my own taxes. I support myself and pay bills using loans/scholarships/grants (around $9700 per last year). I am confused about how to file this year, do I let my boyfriend claim me because he pays the rent? Or am I independent? If I am independent, how do I account for my "income"?