Are companions considered group members in PVE solo play, or is that only for multi-player situations?

Outside of OP groups, group size is limited to four, and comps do count toward that limit of four. So a group of three people could use one comp, or a group of two people could use two comps, but if someone were to join that group of three that comp would be dismissed.

Are companions considered group members in PVE solo play, or is that only for multi-player situations?

This depends upon what you're getting at.

When it comes to "Solo" play, you are still considered to be solo, even with a companion. So, things like "story" or "solo" mode, Heroics, flashpoints, etc, can be (and usually are) done with a companion.

Basically, "solo" play in SWTOR is assumed to include a companion.

 

For group play, companions are considered to be group members.

This depends upon what you're getting at.

When it comes to "Solo" play, you are still considered to be solo, even with a companion. So, things like "story" or "solo" mode, Heroics, flashpoints, etc, can be (and usually are) done with a companion.

Basically, "solo" play in SWTOR is assumed to include a companion.

 

For group play, companions are considered to be group members.

 

Also, just to add, companions don't count for social points, ie if there are two players, and two comps, you still only get the SP's for two players, not four, even though, technically, there are four in the group.

Also, just to add, companions don't count for social points, ie if there are two players, and two comps, you still only get the SP's for two players, not four, even though, technically, there are four in the group.

There are 4 characters, yes, but only 2 players. Social Points are to encourage players to do stuff together.