Special Circumstances SAI Appeal

Federal financial aid regulations specify that financial aid eligibility is based on income and tax returns in the prior-prior tax year. We understand that sometimes the FAFSA does not accurately reflect you or your family’s ability to pay for college.

In some cases, a family's financial circumstances may have changed since the tax year information being used to complete the FAFSA. You may request that we evaluate your need-based aid on your more current financial situation, such as income earned in the current or prior year instead of the income reported on the FAFSA.

Examples of special circumstances that may be considered

• Loss of Taxable/Untaxed Income 
  • Loss of employment of 8 weeks or longer (this requirement may be waived in certain situations), loss of social security or disability benefits, other significant reduction of income, etc.
• Separation or Divorce
• Death of Parent or Spouse
• Medical/Dental Expense (expenses paid and not covered by insurance)
• One-time Income Exception

Guidelines

• FAFSA Required: You must complete the FAFSA for the specific academic year before submitting a special circumstance appeal. 
• Case-by-Case Review: The Office of Financial Aid reviews special circumstances on an individual basis. While we fully evaluate all submitted information, submitting an appeal does not guarantee a change in your financial aid eligibility.

• Annual Renewal: Appeals must be submitted annually. Receiving an adjustment for one academic year does not guarantee approval for future years.

Procedure

How to Request an Appeal:

1. Select your academic year below.
2. Gather the required information.
3. Call, email, or book an appointment with your financial aid counselor.

Select your academic year: