Special Circumstances
Students who feel that their FAFSA does not reflect their ability to pay for college may have "special circumstances". Students should contact the Financial Aid Office to discuss their situation and see what additional information is needed. There are many examples of special circumstances. Here are five common special circumstances:
1. Unemployment or Loss of Income
The FAFSA asks families to report prior year tax information. If you or your parent loses a job or has a decrease in income, it may be possible to use "anticipated income".
2. Medical or Dental Expenses
There is nowhere on the FAFSA to list unusually high medical or dental expenses. If these expenses are not covered by insurance, it may be possible for them to be recognized.
3. Parent Attends College
The student cannot include parents in the "number in college" on the FAFSA. Therefore, a parent's college costs are not considered. If a parent is attending college and the costs are not being reimbursed by an employer, those expenses may be taken into account.
4. Parent Divorce
Marital status is determined on the day the FAFSA is signed. If parents separate or divorce after that day, the Financial Aid Office can help decide what information should be updated to reflect the new household situation.
5. Dependency Status
Students who cannot answer "yes" to any of the dependency questions on the FAFSA need to provide parent information. If the student cannot provide parent information, he or she should explain their situation to the Financial Aid Office. The school will decide if the student can be considered independent.
In each of these situations, the Financial Aid Office will ask you to provide documentation. The Financial Aid Office will review your individual situation and let you know if you are eligible to receive additional financial aid. Keep in mind that each college may make a different decision.
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