Special Circumstances
What If I Have Special Circumstances?
During the academic year, you and your family may experience a change in your financial situation. You may feel your situation is unusual or warrants additional consideration. You may think an error was made in the calculation of your financial need. It is possible to ask a financial aid counselor to review your financial aid application and make adjustments that more closely reflect your individual circumstances. It is your responsibility to notify the Office of Financial Aid of any special or unusual circumstances or changes in your financial status that may affect your ability to pay for college.
The first step is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Once the college receives your FAFSA data and it is verified by the college, you are ready to file for "Special Circumstances". Applying for special circumstances requires that you first visit the Office of Financial Aid to make an appointment and to collect the appropriate form –Income Adjustment Worksheet or the Unusual Expenses form.
On the day of your appointment, you should bring with you any documents that support your special circumstances. Once you have met with the counselor, you will be provided with a list of required documents. Because this is a process, be prepared to make several visits to the Office of Financial Aid in order to resolve this matter.
