Special Circumstances for FAFSA

Special circumstances refer to alterations in a student's or parent’s financial, enrollment, or living situation that may influence their cost of attendance or ability to pay educational expenses. Such changes could result in the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) no longer accurately reflecting the student's or parent’s current financial stituation.

These circumstances may include specific financial situations that justify an adjustment to the Cost of Attendance (COA) or the Student Aid Index (SAI) calculation. The Higher Education Act (HEA Sec. 479A) provides examples of special and unusual circumstances that may include, but are not limited to:

• A change in employment status, income, or assets.
• A change in housing status (e.g., homelessness).
• Tuition expenses at an elementary or secondary school.
• The enrollment of additional family members in postsecondary education.
• Medical, dental, or nursing home expenses not covered by insurance.
• Child or dependent care expenses.
• A severe disability affecting the student or a member of the student’s household.
• Other significant changes or adjustments that affect the student's ability to meet the costs associated with higher education.

It is important to note that this list is not exhaustive.

Requesting a Special Circumstance Review

Starting June 1st, before the Fall semester, and after the initial aid offer is made students and parents may submit a request for a special circumstance review to have the student’s financial aid eligibility reassessed. The Office of Financial Aid will evaluate each request individually, considering the unique nature of the student's circumstances. The Special Circumstance form can be selected by visiting our Forms page and selecting the appropriate parent or student version that matches the FAFSA year to be processed. To schedule an appointment with a Financial Aid Counselor, call us at (208) 282-2756.