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Financial Aid Appeal Process

Occasionally, unique circumstances influence income for students and/or families. These circumstances have an impact on the ability to pay for college. Utilizing the Special Circumstances form (available in Financial Aid Forms), allows students and/or families to indicate special circumstances that may not be evident on the FAFSA. Prior year income is used to assess financial need for the upcoming academic year.

If current year income will be lower due to special circumstances the Student Financial Services office may be able to use current year projected income to assess financial need. A processed FAFSA and completed verification, if selected, must be on file before special circumstances can be considered. Supporting documentation is required in most instances as indicated in the table below.

Circumstance Required Supporting Documentation
Loss of Income Letter from employer showing date of termination, copy of final pay stub showing YTD earnings, proof of unemployment benefits if applicable.
Disability Disability documentation from physician and any documentation regarding disability benefits you receive or will receive.
Alimony Court documentation showing payments received, termination date (if applicable), and total amount received for current year.
Child Support Court documentation showing payments received, termination date (if applicable), and total amount received for current year.
Death Indicate relation (parent/spouse) and provide a copy of the death certificate.
Worker’s Compensation Documentation from the Bureau of WC stating date of benefit, termination date (if applicable), and total amount received for current year.
Divorce (post FAFSA) Copy of divorce decree and document income and assets for the coming year.
Separation (post FAFSA) Copy of separation agreement or a letter from attorney.
Unusual Medical / Dental Copy of Schedule A of prior year federal income tax return. Non-filers - copies of the provider statement, cancelled checks and confirmation of total tax amount paid by insurance.
Other Documentation as appropriate for situation.

Contact Student Financial Services