Special Circumstances Affecting Aid Eligibility
Special Circumstances Forms
A Special Circumstances Form (SCF) must be completed by students who wish to inform the Office of Student Financial Aid of unusual family financial circumstances. The form outlines the types of requests we can consider and the documentation needed to support the issues. Some of the guidance includes:
- If you are selected for verification, all required documents must be submitted to the Office of Student Financial Aid before your Special Condition request can be considered.
- Only the circumstances defined on the Special Condition Form can be considered for adjustments.
- If the SCF review results in a revision of awards, a new Financial Aid Notification will be sent to you.
- All complete SCF forms are reviewed and students are notified of the committee's decision in writing.
Adjustments due to Loss of Household Income
There are a variety of reasons why the income in a household may decrease. Unemployment or underemployment, loss of regular earnings, or a loss of untaxed benefits can happen. These can sometimes be factored in to the aid calculation if properly documented.
Adjustments due to Death of a Parent or Spouse
This is a particularly tragic event that we hope none of our students experience. But since this dramatically changes the structure of the household, it too can lead to possible adjustments in the aid evaluation.
Adjustments to the Cost of Attendance
We use average costs when establishing a Cost of Attendance. In order for an adjustment to be made to your calculated expenses, the requested adjustment must meet all three criteria listed here.
- Moderate
- Non-discretionary
- Related to your degree
You will be expected to provide documentation (for example, receipts, letters from agencies, a memo from your advisor, etc.). These costs are reviewed for the academic year or summer terms of enrollment.
- A Dependent Care expense is allowed for periods of time that the student is in class.
- Books and supply costs in excess of our estimated averages can be allowed as long as they are required for a course or your degree. Receipts and proof that the cost is necessary for your degree or a particular course are typically required.
- Purchase of a personal computer (receipts/other documentation required). This is limited to $2,000 for adjustments over a four-year period.
- Special study programs and other special expenses (study abroad or handicap expenses, for example).
- Costs related to excessive required travel for educational purposes can be considered.