Financial Aid Appeals

Federal laws governing financial aid allow the Office of Student Financial Aid to recalculate financial need in cases of special circumstances not taken into consideration by the Free Application of Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Financial aid appeal reviews will be completed within 3-4 weeks after receipt of all required documents. Do not rely on the success of your appeal to cover your expenses. You are responsible for paying your own tuition by the due date. If your bill is not paid on time, you may be assessed late fees or your registration may be cancelled. Also, please be advised that a change in your eligibility does not guarantee an additional award of financial aid. If your appeal is approved, your application will be considered again for whatever funds are available.

General Appeal

This office recognizes that each applicant for financial aid may, at some time, desire to appeal a decision he or she feels is unfair. Types of appeals include:

• Request for additional aid - student who has genuine need for additional aid after all other available options have been exhausted
• Priority Deadline - due to extenuating circumstances a student did not file the FAFSA by the Feb. 15th financial aid priority deadline (note: a student's unawareness that the deadline existed is not a reason for an appeal)
• Financial Aid Budget - review the Cost of Attendance (budget) due to rent, childcare, books/supplies, or unreimbursed medical expenses being above the allowable amount for the 9-month academic year. Student must provide supporting documentation to verify the expenses such as a signed copy of current full lease agreement, childcare receipts, etc.
  Note: If your budget appeal is approved, it may not automatically increase your financial aid.

To submit a general appeal, please complete the General Appeal Form.

Special Circumstances Appeal

To ensure fairness and compliance with federal regulations, there are limits to which circumstances can be considered. Special Circumstances are considered on a case-by-case basis. Common special circumstances include, but are not limited to, changes in income, high medical bills not covered by insurance, change in marital status, and death of a parent/spouse. The Office of Student Financial Aid is not able to consider circumstances such as high mortgage, car payments or consumer debt.

To submit a special circumstances appeal, please complete the Special Circumstances Appeal Form.

If you have any questions about the general or special circumstances appeal, please contact the Office of Student Financial Aid at 301-314-9000, option 1 to speak with a counselor.