Office of Financial Aid

Special Circumstances

There are several types of special circumstances that can affect student status and aid eligibility during the year. Special circumstances must be unaccounted for by the regular awarding process. For example, an unexpected loss of employment could potentially be a reason for filing a Special Circumstances request. Lifestyle choices, such as the purchase of a new car or home, and other situations unrelated to higher education, such as credit card debt, are not considered special circumstances. Special circumstances must always be thoroughly documented.

If any of the situations described in the links on the left apply to you, contact the OSFA to discuss what relevant documentation will be required.