Special and Unusual Circumstances
The FAFSA requires families to provide income information from two prior years on the application however the University of New Haven recognizes that families may experience special circumstances (income or cost of attendance related items) or unusual circumstances (issues pertaining to a student’s dependency status based on a unique situation) that are not reflected in the information on the FAFSA or happen after the FAFSA has been filed. Families who encounter a significant change in income, a change in marital status, the loss of a job, or other unusual circumstances that are affecting their current situation, should notify the Financial Aid Office. Once all required documentation is received by the Financial Aid Office, it will be reviewed to determine if additional financial assistance can be offered to the student.
Items families will need to provide will vary but in general, for a student's file to be re-evaluated for Special Circumstances the following must be provided to the Financial Aid Office:
- Special Circumstances Appeal Form
- Letter explaining the Extenuating Circumstances
- Supporting Documentation (examples are listed on the Special Circumstances form)
Note: Be advised that the submission of an appeal does NOT guarantee an adjustment to the student's financial aid.
For students experiencing an Unusual Circumstance, please contact the Financial Aid Office directly so we can better understand the situation and advise what documentation would be needed based on the scenario.