Special Circumstances for Federal Financial Aid Programs
Authority for Special Circumstances
Federal law allows financial aid administrators the authority to exercise professional judgment to adjust the information on the FAFSA on a case-by-case basis for special circumstances. This authority allows financial aid offices the ability to adjust the FAFSA data elements to more accurately reflect changes in income or dependency status if the information on the FAFSA does not properly reflect a student's current situation. Financial aid offices are not required by law to perform these adjustments; however, the Office of Financial Aid at Brooklyn College recognizes the need for students to appeal for consideration of applicable special circumstances.
Note
Submission of an appeal does not guarantee approval.
Defining Special Circumstances
"Special Circumstances" under this provision are defined based on specific categories. Within those categories there are different appeal scenarios that require adequate supporting documentation. In order to be considered for special circumstances at Brooklyn College, you must meet the criteria outlined for that type of appeal, provide supporting documentation as indicated, and meet with a financial aid adviser for appeal review and counseling. Special Circumstances cannot be used to waive eligibility requirements or circumvent the intent of the law or regulations.
Special Circumstance Categories
Below is a listing of specific Special Circumstance/Professional Judgment appeal categories. An explanation of each appeal type and what is applicable for consideration is available on the corresponding webpage (see sidebar) for each category:
- Dependency Status Override
- Student and/or Parent Income Adjustment
- Student and/or Parent Unusual Expense Adjustment
If none of these categories apply to you and you still have questions about what constitutes a special circumstance, schedule an appointment with a financial aid adviser for more information.
Appeal Process
To best understand the appeal process, please review the relevant special circumstance category webpage (as noted above or accessible on the sidebar) and then review the Appeal Process webpage.
