Yes. You can appeal your financial aid award if there has been a change in your family circumstance or if you believe that the process did not account for a specific aspect of your family situation. The following is a list of reasons why you might appeal your financial aid award:
- Job loss
- Reduction of income
- Illness/Disability
- Addition to family
- Natural Disaster
- Death
- Relocation
- Separation/Divorce
- Private Tuition
- Care for elderly parent
- Increase Child care expenses
- Changes in number of dependents in household
- Unusual or one-time events that inflated your income the previous year
There other reasons why you might appeal an award. A school’s Cost of Attendance (COA) may not capture your actual costs. For example, a student from out of state may have much higher travel expenses than the average used in the COA. Also, if you receive a higher award from another school, some schools may match the award. Some schools, however, have explicit policies stating that they will not consider awards from other institutions.
You can only make changes by contacting the school directly with an appeal for a change in financial aid. You cannot change the financial information reported on your SAR. The school’s financial aid office can change your EFC making eligible for more federal and institutional aid.
An Inside Look at Financial Aid Appeals
Tips For Appealing Your Financial Aid Award
Financial Aid Award Appeal Samples Special Circumstances
1 thought on “FAQ: Can I appeal my financial aid award?”