Can You Ask for More Money From FAFSA?

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) serves as the gateway to various forms of financial assistance for higher education. While the initial aid determination is based on the information provided at the time of application, it is not always a final decision. Students and families can seek a re-evaluation of their financial aid package under specific circumstances. This process allows for adjustments if the originally submitted FAFSA does not accurately reflect a family’s current financial capacity.

Qualifying for More Aid

Several situations can lead to a re-evaluation of financial aid eligibility, often termed “special circumstances.” These are unforeseen changes in a family’s financial situation that significantly impact their ability to contribute to educational costs. The college’s financial aid office reviews these circumstances case-by-case.

Income loss or reduction is a common reason for aid adjustment. This includes job loss, decreased work hours, or reduced wages for the student, spouse, or parents. For example, parental unemployment or a pay cut lasting eight weeks or more can warrant a review.

Other qualifying situations involve significant life events. The death of a dependent student’s parent or an independent student’s spouse can prompt re-evaluation. Divorce or legal separation of a dependent student’s parents, or of an independent student, can also lead to an aid adjustment.

High, unreimbursed medical or dental expenses can also be considered. These costs significantly drain family financial resources, affecting their ability to pay for college. Catastrophic losses, such as damages from natural disasters (e.g., floods, hurricanes) or unusual business, investment, and real estate losses, are also recognized as special circumstances, especially with changes for the 2024-2025 FAFSA.

Loss of untaxed income or benefits (e.g., unemployment, child Social Security, alimony) can qualify a student for more aid. Unusual elementary or secondary school tuition expenses may sometimes be considered by certain institutions. However, situations like secondary tuition payments for siblings, asset reduction without income change, or increased standard living expenses do not qualify for an aid adjustment.

Preparing Your Request

Gathering and organizing specific documentation is a key step when seeking a financial aid adjustment. The financial aid office will require verifiable evidence to support any claims of changed circumstances. This documentation helps administrators understand the full scope of your situation and make an informed decision.

For income changes (e.g., job loss, reduced hours), collect termination letters, layoff notices, or employer documentation detailing employment end dates and severance. Pay stubs, unemployment benefit statements, or employer letters confirming reduced hours or wages are also essential.

For divorce or separation, legal documents like decrees or separation agreements are required. A death certificate serves as primary documentation for a death in the family. For significant unreimbursed medical expenses, gather medical bills, payment receipts, and insurance statements showing uncovered costs.

For loss of untaxed income or benefits, provide official letters or statements confirming payment cessation (e.g., child support termination, Social Security benefits). For catastrophic losses from natural disasters, insurance claims, police reports, or other official documentation detailing damage and financial impact are necessary. Organize these documents clearly, highlighting relevant information. Each college’s financial aid office may have specific forms or preferred submission methods; check their website or contact them directly for requirements.

The Request Process and What to Expect

Submit your request to the college’s financial aid office once documentation is prepared. This “professional judgment” review allows financial aid administrators to adjust FAFSA data elements case-by-case due to special circumstances.

Contact the financial aid office at each college to initiate the review. They will guide you on appeal procedures, which may involve a special circumstances form or a detailed written statement. Submit your supporting documents, often through a secure online portal, by mail, or in person.

After submission, the financial aid office reviews your case. This review typically takes several weeks, with decisions often within 30 days to six weeks. The office may contact you for additional information. Outcomes vary.

If approved, your Student Aid Index (SAI) (previously Expected Family Contribution or EFC) may be adjusted, potentially increasing eligibility for federal grants, subsidized loans, or other need-based aid. However, an appeal does not guarantee an aid increase, as approval depends on the institution’s assessment. You will receive decision notification via mail, email, or portal update. If special circumstances persist, you must appeal again each academic year.