special circumstances - professional judgement

Although the formula used to determine eligibility for federal student aid is basically the same for all applicants, there is some flexibility.

In some cases, the Financial Aid Office might adjust your cost of attendance or the information used to calculate your EFC to take into account any special circumstances you might have. These circumstances could include a family's unusual medical expenses or tuition expenses. Also, an adjustment might be made if you, your spouse, or either parent (if applicable) has been recently unemployed. If conditions such as these apply to you or your family, contact the Financial Aid Office.

Also, check with the Financial Aid Office if you think you have any other "special circumstances" that might affect your dependency status or the amount you and your family are expected to contribute. But, there have to be very good reasons for the Financial Aid Office to make any adjustments, and you'll have to provide adequate proof to support those adjustments.

Note that the Financial Aid Office decision is final and cannot be appealed to the U.S. Department of Education.