When there are unusual situations or circumstances that impact your federal student aid eligibility, federal regulations give a financial aid administrator discretion or professional judgment on a case-by-case basis and with adequate documentation to make adjustments to the data elements on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®) form that impact your Expected Family Contribution (EFC)/Student Aid Index (SAI) to gain a more accurate assessment of your family’s ability to contribute to your cost of education. The Department of Education does not have the authority to override a school’s professional judgment decision. Examples of unsual situations or circumstances may be, but are not limited to:
• Loss or change of employment (those due to cause or personal choice are not applicable)
• Child Support change.
• Death of parent or spouse.
• Excessive medical expenses (must exceed 11% of adjusted gross income)
• One-time taxable income (IRA distribution, pension distribution, etc.)
• Inability to provide parent data
To set up an appoint to discuss your unusual situation or circumstance, please contact financial_aid@cacc.edu.