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Dependency Overrides

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Many students feel they are independent because they currently live on their own or because their parents no longer claim them on their income taxes. Others feel they should be considered independent because their parents refuse to provide information on the FAFSA or because their parents cannot afford to help with college expenses. However, these reasons are not sufficient for an appeal.

The Office of Student Financial Assistance is required to consider parent information and expect a parental contribution for students who are not independent according to the above FAFSA definition unless exceptions are made. Exceptions are made only when adequate documentation of extenuating family circumstances exists. Extenuating circumstances are generally defined by students' inability to have contact with their parents.

If you have extenuating circumstances you may download and complete the Dependency Override online at www.usi.edu/finaid/sfaforms.asp. Please submit all requested documentation with the form. Incomplete Dependency Overrides will not be processed.

 

Special Circumstances

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Although the process of determining a student's eligibility for federal student aid is basically the same for all applicants, there is some flexibility.

Check with your financial aid counselor if you feel you have special circumstances that might affect the amount you and your family are expected to contribute. But remember, there have to be very good reasons for your financial aid counselor to make any adjustments and not all adjustments will change your financial aid eligibility, and you'll have to provide adequate proof to support those adjustments. Also, remember that your financial aid counselor's decision is final and cannot be appealed to the U.S. Department of Education.

"Policies That May Affect Financial Aid"