Although the process of determining a student's eligibility for federal student aid is basically the same for all applicants, there is some flexibility. For instance, if your financial aid counselor believes it's appropriate, based on the documentation you provided, he or she can change your status from dependent to independent. See Are You a Dependent or an Independent Student? for more information. In some cases, your financial aid administrator may adjust your cost of attendance or the information used to calculate your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) to take into account circumstances that might affect the amount you and your family are expected to contribute toward your education. These circumstances could include a family's unusual medical or dental expenses, or your parent's (if applicable) recent unemployment. If conditions such as these apply to you or your family, contact your financial aid counselor and request a special condition form.

Check with your financial aid administrator if you feel you have any other 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 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.

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