Appeals for Reconsideration of Financial Aid

Financial aid eligibility is calculated based on the information provided on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Income and asset information is evaluated using a formula called Federal Methodology as set by Congress. The formula assumes that previous year’s income, assets, and family size are good predictors of a family’s financial strength. Based on this assumption, financial aid eligibility is determined using previous year income information. However, the Department of Education gives the Financial Aid Office the authority to use Professional Judgment on a case by case basis to adjust elements in the federal need analysis to take into consideration a family’s special circumstances.