The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a tool used to estimate a student and family's ability to pay (Expected Family Contribution - EFC) for educational expenses by using prior year income. On occasion, unusual circumstances occur that may warrant reevaluation of a student's financial aid eligibility. On a case-by-case basis, these special circumstances may be changes that have occurred in your family situation since you filed the FAFSA, or unusual family circumstances not accounted for on the FAFSA.
If you have a special circumstance, you may be eligible to apply for a Request for Special Circumstances. Some examples of a special circumstance may include the following:
- Reduction or Loss of income or benefit
- Elementary or Secondary school tuition
- Medical, dental or nursing home expenses not covered by insurance
- High childcare costs
- Being homeless or a dislocated worker
- Other changes in the family's income or assets
- Change in marital status
- Loss of untaxable income or benefit
- Death of a parent or spouse
- Lump Sum payment
Request for review of special circumstances require an appointment with a Financial Aid Advisor. Please complete the Advising Request Form below for consideration.
Note: CSUSB continues to assess the situation surrounding COVID-19 (Coronavirus) and the impact on our students. The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships is considering the assistance students may need. Please indicate on the Advising Request form if you are experiencing a hardship due to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus).