What are unusual circumstances?
Unusual circumstances are when a student is unable to contact a parent or where contact with the parent poses a risk to the student. Examples include human trafficking, legally granted refugee or asylum status, parental abandonment or estrangement, and student or parental incarceration.
How can I be considered an independent student?
To be considered an independent student, you must meet one of the following criteria and provide documentation:
- Born before January 1, 2001
- Married (and not separated)
- A graduate or professional student
- A veteran
- A member of the armed forces
- An orphan
- A ward of the court
- Someone with legal dependents other than a spouse
- An emancipated minor
- Someone who is unaccompanied and homeless or self-supporting and at risk of being homeless
What other types of professional judgment can students and families request?
Other types of professional judgment include:
- Changes in dependency status
- Changes in income or expenses after filling your 2024-2025 FAFSA
- Changes in cost of attendance after filling your 2024-2025 FAFSA
- Professional judgment cases will be reviewed after you receive a complete financial aid offer.
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact sfs@alvernia.edu.
