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Special Circumstances

When students and/or their families experience a change in financial circumstances, the information on the FAFSA may no longer accurately reflect their financial situation. In some cases, the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarship Services may be able to adjust income information based on these special circumstances.

Students and families affected by COVID-19, recent national emergencies, or natural disasters

If you or your family have been affected by national emergencies like COVID-19 or natural disasters like flooding, you may consider requesting a Special Circumstances review. A review does not guarantee additional financial support but does allow the Office of Financial Aid and Scholarship Services to consider any loss of wages or out-of-pocket expenses you or your family incurred as a result of the incident.

Types of Special Circumstances

  • Job termination or loss of income (due to change of job and/or reduction in hours worked)
  • Divorce or separation after the FAFSA was completed
  • Death of a parent or spouse after the FAFSA was completed
  • Reduced earnings due to disability or natural disaster
  • Loss or reduction of untaxed income or benefits
  • Loss or reduction of child support/alimony received
  • Child support paid
  • Housing expenses
  • Medical or dental expenses
  • Dependent care expenses
  • Retirement
  • Parent in College (at least half-time, matriculated…)

Fall 2021- Spring 2022 Special Circumstances and Acceptable documentation 

Fall 2022- Spring 2023 Special Circumstances and Acceptable documentation 

To request a Special Circumstances review:

1.      Complete the relevant aid year FAFSA at fafsa.gov

2.      Email Specialcirc@kean.edu and indicate your Special Circumstance(s)

3.      The Special Circumstances team will assess your eligibility for the Special Circumstance

If your request is applicable you will be emailed a link and/or forms with instructions on how to continue the process. 

You will also be notified if additional information is required to make a determination or if your request is not applicable.

  • The Special Circumstances review cannot be processed until all documentation is submitted.
  • A Special Circumstance Review does not guarantee additional aid.
  • Therefore, students are responsible for all charges while their requests are being considered.