Aid Offers

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Outline for Preparing "Special Circumstances" Letters

Most students and parents accept the first financial aid package they are offered. This initial offer is largely developed by computer and takes into consideration information from the financial aid forms. Often this information does not clearly describe a student or family's actual financial circumstances. While the initial offer may meet a student's financial need according to federal formulas, it is not necessarily the best or final offer. 

Financial aid offers can be changed to reflect a student's or family's unique financial circumstances. The best way to communicate individual circumstances to the financial aid office is to prepare a letter describing what obligations and resources the student/family actually have to meet educational costs. December and January are the best time to begin working on your family's "Special Circumstances Letter," but these letters can be sent whenever you need to ask for more aid. The following is an outline of important information to include and some tips to help you get started.

I. Address the letter to the Director of Financial Aid at the selected college.

II. First Paragraph
A. Introduce the student to the reader and include the student's social security number (most financial aid offices track students by SSN).
B. Reinforce how much the student appreciates the opportunity to attend this college/university.
C. Reinforce that the student/family are working hard to find financial aid and scholarships.

III. Second Paragraph
A. Explain that in addition to submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you need to explain your special financial circumstances not noted on the form. Explain any unusual expenses from the past year or those anticipated during the current year.
B. Provide a list of all monthly or annual financial obligations not included on the FAFSA. It is not necessary to list each expense, they can be grouped in large categories (housing, transportation, personal debt and credit cards, food, clothing or other bills you have).

IV. Third Paragraph
A. Show how much money you have left each year after paying all your bills and explain how much of this money can be contributed to the student's college costs.
B. Thank the Director for her/his consideration and offer to discuss these details by phone or in person if necessary (provide your phone/address).