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2025

2025-2026 Unusual Circumstances/Dependency Override Appeal

Student Information

The US Department of Education allows financial aid administrators to use professional judgment on a case by cases basis where unusual circumstances prevent a student from being able to provide parental information on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), commonly referred to as a dependency override appeal.

Please note by federal law the following situations in and of themselves would not be considered an unusual circumstance for a dependency status appeal:

  • Parents unwillingness to complete the FAFSA.
  • Parents refusal to contribute financially to a student’s education.
  • Parents do not claim the student as a dependent on their taxes.
  • Student’s demonstrated self-sufficiency and/or living on one’s own.

Unusual Circumstances may exist if you:

  • Left home due to an abusive or threatening environment.
  • Were abandoned by or estranged from your parents.
  • Are a victim of human trafficking.
  • Your parents are incarcerated and contact with them would pose a risk to you.
  • Are otherwise unable to contact or locate your parents.

Instructions: Complete this form and provide ALL of the documentation requested on the back of this form to support your unusual circumstances.

I certify that all of the information provided on this appeal and the attached documents is true and complete.

***Be sure you have included the required documentation listed on the back of this form before submitting***

For Financial Aid Office Use Only

Required Documentation:

You must complete the front of this form and attach the following documentation:

  1. Personal Statement: Provide a letter explaining why you are unable to provide parental information. This letter should provide as much detail as possible to describe your separation from your parents.
    Your statement must explain the following:
    1. Your current relationship with your parents.
    2. The location of both of your parents and when you last had contact with them.
    3. Why you cannot obtain information and/or support from your parents.
    4. Your current living situation and how you are supporting yourself.
    5. This statement must be dated and include a hand written signature.

  2. Third Party Statement: Submit a signed letter from an objective third-party individual who has personal knowledge of your unusual circumstances. Examples include court documents or an official letter, on letterhead from a social worker, psychologist, high school counselor, teacher, clergy, or other professional who confirms that your situation warrants independent status.
    All letter must include details such as:
    1. The relationship between the individual and you and their knowledge of your situation.
    2. The reason why you cannot provide your parent’s information on the FAFSA/why you should be considered independent.
    3. The individual’s name, title or position, phone number, email address, date and hand written signature.

  3. Personal Supporting Letter: Submit a letter from someone who can verify their knowledge of the unusual circumstances.
    The letter must include:
    1. The relationship between the individual and you.
    2. Their knowledge of your situation and a detailed explanation of why you should be considered independent.
    3. The individual’s name, phone number, email address, date and hand written signature.

Return This Form To:

抖阴pro
Attn: Office of Financial Aid
1300 145th Street East
Rosemount, MN 55068

Phone: 651-423-8299 | Fax: 651-423-8779 | Email: finaid@dctc.edu