Student Aid Index (SAI) Changes

Students may submit a Special Circumstances Appeal when significant changes in financial situations fsdasdffdaffect their or their family’s ability to pay for college.

With appropriate documentation, the Financial Aid Office can review and, in certain cases, adjust information on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). These adjustments may impact a student’s Student Aid Index (SAI) to more accurately reflect the family’s current financial situation. 

DBU considers Professional Judgment (PJ) as permitted by the Department of Education for students and parents who have experienced special circumstances and belief that a review of their Student Aid Index (SAI) is necessary.

Special circumstances for an SAI appeal - include but are not limited to:

• Significant loss of income (present income is different than what was reported on the FAFSA)
• Death of a parent or the independent student’s spouse
• Divorce/legal separation of parents/Independent student and spouse
• One-time income removal (e.g. inheritance, IRA distribution, retroactive lump-sum payment)
• Private elementary/secondary school tuition expenses
• Child support reduction or change 
• Alimony reduction or change 
• Non-elective medical/dental expenses not covered by insurance

Examples of what does not qualify as a reason for an SAI appeal – include but are not limited to:

• Parents refuse to contribute to the student’s education.
• Parents are unwilling to provide information on the FAFSA or for verification.
• Parents do not claim the student as a dependent for income tax purposes.
• The student demonstrates total self-sufficiency.
• Year to year fluctuations in income.
• Credit card or other personal debts.
• Standard living expenses.
• Vacation expenses.
• All other discretionary expenses.
• If the Student Aid Index (SAI) calculated from the FAFSA is zero or less.