How do I appeal a Delaware financial aid decision?

To appeal a University of Delaware financial aid decision, you generally need to contact UD’s Office of Student Financial Services and request a review based on changed circumstances. Schools usually reconsider aid when there has been a significant change since the FAFSA or CSS Profile was filed, such as loss of income, job loss, divorce or separation, death of a parent, unusually high medical expenses, or other major financial disruptions. The key is that the change should be documented and substantial, not just disappointment with the original award.

At Delaware, the process typically starts by asking the financial aid office what form or special circumstances procedure they want you to use. Many schools require a written explanation plus supporting documents, such as recent pay stubs, a termination letter, proof of unemployment benefits, medical bills, or a statement explaining reduced income. If your family’s situation changed after filing aid forms, be specific about what changed, when it changed, and how it affects your ability to pay.

A strong appeal is factual and organized. Briefly explain the circumstance, quantify the financial impact if possible, and include documents that match your explanation. For example, if a parent lost a job, include the date of layoff, prior income, current income, and any severance or unemployment information.

It also helps to distinguish between a special circumstance and a professional judgment review. In practice, families often use “appeal” to mean either one, but what schools are really doing is reviewing whether the FAFSA data should be adjusted because it no longer reflects your current reality. Delaware’s aid office can tell you exactly what they need and whether your case fits that process.

If you are appealing, do it as soon as possible, since aid can be limited and reviews take time. Be polite, concise, and realistic: an appeal can lead to more need-based aid, but it does not guarantee a change, especially if the original award already reflects the information the school has on file.