Special Circumstance Guidelines

Missouri State University's Office of Student Financial Aid aims to address all students' financial needs. To the extent allowed we will consider life changes which render the information on your Free Application of Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) inaccurate (e.g., a recent and significant loss of income). Special circumstances are reviewed on a case-by-case basis, with the judgment of the administration serving as the final decision. This process does not guarentee a change in financialaid eligibility, nor will it extend balance payment due dates. You are responsible for your account balance.

Review the guidelines below before submitting the Special Circumstance appeal. There are separate applications for Dependent students and Independent students.

Submitting a Special Circumstance appeal does not guarantee any change of your financial aid award. Because of this, you are responsible for your Missouri State University account balance. Students with a Student Aid Index (SAI) between -1,500 and 0 should not submit a Special Circumstance appeal as no aid increases can be made.

Action will be taken when the Office of Student Financial Aid receives all requested documentation, supporting summaries, and a complete and signed Special Circumstance appeal. To help with processing, please write the students BearPass Number on all submitted documents.

Important Dates

  • November 13, 2026 - Fall semester deadline to submit the 2026-2027 Special Circumstances appeal and supporting documents
  • April 1, 2027 -  Final deadline to submit the 2026-2027 Special Circumstances appeal and supporting documents

Special Circumstances Include:

  • Job loss or change in income during the 2025 tax year
  • Parent’s permanent and total disability in 2025
  • Excessive medical expenses paid out of pocket in 2025
  • Death or divorce of a parent/spouse listed on the 2026-2027 FAFSA
  • One-time income included on the 2026-2027 FAFSA (lottery winnings, inheritance, settlement, etc.)

Apply for Appeal