Although the process of determining a student's eligibility for financial aid is basically the same for all students, an adjustment sometimes can be made if a student has special circumstances.  Special circumstances may include a reduction in income due to loss of employment, death or disability of a wage earner, divorce or separation, loss of social security benefits, etc.  In extreme circumstances (usually involving abuse or neglect) a student who does not meet the federal definition of an independent student for financial aid purposes may be able to document those exceptional circumstances in order to be considered an independent student.

All requests for special circumstances must be made in writing  and sent to:

       West Virginia University
       Health Sciences Financial Aid Office
       PO Box 9810
       Morgantown, WV 26506-9810