Unusual Circumstances Appeal

This form is used to confirm and submit additional information to support a student's independent status appeal. 

For this process, you will need the following:

  • A completed FAFSA
  • A letter describing your unusual circumstances
  • Documentation supporting your appeal

View the Unusual Circumstances Appeal form 2026-27

Privacy notice: This information is being requested in order to determine your federal, state, and/or institutional financial aid eligibility at the University of Minnesota and will be viewable by University staff with a business need. Declining to submit the information will prevent the University from finalizing your aid eligibility. You are not legally required to submit the information and/or documentation. However, refusal to do so will result in an incomplete financial aid application, and therefore, you may not receive financial aid for which you applied.

Use this form if...

  • You are unable to contact your parents.
  • Contacting your parents would pose a risk to you

Don't use this form if...

  • You are able to contact your parents without issue.

Next steps

Once submitted, your appeal will take approximately 10–15 business days to process. The outcome of your appeal will be sent to your UMN email address.