Cal State LA understands that many students and families may experience changes after submitting their financial aid application. If your family has experienced a loss of income or other significant changes in circumstances, we want to make sure you understand the steps you can take. Each appeal is reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Incomplete appeals will be denied.
Student Aid Index (SAI) Appeal
Students and families currently experiencing a significant reduction in income may be eligible to file an SAI Appeal. This appeal allows Financial Aid and Scholarships to review and update the information on your FAFSA or CADAA so it more accurately reflects your family's current financial circumstances and ability to contribute to your Cost of Attendance.
If you (the student) are currently ineligible for financial aid, submitting an appeal will not change your eligibility status. Please note that approval of an SAI Appeal is not guaranteed. Students be prepared to cover their university balance, regardless of the outcome of the appeal.
Circumstances that allow for an SAI Appeal:
- Loss of income or benefits
- Separation or Divorce
- Death of a parent
Cost of Attendance Appeal
Students and families facing higher medical/dental, dependent care expenses, or other expenses that are impacting academic progress may qualify to submit a Cost of Attendance Appeal. These costs can lead to an adjustment in your Cost of Attendance (COA). However, an increase in your COA does not affect your eligibility for need-based grant awards.
Circumstances that allow for a COA Appeal:
- Out of Pocket Medical/Dental Expenses
- Dependent Care Expenses
- Computer Expenses
Unusual Circumstance Appeal
Students who indicated on their Financial Aid Application that they have an Unusual Circumstance that warrants a re-evaluation of their dependency status, can submit an Unusual Circumstance Appeal. The following circumstances are not unusual circumstances and will require you to provide parental information on the FAFSA or CADAA.
- Your parents do not claim you as a tax exemption;
- Your parents do not support your choice of academic major or courses;
- Your parents do not want to participate in paying for your educational costs;
- Your parents feel that they are unable to contribute toward your costs.
- You are financially independent of parents
How to submit an Appeal
Log into Student Forms, self assign yourself the indicated appeal and submit all documentation required. Refer to the