Dependency Override Appeals

If you do not meet any of the criteria to be considered an independent student on the FAFSA, or who are experiencing unusual or extenuating circumstances that prevent them from listing parental information can apply for a Dependency Override Appeal.

You can initiate this appeal through the following steps:

  1. The student should log into the SFS Dashboard.
  2. Click on the red 'Manage Requests' button in the upper right hand corner.
  3. Click on the button for a 2022-2023 Dependency Override Appeal
  4. Provide a brief description of the change
  5. Complete and sign the embedded webform and submit all requested documentation.

Documentation related to the appeal will be requested once the appeal form is completed. We cannot accept this documentation via email or fax. The Dashboard is the most secure and fastest method to submit documentation to our office.

Appeals are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. If approved, it is important to note that the financial aid offer will likely not be enough funding to cover the cost to attend Temple University. It is very possible that additional funding will be needed to assist with the outstanding balance. You can review current year tuition rates via the Tuition Calculator linked to the Costs & Aid tab of TUPortal or at the Bursar's website.

The deadline for submitting a Dependency Override is the last day of classes each term.

Circumstances We Are Able to Consider
  • Voluntary/Involuntary removal from the parents' home due to an abusive situation that threatens the student's mental or physical health.
  • Incarceration of both parents.
  • Incarceration or Death of the custodial parent and the whereabouts of the non-custodial parent are unknown.
  • Whereabouts of both parents are unknown and another person has legal custody of the student.
Circumstances We May Not Be Able to Consider
  • Parent(s) refuse to contribute to the student's education.
  • Parent(s) are unwilling to provide information on the FAFSA or documents for the Verification process.
  • Parent(s) do not claim the student as a dependent for income tax purposes.
  • Parent(s) live overseas.
  • The student is self-sufficient.
Required Documentation
  • A completed electronic Dependency Override Appeal form (completed in the SFS Dashboard) that includes a section for you to provide a personal statement that summarizing the current extenuating circumstances that prevent you from including parental information on the FAFSA. The statement must include the names of both biological parents, relevant dates of contact and all other important details of your situation that will support the appeal.
  • Third Party documentation (someone outside of the family) - signed, typed statement from at least one person outside of your family that has knowledge of your extenuating circumstances. All statements must be uploaded on official letterhead with a signature, contact information, and date
    • Acceptable third parties include, but are not limited to the following:
      • Counselors or Teachers
      • Clergy or Community Groups
      • Government Agencies
      • Medical Personnel
      • Courts or Prison Administrators
  • All other documentation that supports your extenuating circumstance. Please note, the Office of Student Financial Services may request other documentation that is specific to your situation.