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How to Appeal & Reinstate Financial Aid

Financial Aid

If you’ve lost your financial aid due to not meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP), you may be able to file an appeal for reinstatement. Appeals are only accepted for extenuating circumstances and must be submitted by the posted deadlines for each term.

Who Can Appeal?

You may be eligible to appeal if you did not meet SAP requirements due to one of the following extenuating circumstances:

  • Illness or injury (student or immediate family)
  • Death of an immediate family member
  • Emotional/mental health challenges
  • Loss of employment
  • Natural disaster or other personal emergency
  • Enrolled in a high-unit academic program

Note: Submitting an appeal does not guarantee reinstatement of your financial aid. Be prepared to cover your expenses while your appeal is under review.

Steps to File a SAP Appeal

  1. Complete the SAP Appeal Quiz
    Required before submitting your appeal.
  2. Download and Fill Out the SAP Appeal Form
    Forms are available from the Financial Aid Office or your college’s website. Use the correct form for the term:

  3. Write a TYPED Statement
    In one page, explain:

    • What caused you to fall below SAP
    • What has changed that will help you succeed going forward
  4. Attach Supporting Documentation
    Your documentation should clearly support your claim:

    • Medical issue: Doctor’s note with dates of illness
    • Death in family: Death certificate or obituary
    • Mental health issue: Counselor’s letter
    • Job loss: Employer letter with dates
    • Disaster: Insurance claim or third-party verification
  5. Include a Comprehensive Educational Plan
    • If you don’t have an official plan, submit an unofficial one for now.
    • Schedule an appointment with a counselor to create your official plan.
    • You must submit the official version within 30 days of your appeal.

Submission and Review Process

  • Submit all materials to the Financial Aid Office before the posted deadline for the term.
  • Incomplete appeals (missing quiz, documents, or plan) will be denied.
  • Allow up to 30 days for review by the Financial Aid Director or designee.
  • You will be notified of the decision via your YCCD student email.

Appeal approvals are not retroactive. If approved, aid is reinstated starting the semester the appeal is accepted.

Need Help?

Contact your campus Financial Aid Office or visit the website for more information.