FAFSA
Update:

GCC is now receiving 2026–2027 FAFSA applications. If you've recently submitted your FAFSA, it will typically be received by GCC within 3–5 business days.

Please check your Student Center regularly and complete any outstanding checklist items to help avoid delays.

Request for Special Circumstance (Income) Review

Has Your Income or Your Family's Income Changed?

Your financial situation may have changed since you completed the FAFSA. If you or your family experienced a significant decrease in income, you may request a Special Circumstance (Income) Review.

GCC generally does not use projected income for an uncompleted calendar year. Instead, we review available income and tax information, along with documentation of your change in circumstances.

For the 2026-2027 academic year, GCC will review your 2025 federal tax return. Beginning January 1, 2027, your 2026 federal tax return will also be required if you have filed it.

Each request is reviewed individually. Submitting a request does not guarantee a change to your financial aid eligibility.

Whose Income Is Reviewed? The income reviewed depends on your FAFSA dependency status:

Dependent Student | Your parent(s)' income is used to determine your financial aid eligibility. If your parent's income has significantly changed, your parent should provide documentation of the change.

Independent Student | Your income is used to determine your financial aid eligibility. If you are married, your spouse's income may also be considered.

What Changes May Be Reviewed?

Examples of circumstances that may qualify for a review include:

  • Loss of employment
  • Significant reduction in income
  • Divorce or separation
  • Death of a parent or spouse

Each request is reviewed based on the student's individual circumstances.

What Documents Will I Need? The Special Circumstance Review form will provide instructions on which documents to submit based on your situation.

You may be asked to provide:

  • A written explanation of your circumstance
  • Documentation of your change in income
  • 2025 federal tax return and W-2s, if you have filed your 2025 taxes
  • 2026 federal tax return and W-2s, if you have filed your 2026 taxes
  • Current pay stubs showing year-to-date earnings
  • Other supporting documentation, if needed

When Should I Submit My Request? You must be enrolled for the semester you are requesting a review.

  • Submit your request and all required documents at least 3 weeks before the end of the semester.

To Access the Special Circumstance Form in the Student Center:

  1. Log in to your Student Center using your MEID and password
  2. Click on My Student Forms
  3. Click on Financial Aid Forms
  4. Click on AY27 Special Circumstances

Processing Time| Please allow up to 14 business days for processing after all required forms and documentation have been successfully submitted and received by Financial Aid.

  • Processing time begins once your submission is complete and accurate. Incomplete forms or missing documentation may delay processing. If corrections are required, you will be notified by email, and your processing time may restart once corrections are submitted.
  • Processing times may be longer during peak periods, such as the start of a semester.