<p>The kid plans to apply SCEA to Princeton (high reach but that's her dream so ok). That means we have to submit the Fin Aid form by Nov also, meaning we will have to use last year's financial info.</p>
<p>My question for those who are familiar with their FA form - is there a way to explain if last year's income is not typical? </p>
<p>I don’t recall the form specifically, but from my experience the Princeton FA office is open to considering any unusual circumstances, and is very flexible in its approach.</p>
<p>Thanks @sherpa!</p>
<p>The last item on the FA application is a section called “Comments and Explanations” and the directions say “Use the area below to provide additional information you think is relevant to your application for financial aid. For example, you might give more detail about family income or other items from the application, or describe a special circumstance that affects your family’s finances.”</p>
<p>Aid is always based on the prior year, so the numbers are what they are. If next year drops, the subsequent years aid is based on that number. </p>
<p>The financial aid a student receives for 2015-16 will be based on the actual income figures for 2014. Even though you submit information in November, it will be confirmed/updated via the federal income tax filing for 2014.</p>
<p>Thanks guys! That’s good to know!</p>