What is Professional Judgment?

Navigating the financial aspects of higher education can be as challenging as it is rewarding. For many undergraduate students, the cost of tuition, fees, and living expenses presents a significant hurdle. Fortunately, there's a lifeline available called Professional Judgment (PJ) that can make a profound difference in managing these expenses.

What is Professional Judgment?

Professional Judgment is a process used by colleges and universities to reevaluate a student's financial aid package based on special circumstances not reflected on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA®). It acknowledges that life can throw unexpected curveballs—family financial changes, medical expenses, job loss, or other situations—that might not be captured in the standard aid application.

Why is Professional Judgment Important for Undergraduates?

For many undergrads, the FAFSA® might not capture the full scope of their financial situation. This is where PJ steps in. It provides an opportunity to present a more accurate picture of your financial need, potentially resulting in increased financial aid, grants, or other support.

How Does Professional Judgment Work?

1. Identify Circumstances: Any significant change in financial status or additional expenses should be communicated to the financial aid office. This might include job loss, unexpected medical expenses, changes in family income, or other exceptional situations.
2. Gather Documentation: Supporting documents are crucial. These could be pay stubs, tax forms, medical bills, or any other evidence that supports your claim.
3. Contact Our Financial Aid Office: Provide a detailed explanation of your circumstances and why you are requesting a Professional Judgement. You can submit this explanation by e-mailing it to our office at financialaid@sebts.edu. Please include "Professional Judgment Request" in the subject line.
4. Await an Evaluation: After our office receives your initial request for a Professional Judgment, the scholarship committee will evaluate it and make a determination as to whether to proceed. You will be notified of the committee's decision within one week of making your request, or the committee will request additional information. If approved, we will e-mail you the Professional Judgment form to complete. 
5. Submit Your PJ Forms & Supporting Documentation: Complete the required forms and submit them along with the supporting documents to the financial aid office through a secure web portal (IDOC). You will receive an email from our office & college board with log-in information and uploading instructions.
6. Await a Decision: The scholarship committee will review your submitted forms and documentation, then our office will notify you of their decision. If approved, our office will process the professional judgment and update your FAFSA® with the new information. We will then notify you of the results and whether there have been any changes to your eligibility and award(s).

Each student will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and requesting a Professional Judgment does not guarantee that it will be performed or that it will result in financial aid.

Tips for a Successful Professional Judgment Appeal:

• Be Transparent: Be honest and straightforward about your circumstances. Providing accurate and complete information is essential.
• Submit Documents Promptly: Timely submission of necessary documentation expedites the review process.
• Follow Up: If you haven’t heard back within a reasonable timeframe, don’t hesitate to follow up with our office.

Final Thoughts

The Professional Judgment process serves as a vital tool for undergraduate students facing unexpected financial challenges during their academic journey. It underscores the understanding that circumstances can change and aims to ensure that students receive the financial aid they genuinely need.

If you find yourself in a situation where the FAFSA® doesn’t accurately represent your financial standing, consider exploring the Professional Judgment option. It could make a significant difference in alleviating financial burdens and allowing you to focus more on your education and less on financial stress.

We encourage students to contact our office with any additional questions. Students can e-mail at financialaid@sebts.edu, call at (919) 761-2317, or stop by our office in the Ledford Center, Office 103.