Yale believes that both parents have a responsibility to contribute toward their child’s college education, even if they are divorced or separated. For this reason, we require financial information for both parents to generate a financial aid award. However, we understand that some families may have extenuating circumstances that would require an exception. In such cases, students may petition for a waiver of the noncustodial parent's financial information.
Please note: Submission of the waiver petition does not guarantee its approval. In addition, unwillingness to pay is not sufficient grounds for a waiver approval absent other contributing factors. Need-based aid is a measure of ability, not willingness, to pay for a student's college education.
To petition for a waiver, students should submit the documents listed below using CollegeBoard's IDOC upload service.
- The Noncustodial Parent Waiver Petition form. Students are encouraged to write a personal statement on the last page of the form, providing details of their situation as appropriate.
- A statement from a third party familiar with the student's family situation. It should come from a professional (other than a lawyer) who can verify information about the student/parent relationship. Such statements are often written by a counselor, religious leader, or teacher. Refer to the instructions on the waiver form for details.
- If applicable, any documentation that substantiates or expands upon the family situation, such as restraining orders or other court documents.
If you are unsure what type of documentation to submit with a waiver petition, you can contact Undergraduate Financial Aid, and a financial aid counselor will advise you.
Students whose waiver petitions are approved do not need to resubmit a petition each year. The waiver approval will carry forward throughout the student's undergraduate career.