Term Notification of Reduced Unit Load Accommodation and Financial Aid Implications for Students with Disabilities

Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), students with documented disabilities may be eligible to take a reduced unit load as a reasonable accommodation.

If you are approved for a reduced unit load accommodation or considering it, please read the following:

Financial Aid Eligibility

• You may be eligible for certain financial aid awards while on a reduced unit load accommodation. However, eligibility criteria vary depending on the type of aid and your enrollment status. Aid amounts may be prorated.
• You are strongly advised to consult with the Financial Aid Office to determine how a reduced unit load will affect your specific award package.

Potential Impacts

• A reduced unit load will extend the time it takes to complete your degree.
• Some scholarships or aid programs may require full-time enrollment (typically 12+ units).
• Falling below half-time status may affect loan deferment, health insurance eligibility, and academic progress standards.
• Federal Financial Aid is reduced by the percentage (%) of reduction from 12 units (9 units = 25% reduction in aid) per Federal policy.

Action Required

• Schedule an appointment with the Financial Aid Office to review your award.
• Continue to monitor your Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) to remain aid eligible.
• If you are not currently approved for this accommodation and want to be considered, request a meeting with a DSPS Specialist.