Parent Waiver

To be considered for Medical Program Need-Based institutional financial aid, students are required to submit financial information from both biological or adoptive parents.
The Office of Financial Aid understands that extenuating circumstances may make it impossible to obtain information from both parents. In such cases, students may request a waiver of the parental information required.

Request are reviewed on a case-by-case basis and must include appropriate documentation.

* While all financial Parent Waivers are carefully reviewed, submitting a request does not guarantee approval

Examples of Circumstances That May Warrant a Waiver of Parent Information

  • Documented history of physical or emotional abuse or neglect
  • No contact with the parent for an extended period
  • Legal orders restricting the parent’s involvement (e.g., restraining orders or sole legal custody)
  • Incarceration of the parent
  • Verified inability to locate or contact the noncustodial parent
  • Death of the parent (if not already reflected in the application)
  • Other situations beyond the student’s control

Examples of Circumstances That May NOT Warrant a Waiver of Parent Information

  • Student does not live with the parent(s)
  • Student demonstrates total self-sufficiency
  • Parents are unwilling to provide their information
  • Parents refuse to contribute to the student’s education
  • Parents do not claim the student as a dependent for income tax purposes

Financial Aid Parent Waiver Process and Expectations

To request parent waiver please follow steps below:

Step 1: Initiate process by contacting Office of Financial Aid

Step 2: Review 2025-2026 Request for Waiver of Parental Information form to gather required documents for review

Step 3: Complete and upload your parent waiver form and supporting documents* via financial aid portal, NetPartner (accessible via LEARN)

    • Select Menu→ Documents & Messages to complete and upload requirements

*Documentation is key. Please provide a detailed breakdown of the relationship with your parent(s). Include relevant details, dates, and references that support your situation.

Incomplete or insufficient documentation cannot be considered and may be denied.

Parent Waiver requests are typically processed within 7–10 business days after all required documentation has been submitted.

Contact Information

Office of Financial Aid

1300 York Avenue, Room C-114
New York, NY 10065
Telephone: (646) 962-3479
Fax: (212) 746-5981

finaid@med.cornell.edu

Book a Meeting with a Team Member Here!

Hours of Operation

Monday through Friday
Office Hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm

Note: At this time all appointments are virtual unless requested otherwise.