Selection for Verification

Verification is the process of checking Student Aid Report data against actual Federal income tax returns and statements documenting household size, number in college and untaxed income. The Federal processor marks SARs to be verified with an asterisk next to the EFC number. Students are also told in their SAR cover letter that they have been selected for review. The Federal government requires schools to verify at least 30 percent of their applications. In addition, schools may select more by their own edits, and some schools have a policy of verifying 100 percent.

If you are selected for review, realize this is a common process. Its goal is to maintain an accurate and fair need analysis. Respond promptly to your school's request for copies of Federal income tax returns, W-2's, Verification Worksheet (2008-2009) and other data. Failure to provide data will result in delays, and possible cancellation of Federal aid.

Verifications are handled by college student financial aid offices; don't send documentation to the Federal processor. If errors are found, the financial aid officer will help you make necessary corrections--most generally with an electronic process that only takes a few days. You will receive a new SAR Information Acknowledgement from the Central Processor so you know what corrections were made. Corrections could affect financial aid estimates that were sent to you earlier. If your awards change significantly, the Financial Aid Office will send you a revised Award Letter.