Verifying your FAFSA



FAFSA verification is a process that confirms information provided by applicants on the FAFSA. Some FAFSAs are chosen for verification by the U.S. Department of Education, while others are selected by schools due to discrepancies in data.

FAFSA verification ensures that the information students and parents report is accurate. It also prevents ineligible students from receiving aid by reporting false information, and ensures that eligible students receive all of the aid for which they are qualified.

Why was my FAFSA selected?

There are different reasons that your FAFSA might be chosen in the financial aid verification process. These include:

  • You were chosen randomly.
  • The FAFSA you submitted was incomplete.
  • Your FAFSA contains estimated information.
  • The data you provided on the FAFSA is inconsistent.

If you are selected for FAFSA verification, you must provide any requested documentation. However, not all students selected for verification will have to submit the same documents. You should always save all the records and materials you use to complete your FAFSA. The sooner you verify your information, the sooner you’ll be able to receive financial aid if you’re eligible.