Completing the FAFSA Verification Process

Issue/Question

How to complete the verification process

Environment

• FAFSA
• Financial Aid

Cause

The U. S. Department of Education or The University of South Dakota may select your financial aid application (FAFSA information) for review in a process called verification. Selections for verification may be made randomly or to resolve any inconsistencies or errors made on a FAFSA application.

Resolution

1. USD Verification Policy
   1. In accordance with federal guidelines, USD will withhold the awarding of Federal Student Financial Aid until the verification process is considered complete
   2. This policy ensures that the information provided by the Federal Processor and your aid eligibility determination is correct before any funds are awarded
2. Download the current year's verification forms from USD Verification
3. Consequences of Failing to Complete Verification
   • Pell Grant Program:
     • Forfeiture of the Pell Grant for the award year
   • SOG, Stafford Loan and Work-Study programs:
     • USD will withhold subsequent disbursements of Stafford Loan and SEOG funds 
     • discontinue your employment under the Work-Study Program
     • withhold certification of any further Stafford Loan applications
   • All programs:
     • USD will take the necessary steps to secure repayment of aid funds already disbursed to you for which you have been determined to be ineligible