The U.S. Department of Education (ED) requires colleges and universities to verify certain FAFSA data to ensure federal financial aid is awarded accurately and only to eligible students. This process is called financial aid verification.
If your FAFSA is selected for verification, either by the ED or AAMI, you’ll need to submit additional documentation before aid can be disbursed.
What Is FAFSA Verification?
Verification is a federally mandated review of specific information reported on your FAFSA. You may be selected randomly, or due to discrepancies in your FAFSA.
AAMI may also require additional information beyond the federal minimum to ensure compliance and accuracy.
What You May Be Asked To Verify
If selected, you, or your parent/spouse, may be asked to submit documentation related to:
- Adjusted Gross Income (AGI)
- U.S. income tax paid
- Untaxed IRA distributions and pensions
- IRA deductions and payments
- Tax-exempt interest income
- Education credits
- Income earned from work
- Household size and number in college
- High school completion status
- Identity/Statement of Educational Purpose
AAMI will notify you directly with detailed instructions if additional documents are needed.
How Will I Know If I’m Selected?
If you’re selected for verification, you’ll be notified through both federal and institutional channels. Specifically, you’ll receive:
- A Student Aid Report (SAR) from the U.S. Department of Education stating that you’ve been selected for verification
- A separate email notification from AAMI outlining which documents you must submit and the steps to complete verification
Verification Timeline & What It Affects
The federal deadline to complete verification is the earlier of:
- 120 days from your last date of attendance, or
- The federal cutoff date for the academic year
If you fail to complete verification by the deadline:
- You will not receive federal grants or loans
- Any previously originated loans may be canceled
- Undisbursed loan funds will be returned
- Any overpayment of federal aid must be repaid
- No financial aid refunds will be issued until verification is completed and processed
Tips To Avoid Delays
- Apply for financial aid early to allow time for verification
- Respond to AAMI’s documentation requests as soon as possible
- Review your SAR and AAMI notifications carefully
- Keep digital and physical copies of your tax documents and other income records
Everything You Need To Finalize Your Aid Or Apply To AAMI
Whether you’re responding to a verification request or preparing to enroll, our team is here to assist.