Federal regulations require some FAFSA applications to be selected for a process called verification. If selected, students must provide additional documentation before federal financial aid eligibility can be determined.

Verification requirements vary by student and are based on guidance issued by the U.S. Department of Education. Depending on the verification group assigned, Emerald Coast Technical College (ECTC) may request documentation such as:

• Verification worksheets

• Identity and Statement of Educational Purpose documentation

• Proof of high school completion status

• Household information, when applicable

• Income documentation when required by federal regulations

• Documentation to resolve conflicting information

Students and contributors who successfully provide consent for the transfer of federal tax information may not be required to submit tax returns or tax transcripts unless conflicting information exists.

Deadlines and Consequences

Requested documentation should be submitted within 30 days of notification.

Federal financial aid cannot be disbursed until all required verification documents have been received and reviewed.

Failure to submit requested documentation by the applicable deadline may result in cancellation or loss of financial aid eligibility.

For questions regarding verification requirements, students should contact the Financial Aid Office.