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Home Training & Events NASFAA Training Self-Study Guides Verification: 2025-26

Verification: 2025-26

2025-26 Verification Self-Study Guide

Verification is the process used by the institution to check the accuracy of the information the student and, in the case of a dependent student, the student’s parents, provided when applying for Title IV federal student aid via the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Information is verified by obtaining documentation such as tax returns/transcripts, identification cards, signed statements/worksheets, etc. attesting to the accuracy of the information. Verification ensures the accuracy of data used to establish eligibility for need-based federal student aid. This self-study guide explains the various aspects of verification, the data elements to be verified, and the documents required to complete the process.  Completion of this self-study guide qualifies individuals to take the corresponding NASFAA Professional Credential test.

Upon purchase, you'll have access to the e-Reader version, and/or download the PDF from the NASFAA website.

Free (Event/Course attendees, Value Members, and Value Plus Members)
$119.00 (Members)
$228.00 (Non-Members)

Published April 2025

Learning Objectives

Lesson 1: Introduction to Verification

  • Understand the principles of verification;
  • Know when verification is required and for which Title IV programs;
  • Know what data elements must be verified;
  • Identify verification tracking groups; and
  • Understand verification documentation requirements for each data element.

Lesson 2: Changing Applicant Data

  • When corrections must be reprocessed via the FPS;
  • What an update is and when it can be made;
  • Professional judgment and authority to use it; and
  • When the PJ Flag must be set (for more than just PJ).

Lesson 3: Disbursements, Timeframes, Policies and Procedures, and Reporting

  • Understand a school's options for making interim disbursements;
  • Identify other program-specific disbursement requirements;
  • Learn the timeframes and deadlines associated with verification;
  • Understand the consequences of verification tracking group changes;
  • Be aware of the policies and procedures a school should have in place regarding verification; and
  • Understand verification-related reporting requirements.
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