Verification

The federal government requires each college or university to verify, or confirm, the data reported by some students and their parent(s) on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).  The verification process ensures that all students receive the appropriate amount of financial aid. Approximately 30% of all Kent State University students are selected for verification each year.

How can I tell if my FAFSA has been selected for the verification process?

If the student's FAFSA was selected for verification, the One Stop for Student Services will notify the student through a paper letter, email and/or their FlashLine account. Required documentation usually includes, but is not limited to:

  • Verification Worksheets
  • Student’s signed copy of Federal IRS Income Tax Return or Tax Transcript
  • Parent's signed copy of Federal IRS Income Tax Return or Tax Transcript

Typically, students can expect to receive notification of being selected for verification within 10-14 business days after Student Financial Aid receives the student's FAFSA results from the federal processor. If requested, all verification forms can be found on our forms page.

What happens after verification is complete?

The verification process generally takes two weeks from the date the One Stop for Student Services receives all requested information. The student will receive notification in FlashLine when all the requirements for verification have been satisfied. After all outstanding requirements are complete, the student will receive a notification via their Kent State email address (new freshman will receive a paper award letter and email) of all financial aid awards. If the student was already awarded federal or state financial aid and their financial aid eligibility changes as a result of verification, the student can review the changes to their financial aid awards on FlashLine.

Please contact the One Stop for Student Services with any questions or concerns.