What must an institution’s financial aid office do if a student is chosen for verification?

When a student is chosen for verification, the financial aid office must collect and review additional documentation to verify the accuracy of the information provided on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This process is essential because it ensures that the data used to determine the student's eligibility for federal student aid is accurate and complete.

Verification typically involves obtaining specific documents, such as tax transcripts, W-2 forms, or other financial information, to confirm the income and other details that the student reported on their FAFSA. This step helps maintain the integrity of the financial aid system by preventing errors and potential fraud.

While institutions have protocols to communicate with students regarding their status and any documentation needed, the core responsibility during verification is the thorough examination of the provided information to uphold federal requirements. Other options suggest actions that do not align with verification protocols, such as automatic approval or a lack of required follow-up.