About the Government Affairs Updates series
As the federal policy landscape continues to shift rapidly, potential impacts on higher education, and Metropolitan State University of Denver in particular, are top-of-mind. MSU Denver’s Office of Government and External Affairs, in partnership with University Communications and Marketing and experts from across the University, is providing timely, transparent and clear information through this series of Early Bird Q&A articles. Visit the Government Affairs website for more information and updates.
Q: What are the U.S. Department of Education’s new identity-verification requirements for those who submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, and what should MSU Denver students know?
A: This summer, some students applying for financial aid may be asked to verify their identity before receiving their financial-aid package. It’s part of an expanded effort by the U.S. Department of Education to prevent financial-aid fraud.
If selected, students will need to show a valid, government-issued photo ID in person or through a live video call. The goal is to ensure that the person applying for aid is who they claim to be.
The Department of Education is expected to establish a new verification process for all FAFSA applicants this fall with the goal of reducing the number of applicants requiring manual verification by universities.
Q: Why is this being implemented now, and which students will this requirement impact?
A: These new measures were introduced due to a sharp rise in financial-aid fraud attempts, such as the use of stolen identities and fake applicants created with artificial intelligence, known as “ghost students,” to illegally access federal funds.
For now, expanded verification will focus on first-time FAFSA filers who are enrolled in summer courses. Only certain students who meet these criteria will be asked to verify their identity.
Resources and support amid shifting policies
To assist students and employees in navigating the evolving federal landscape – and to support wellbeing in general – MSU Denver has compiled a list of campus and community resources. These offerings are intended to provide emotional, professional and practical support as our community faces uncertainty and works through potential impacts together.
