So, you've got the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) filled out and submitted. You think everything is going smoothly until you receive a notification saying you have been selected for FAFSA verification. What does this mean?

Verification is a process used to double check the information you provided on your FAFSA to make sure you are considered for the best types of aid you are eligible to receive. Some students are selected for verification by the U.S. Department of Education. Others are selected by the school.

If you are selected for verification, you must provide the requested documentation before you can be awarded. 

Red Rocks Community College will notify you if additional documentation is needed to complete your financial aid file electronically through your secure, RRCC-issued student email account/The Rock student portal.

A completed Verification Worksheet will be needed. To access this form, click here.

Additional documentation may include:

• Signed federal tax return or federal tax return transcript from the IRS
• All W2s for the year requested
• Verification that you/your parents did not file federal taxes during the year requested
• Proof of citizenship
• Additional worksheets/information as required by the financial aid office
• Proof of high school completion
• State or federal identification card

After you turn in all required documents, the Financial Aid Office will process your paperwork within 1-2 weeks.  We may need to request additional documentation and make corrections to your FAFSA.

In order to receive your financial aid offer as soon as possible, it is important to submit your FAFSA before the priority dates listed and to provide accurate contact information with RRCC. Information regarding the status of your paperwork and requests for additional information can be found by accessing your account on the web.

Priority Dates:

• December 1 - to request financial aid for fall semester
• May 1 - to request financial aid for spring semester
• July 15 - to request financial aid for summer semester

The Financial Aid Office will not be able to offer aid to you and may be required to bill previously awarded financial aid if you have not submitted required documentation. You could face a delay in receiving your financial aid and a reduction in the amount of aid you qualify to receive if your paperwork is not completed on time. Financial aid forms are available online here.

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