Fraud

There are difficult situations where students and/or parents purposefully misrepresent information in hopes of obtaining additional assistance. The FAO is required to have a policy of referral when confronted with actual or suspected cases or fraud and abuse.

Policy for Fraud

Students and parents who willfully submit fraudulent information will be investigated to the furthest extent possible. All cases of fraud and abuse will be reported to the proper authorities.

Procedures for Fraud

If, in an Aid Administrator's judgment, there has been intentional misrepresentation, false statements, or alteration of documents which have resulted or could result in the awarding or disbursement of funds for which the student is not eligible, the case shall be referred to the Director for possible disciplinary action. After investigating the situation, if the Director believes there is a fraudulent situation, all information must be forwarded to the Office of the Vice President of Student Affairs, Office of the President, University Legal Consul, and the Office of Inspector General of the US Department of Education or the local law enforcement agency.

The Director reviews the student's aid file with the appropriate financial aid staff member and if the decision is made by the Director to pursue the possibility of denying or canceling financial aid, a written request to make an appointment is sent to the student via registered mail. If the student does not make an appointment, the Director may:

• Not process a financial aid application until the situation is resolved satisfactorily;
• Not award financial aid;
• Cancel financial aid;
• Determine that financial aid will not be processed for future years. 
   

All processing of the application or disbursement of funds shall be suspended until the Director has made a determination as to whether the student shall be required to make an appointment. 

Fraudulent situations should be reported to the hotline of the US Department of Education Inspector General at (202) 755-2270 or 1-800-MIS-USED.