12 Work-Study Program Qualifications

11. Documentation and verification requirements

Expect your financial aid office to request documentation to verify FAFSA entries or confirm identity and eligibility. Common items include federal tax transcripts, W-2 forms, verification worksheets, photo ID, and proof of residency if state aid is involved. Some students also must confirm selective service registration or provide court documents in special circumstances. If you’re selected for verification, respond quickly: delayed documents can hold up awards. Institutions typically notify students through their official student portal, and you should retain copies of any documents you upload. What to do next: assemble digital and paper copies of tax returns and IDs, watch your student portal for verification requests, and provide requested forms promptly to avoid losing your work-study award.