Finding Text
2025-006 Eligibility Federal Agency: U.S. Department of Education Federal Program Title: Student Financial Assistance Cluster Assistance Listing No. 84.063, 84.268 Federal Award Identification Number and Year: P063P248567 – 2025, P268K258567 – 2025, P268K256514 - 2025 Award Periods: July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025 Type of Finding: Significant Deficiency in Internal Control Over Compliance Other Matters Criteria or specific requirement: Per Uniform Guidance 2 CFR 200.303, nonfederal entities receiving federal awards are required to establish and maintain internal controls designed to reasonably ensure compliance with federal laws, regulations, and program compliance requirements. Per 34 CFR 690.62 states the Pell grant for an academic year is based upon the payment and disbursement schedule published by the Secretary for each award year. 34 CFR 690.80(b)(1)) states if the student’s enrollment status changes from one academic term to another within the same award year, the institution shall recalculate the Federal Pell Grant award for the new payment period taking into account any changes in the cost of attendance. Condition: The University used a third-party servicer to perform key controls, but did not have documented review of the work performed by their third-party servicer. Additionally, the University incorrectly disbursed Pell funds for 10 students. Questioned Costs: $12,949 Context: During our eligibility testing of 60 students, we identified that the University did not document evidence of review for controls over award packaging performed by their third party servicer. Additionally, out of 43 students receiving Pell, 10 were under awarded. Cause: The University did not have the appropriate resources and staffing in place to verify they were in compliance with all requirements. Effect: Without proper controls the University risks being out of compliance with federal laws and regulations, as well as program compliance requirements. Repeat findings: 2024-007 Recommendation: We recommend the University review its current procedures for awarding Title IV funds and implement any changes necessary to ensure federal funds are awarded and disbursed in accordance with federal regulations. Views of Responsible Officials: There is no disagreement with the audit finding.