Finding 539094 (2024-001)

United States Department of Education Federal Program: Student Financial Assistance Cluster Reference Number: 2024-001 Federal Award Identifiers: P007A239034; P033A239034; P063P236291; P268K246291 Type of Finding: Non-Compliance and Significant Deficiency in Internal Control Compliance Requirement: Special Tests and Provisions – Verification Condition: The College’s Student Verification Policy omitted following elements required by 34 CFR 668.53: 1. A defined timeframe for student applicants to submit requested verification documentation. 2. A policy for notifying applicants of changes to Expected Family Contribution (EFC) or financial assistance resulting from the verification process. 3. A policy for referring fraud cases to the Office of the Inspector General of the Department of Education. Criteria: The College was required to incorporate all provisions of 34 CFR 668.53 into its written verification policies and procedures. Cause: The College did not adopt the required elements in its written policies and procedures. Effect: The absence of required written policies and procedures increased the risk of non-compliance with federal financial aid regulations, potentially leading to ineligible students receiving aid or delays in processing financial assistance.