FAFSA Verification Efficiency Act

H.R. 7893 proposes to amend the Higher Education Act to improve how the federal government verifies information from students and families applying for federal student aid. Specifically, the bill would allow the Education Secretary, working with the Social Security Administration, to verify Social Security numbers and citizenship status of anyone applying for federal student aid through existing database matching systems. Supporters argue this would help reduce fraud and improper payments in federal student aid programs while streamlining administrative processes. However, the bill has drawn concerns from higher education groups and some lawmakers about privacy implications. Critics worry that verifying citizenship status for all contributors—including parents and other family members—goes beyond what is necessary for determining aid eligibility, as current law only requires citizenship verification for those applying for Parent PLUS loans. They also raise concerns about the administrative burden on colleges and universities that would need to manage this verification process. The bill advanced out of committee on a 19-13 party-line vote in March 2026 and now awaits consideration by the full House.