Verification is a review process in which the Office of Financial Aid determines the accuracy of the information provided on the student's financial aid application. 

During the verification process the student and parent will be required to submit documentation for the amounts listed (or not listed) on the financial aid application.  Such documentation may include copies of parent and student tax return transcripts, copies of Social Security benefit statements, among other items. 

Financial aid applications are randomly selected by the Federal processor for verification.  If there is an asterisk next to the Expected Family Contribution (EFC) figure on your Student Aid Report (SAR), your SAR has been selected for verification.  Schools may also select additional students for verification. 

If any discrepancies are uncovered during verification, the Office of Financial Aid may require additional information to clear up the discrepancies.  Northwestern is required by the Department of Education to verify this information before aid can be awarded.