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OSAC MONTHLY NEWSLETTER

Office of Student Access and Completion (OSAC)

May 22, 2026

FAFSA Identity Fraud Detection System

Earlier this month, the U.S. Department of Education implemented a new real-time identity fraud detection system within the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). As applicants complete the FAFSA, the system automatically evaluates identity risk. Most applicants will not experience any changes in their FAFSA filing experience.

A small number of applicants will be asked to verify their identity during the FAFSA application process by providing government issued identification (such as a driver’s license, passport, tribal ID card, or permanent resident card) via a live camera check. This step must be done on a mobile phone or tablet with a functioning camera. Applicants will have a short window to retrieve their ID, but the process must be completed at that time and cannot be paused or returned to later.

How to Help Applicants

• Have Identification Ready: Encourage applicants to have their government issued ID available when beginning a new FAFSA in case identity verification is required.
• Ensure Camera Access: Applicants should have access to a mobile phone or tablet with a camera.
  
  • Those starting the FAFSA on a desktop computer will be given a QR code to continue the verification process on a mobile device. They may use any device and will not need to log in again or re-enter previously submitted information.
• Gather Contact Information: If the applicant needs to follow up with a college financial aid office, ensure they have the correct contact information. Confirm that they have completed any additional steps required by the institution.

Oregon Tribal Student Grant 2026–27 Priority Deadline: September 30 The 2026–27 Oregon Tribal Student Grant is open for eligible Oregon tribal students attending Oregon colleges and universities. The priority deadline to apply is September 30. Eligible students who submit a complete application packet by this date will be considered for full eligibility. Students who apply after the deadline may still receive an award as funds allow. Application Information To apply for the Oregon Tribal Student Grant, both new and renewal students must submit the following: The 2026–27 FAFSA or ORSAA The Oregon Tribal Student Grant application including: The Tribal Enrollment Verification Form  Any other requested information Eligibility Information To be eligible for the Oregon Tribal Student Grant students must be: An enrolled member of one of the nine federally recognized tribes in Oregon Be enrolled or accepted for enrollment at an Oregon college or university Have completed a 2026–27 FAFSA or ORSAA Additional eligibility information can be found on the Oregon Tribal Student Grant website.

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