The SORT — June 16: FAFSA Fraud Bill Clears House
Congress moved on student-aid fraud, the 2025-26 FAFSA deadline is two weeks out, and a public university trimmed its catalog under state mandate.
House Passes Bill to Screen Every FAFSA for 'Ghost Student' Fraud
The House voted 249–172 on June 10 to pass the No Aid for Ghost Students Act (H.R. 7892), which would require the Department of Education to screen every FAFSA submission for identity fraud starting October 1, 2026. Applicants flagged as high-risk must verify their identity in person or by live video before a college may release federal aid. The bill now heads to the Senate, where its path is uncertain.
Why it matters: Legitimate applicants flagged in error would face a live-verification hurdle before aid is released — if you receive a fraud-flag notice, act on it immediately rather than waiting.
Source: Congress.gov
2025-26 FAFSA Federal Deadline Is June 30 — Two Weeks Away
The federal deadline to submit or correct a 2025-26 FAFSA is 11:59 PM CT on June 30, 2026. Missing it forfeits access to all federal Pell Grants and loans for the entire award year. Post-deadline corrections are accepted through September 12, 2026 — but only for applications already on file. State and school deadlines have largely passed, but federal aid is still within reach for anyone who files now.
Why it matters: If you haven't filed and plan to start college this fall, filing now is the difference between qualifying for federal grants and loans and getting none.
Source: Federal Student Aid
Where do you stand?
Check your admission chances free →Marshall University Cuts 7 Programs, Expands 5 Amid $10M Deficit
West Virginia's Marshall University announced it will discontinue seven academic programs and strengthen five others after a state-mandated review of demand, outcomes, and delivery costs. The public university is projecting a $10.2 million deficit for fiscal 2026 — down 44% from last year's $18.1 million gap — as enrollment pressure eases but has not reversed.
Why it matters: Students with Marshall on their list should verify their intended major is in a continuing program before enrolling.
Source: Higher Ed Dive
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