Bill would require SSN and citizenship checks for federal student aid applicants
Placed on the calendarH.R. 7893Latest action
Sponsor: Tim Walberg · Representative · MI
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Official title: FAFSA Verification Efficiency Act
119th Congress
Topics: Education
Introduced:
Read the official bill on Congress.govIn plain words
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The bill would make Social Security number and citizenship verification mandatory for federal student aid applicants like those filing the FAFSA.
45-second read · 4 questions answered below
What does this do?
This bill would change Social Security number verification for federal student aid applicants from optional to mandatory under the Higher Education Act. It would require the Secretary of Education to work with the Social Security Administration to confirm both Social Security numbers and citizenship status for anyone applying for aid, and this requirement would override conflicting laws.
Who does it affect?
College students and families who complete the FAFSA for federal grants, loans, or work-study would be affected. The Department of Education, the Social Security Administration, and colleges that process financial aid would also be affected.
Why does it matter?
The change could affect how quickly or smoothly student aid applications are processed, depending on how the mandatory checks are implemented. It shifts verification from a discretionary agency practice to a legal requirement, adding a citizenship-status check that wasn't explicitly required before.
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Where does it stand?
- IntroducedMar 12, 2026
- House committee
- House voteYou are here · Jul 2, 2026
- Senate
- The president's desk
Right now: it was placed on the , and the official record shows no floor action on it since. If the Senate changes it, it goes back to the House before reaching the president.
Latest action: — Placed on the Union Calendar, Calendar No. 635.