Financial Aid, Pell Grant and SEOG Problem, What should I do?

Question

I went into so much trouble in my Financial Aid after having family problems. I have to go to court so many times to fight my husband regarding domestic violence, and even dropped from my school because it was too much for me to handle that time. I was so confused how to raise my 5 years old child without a job. I am a student and I have decided that the best way for me to get a job was through “work study program”. However I lied on my resume to get a better job to support my child and declared that I graduated with Bachelor’s Degree in some part of Asia. I was so stupid that I applied in Financial Aid Dept. in my college. Someone inside the office noticed my resume, and told me how I was able to receive PELL GRANT and SEOG knowing that grants is only for undergraduates. They confronted me, and I even said that I was sorry I lied, that I didn’t actually have any degree, which is honestly true. Financial Aid took away my PELL GRANT and SEOG and even wants me to pay it back for almost $5,000, which I am paying $20/monthly right now just to avoid any discussions. I am ok now and my little child, and continuously studying to have a better future. I want to get the PELL GRANT and SEOG back because it will help me a lot rather than paying all my tuition through my loans which is costing me a lot, but I don’t know how. I feel like Financial Aid is holding my resume with my signature on it in my school file as a proof that I got a B.A. which is honestly I don’t have. I learned my lesson well and I had so much regret. I deeply need help and advice how to get my PELL GRANT and SEOG back. Any advice will help me a lot. Thanks.

Answer 1

Unfortunately, when you agree to accept federal funds you are held to certain rules.  If you falsify anything part of your application, then they can take away any funding and require you to pay it all back in full.

I am pretty sure that when you fill out the FAFSA or accept financial aid at a school that you sign or acknowledge something to this effect.

Alternatively, you could try talking to the head of the financial aid stuff or go even higher to a Dean or such.  Honestly, though, I think you might be out of luck.  Sorry!

Answer 2

I actually had a situation like this where the student (Asian) had a degree from an asian country but the degree was not recognized in the US for some reason.  Turns out the student was eligible for federal financial aid.  

Basically the rule is this: unless you can prove that you have a degree (through college transcripts), you do not have one.  Your resume (falsified or not) is not sufficient evidence to cancel your financial aid eligibility.

That said, you may have to appeal to the financial aid director with proof that you do not have a degree or that you have one that is not recognized in the US.  If you are having difficulties, you may contact the Department of Education but generally speaking, in situations like this, they adhere to the school's decision.

I don't know if I was much help but good luck anyway.

Answer 3

You have definitely put yourself in a very unfortunate position. I think that you're actually pretty lucky that no other form of legal action has not taken place. But don't be totally discouraged. Sounds like you're getting your life back on track, so Congrats to you. In the meantime , I would contact the financial aid department and get a phone number or address where you can petition for financial assistance and sincerely apologize for your misconduct. Also, check into other options for financial assistance. Go to:

http://www.schools2colleges.com/financia...