The phrase refers to the act of providing false or misleading information on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), often discussed within online communities like Reddit. Examples of such misrepresentation include underreporting income, misstating assets, or falsely claiming independent student status. These actions are intended to increase eligibility for financial aid.
The motivation behind falsifying FAFSA information often stems from the desire to make higher education more affordable. However, the practice carries significant risks. Historically, the FAFSA form has been subject to verification processes, and providing inaccurate information can lead to serious consequences. Such consequences include ineligibility for financial aid, repayment of disbursed funds, and potential legal penalties, depending on the severity and intent of the misrepresentation.
