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Students can apply at any time. Through a rolling admission process, we continually review applications and accept students. Start dates will vary by degree type and academic program. Our admissions teams will work with you to determine the optimal time for you to commence taking classes based on our Academic Calendar. For more information about the admission process, please select the appropriate section below.
- Alvernia University Admissions Procedure on Verification of Identity for Applicants Suspected of Fraudulent Activity (9.17.25)
- Purpose
The University is committed to safeguarding the integrity of its admissions and financial aid processes. While most applicants act in good faith, there are rare cases where individuals may attempt to apply for admission and/or financial aid using false, stolen, or otherwise fraudulent personal information.
This procedure establishes the University’s right to request verifiable identification only in cases where fraudulent activity is reasonably suspected. It ensures that legitimate applicants are not subjected to unnecessary requirements, while protecting the institution, its students, and federal and state financial aid resources from fraud and misuse.
- Scope
This procedure applies to all individuals seeking admission to the University, including undergraduate, graduate, certificate, and non-traditional applicants. It also applies to applicants for institutional, state, and federal financial aid.
- Procedure
General PrincipleThe University does not ordinarily require applicants to submit government-issued identification during the admissions process.
However, if reasonable suspicion of fraudulent activity arises, the University reserves the right to request verifiable identification prior to making an admissions or financial aid determination.
Reasonable Suspicion
Reasonable suspicion may be based on, but is not limited to, the following:
- Inconsistent or conflicting information provided in an application or supporting documentation.
- Repeated or unusual patterns of behavior (e.g., multiple applications linked to the same Social Security number, contact information, IP address, or mailing address).
- Notification from government agencies, accrediting bodies, or financial aid authorities of suspected misuse of personal identity or credentials.
- Credible reports or evidence indicating possible use of a false, stolen, or otherwise invalid identity.
- Verification Process
When suspicion arises:- The applicant will be notified in writing that additional documentation is required.
- Acceptable forms of identification may include, but are not limited to:
- A valid government-issued photo ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport, state-issued identification card, permanent resident card).
- Proof of Social Security number (e.g., Social Security card or government-issued documentation).
- Other documents deemed appropriate by the University’s Office of Admissions or Office of Student Financial Services.
- Applicants will be provided with a reasonable deadline to supply the requested documents.
- In person or live/on camera verification may be required.
- Failure to provide acceptable verification may result in denial of admission, withdrawal of an admission offer, or cancellation of financial aid eligibility.
- Confidentiality and Data Security
- All submitted documents will be handled in strict accordance with University data security policies and applicable federal and state privacy laws, including FERPA.
- Identification records will be securely stored, accessed only by authorized personnel, and disposed of in compliance with University record retention and destruction requirements.
- Appeal Process
Applicants who are denied admission, enrollment, or financial aid based on failure to verify identity may appeal in writing to the Office of Admissions within 15 business days of notification.
Appeals will be reviewed by a designated committee composed of representatives from Admissions, Student Financial Services, and the Office of Compliance. The applicant will be informed in writing of the final decision.
- Enforcement
The University reserves the right to:- Deny admission, cancel enrollment, or revoke financial aid awards if fraudulent activity is confirmed.
- Refer suspected cases of identity theft or fraud to the appropriate federal, state, or local authorities for further investigation.
