Program Integrity

Reg.: Schedule 2, s. 1(4), 13(2), 14

Alberta Student Aid may, at any time, request the student to provide additional information or documentation to determine or review a student’s eligibility for student aid.

A review of a student’s eligibility for student aid may be conducted to:

  • ensure accuracy of submitted information
  • verify the student’s eligibility to receive assistance
  • ensure appropriate funding is issued to eligible applicants
  • maintain public confidence in the integrity of the student aid programs.

A student may be required to immediately repay any loans and/or grants that the student was not eligible to receive.

If the student wishes to contest the decision, the student can submit a Level 1: Request for Reconsideration. A Level 1: Request for Reconsideration must be received by Alberta Student Aid within 30 calendar days from the date of the decision.

Penalties

Reg.: Schedule 2, s. 1(4), 8(3)(a)

If a person knowingly makes false statements, misrepresentations, or omissions to obtain student aid, Alberta Student Aid may impose the following conditions:

  • restrict the student from further student aid for one to three years, and/or
  • restrict the student from further student aid until all amounts have been repaid.

Conviction

Student Financial Assistance Act, s. 15 Reg.: Schedule 2, s. 8(3)

A student may be subject to conviction under the Student Financial Assistance Act if the student intentionally and for the purpose of obtaining student aid:

  • makes a false statement or misrepresentation
  • gives false or misleading information, or
  • fails to provide required information.

The student may be fined up to $5,000.

The student:

  • will be restricted from further student aid until all amounts have been repaid, and
  • may be restricted from further student aid for one to three years.

If a pardon is granted, these conditions may be changed or removed.

In certain cases, charges may also be laid under the Criminal Code of Canada.