What are the common reasons applications are denied? How do I avoid them?

1. Missing Tax Documentation 
   Applicants must submit a 1040 form and a W-2 or 1099 to verify AGI and income. 

• • If you don’t have a W-2 or 1099, explain why in the Missing Documents section.

  • Pro Tip: If your 1040 includes W-2 or 1099 info, mention the page number in your rationale. 

2. Missing Financial Aid Information 
   Applicants must submit financial aid documents that include: 

• • Student name,

  • School name,

  • Cost of attendance, 

  • Award date,

  • Total award amount. 

• • If you didn’t attend school last year, say so in the Missing Documents section.

  • If you attended but didn’t receive aid, provide a letter from your financial aid office or a rationale.

  • Note: FAFSA summaries and 1098-Ts don’t meet requirements.

  • Pro Tip: Schools vary — you may need multiple files or screenshots. 

3. Incorrect Tax Documents  

• • Submitting tax transcripts or state tax returns,

  • Using the wrong tax year,

  • Missing pages,

  • Blurry or incomplete scans.  

  • Pro Tip: Confirm your form says 1040 and the correct year at the top. Use a scanner or app for clear images. 

4. No ADEA AADSAS Account 
Applicants must create an ADEA AADSAS account. 

• Pro Tip: The portal opens May 13 — register by June 1. 
  Don’t submit school choices until June 13. Funding must be used by July 13. 

5. AGI Above Guidelines 
Applicants must double check eligiblity. ADEA follows the 300% federal poverty level to determine eligibility. 

• If you're over but have special circumstances, explain and provide documentation. 

• We encourage close-call applicants with extenuating situations to apply.