An evaluative study was done by the Advisory Committee on Student Financial Assistance of the structure and costs of multiple data entry (MDE) processing for work on applications for higher education financial aid through federal programs. The Committee reviewed reports, met with Department of Education staff, completed a position paper, and received oral testimony and written materials from the student aid community. The Committee formulated recommendations with regard to assessment of the expansion of the number and type of MDEs and the impact on students and families; examination of the standardization of processing fees paid by the Department of Education to MDE contractors; and evaluation of the payment of system development costs associated with delivering MDE services. The findings of the study indicated that the legislature should transform the current Pell MDE contracts into Title IV contracts that would implement a free, common form for federal student assistance; expand the number of MDEs to a level that optimizes services to students and institutions; determine the level and range of processing fees paid to contractors through a revised procurement process; and provide for determination of appropriate, allowable system development costs through normal, competitive processes. Attached are an MDE position paper and a report on an MDE hearing. (JB)