Some University officials seem uncertain about details regarding recent allegations that the University overcharged the federal government $6.4 million.

University President Joab Thomas said investigation continues, but that no one is quite sure what was included in the $6.4 million.

"It'll be several months before it's all worked out," Thomas said.

Student Trustee E.J. Shaffer said the federal government auditors failed to elaborate on specific details.

"They said nothing, it's just a figure," Shaffer said. "It could be valid, it could be invalid."

But a spokesman for the Defense Contract Audit Agency, located in Alexandria, Va., said findings should be available to the University.

"They should be well aware what these exceptions are," the spokesman said.

Records audited include those from 1986 and 1990.

The University will adjust future overhead rates to deal with any overcharging costs, Thomas said, adding that he doubts it will affect tuition. The current overhead rate is 45 percent.

Examples of unallowable costs are advertising, public relations, alumni activities and commencement exercises, Thomas said in a recent explanatory letter to the University Board of Trustees. He added that federal auditors are searching these areas, as well as looking into trustee lodging, meals, travel and the upkeep of the president's home.