As an institution that receives Title IV federal financial aid, the University is required to follow certain rules set forth by the U.S. Department of Education in order to continue to receive these funds. Several years ago, the U.S. Department of Education expanded the definition and reach of prohibited “misrepresentations” by Institutions to students, prospective students, their families, any member of the public, a state agency, an accrediting agency, or the Department of Education. This rule includes “any statement that has the likelihood or tendency to deceive or confuse” regarding 1) the nature of a program; 2) the nature of financial charges; and 3) the employability of graduates. Misrepresentations can be made through any communication, whether written, visual, oral or through other means and can be made by either the University or any representative of the University.
In order to assist with institutions regarding these requirements, the National Association of College and University Attorneys (NACUA) has recommended the following:
- Review all written materials for accuracy of information, including catalogs, marketing materials, websites and correspondence
- Remind employees of what they can and cannot say to students, prospective students and any member of the public
- Review and tighten requirements on any third parties who may represent the University to students, prospective students and the public
For questions, please feel free to contact Kimberly Fearney at (860) 486-6195 or kim.fearney@uconn.edu. For more information regarding the U.S. Department of Education’s Program Integrity Rules please refer to the following website: http://www.federalregister.gov/articles/2010/10/29/2010-26531/program-integrity-issues.
For more information, contact: Kim Fearney at 486-6195