OUT-OF-STATE DISTANCE EDUCATION COMPLAINT POLICY

PURPOSE

The purpose of this policy is to ensure compliance with the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) by outlining grievance and consumer protection procedures for out-of-state distance education students.

STATEMENT OF POLICY

This policy outlines the grievance process and consumer protection options for students enrolled in out-of-state distance education programs, in compliance with the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA). This section ensures that all out-of-state distance education students are informed about their rights and the proper steps to resolve any issues under the SARA framework.

• Internal Complaint Procedures
  Students are encouraged to first use the institution’s internal grievance procedures to address any concerns. These procedures are available here.
• Impact of SARA on Out-of-State Distance Education Students
  SARA provides consumer protection for out-of-state distance education students. However, SARA policies do not cover complaints related to academic grades, student conduct violations, or matters of academic judgment. Students with concerns in these areas should follow the institution's internal grievance process or relevant department policies.
• Appeal Process to SARA State Portal Entity
  If a student feels that their grievance has not been adequately resolved, they may appeal the institution's decision to the SARA State Portal Entity in New York State within two years of the incident that led to the complaint. The contact information for the State Portal Entity is:

  Office of College and University Evaluation
  Attn: Supervisor of Higher Education Programs
  89 Washington Avenue
  Room 960 EBA
  Albany, NY 12234
  Phone: 518-474-1551
  Email: IHEAuthorize@nysed.gov

• NC-SARA Complaint Process
  For additional guidance on the SARA complaint process, students can visit the NC-SARA student complaint page here.
• New York State Education Department Complaint Procedures
  Students who wish to file a SARA-related complaint with the New York State Education Department may do so by visiting the following link: SARA-Student Complaint Process