The American Council on Education (ACE) has taken positions on two issues of interest to financial aid administrators.
In a letter to campus presidents, ACE references the current large call-up of reservists and National Guard members, many of them students. The letter reminds schools that "During previous call-ups, institutions responded with policies that returned tuition, provided for course completion at later dates, and otherwise showed flexibility to ensure that no service member suffered a loss of funds or educational opportunity because he or she was called to serve our country. "
The letter goes on to say, "In the fall of 2001 in response to the terrorist attacks, the U.S. Department of Education directed lenders and higher education institutions to provide relief from student loan obligations by postponing student loan payments for borrowers called to active duty service. Additionally, the Department urged colleges and universities to provide full refund of tuition and other institutional charges, and encouraged flexible re-enrollment options for affected students. The federal government has never legislated in this area, in part, because of the cooperation and sensitivity shown by higher education institutions in assisting these students.
"While it may be difficult for some campuses, this is one important way that we can support our students in their efforts to fulfill their military commitment."
In a letter to state governors, ACE asked that military personnel and/or their dependents based in their states be treated as "residents" for the purpose of tuition at public colleges and universities.
Posted February 20, 2003 on www.NASFAA.org, Web Site of the
National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators
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