Clock Hour Definition 

Under 34 CFR 668.8(k)(2) the Department formally defines what a clock hour program is for undergraduate programs.  If your program meets the definition, then, for Title IV purposes, it is considered a clock hour program and all clock hour requirements apply.  HOWEVER, policy recently clarified that 668.8(k)(2) does NOT apply to non-GE programs.  So it would apply to nondegree programs at all school types and, at for-profit institutions, it would also apply to their degree programs.   

I am stressing this since I know within my region there are some public schools that have been converting degree programs to clock hour programs for Title IV purposes since it met the new clock hour definition.  Based on policy’s new guidance those degree programs at our public institutions would not have to administer Title IV aid in clock hours since they are not considered GE programs. 

Gainful Employment 

This is a reminder that ED will be hosting an upcoming Webinar on adding new GE programs.  This training will take place on September 26, 2011.  Please see the Dear Colleague Letter ANN-11-19 for more information. 

Also, don’t forget that schools will be able to start reporting GE data through NSLDS as of September 26, 2011.  Please make sure your school will be able to gather and report to ED all the required GE data by October 1 (2006/2007-2009/2010 data) and November 15 (2010/2011 data), respectively.  For more information about reporting processes and timeframes please see the GE webpage at http://www.ifap.ed.gov/GainfulEmploymentInfo/index.html. 

Net Price Calculator 

Please don’t forget that all required schools must have a net price calculator up and running on their website by October 29, 2011.  Please see the Department’s NPC webpage for further assistance - http://nces.ed.gov/ipeds/resource/net_price_calculator.asp 

FSA Handbook Changes 

Based on some recent questions I have been receiving, this is just a reminder that our publication group often moves items around or removes information within the FSA HDBK to clarify data or enhance existing sections.  Please remember that just because a line item has been removed does not necessarily mean that the rule no longer applies.  It may have been redundant, or moved to a section better suited to describe the topic.  Any true changes in guidance will usually be accompanied by a CHANGE sign or a NEW sign designation.  And as always, staying up-to-date with the entire FSA HDBK is a must to properly administer aid.