Audit 394660

Condition: The University did not report student enrollment data to the National Student Clearinghouse (NSC) within the minimum required timeframe. Criteria: Based on requirements set forth by 34 CFR Section 685.309(b)(2), the University is responsible for notifying the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) to changes to student’s enrollment data within minimum required timeframes. Cause: We noted that the University experienced turnover in the University Registrar/Veteran Certifying Official position, after which the University failed to properly communicate the responsibility for NSC and NSLDS enrollment reporting. Effect: Enrollment data was not reported timely or accurately to the Department of Education thus, the Department could not properly service the student’s loans. The accuracy of Title IV student loan records depends heavily on the accuracy of the enrollment information reported by institutions. Context: From a population of 61 students that withdrew officially during a term, we tested 6 students and noted that 5 of those students’ withdrawals were not timely reported. In addition, batch enrollment reporting was not completed during the fiscal year. Repeat Finding: Yes, see finding 2024-005. Recommendation: We recommend that a review process be put in place to ensure timely and accurate enrollment reporting to NSLDS.

Condition: The University did not consistently distribute disbursement notices to students within the minimum required timeframe. Criteria: Based on requirements set forth by 34 CFR Section 685.165(a)(1-2), the University is responsible for notifying a student of the amount of expected Title IV funds as well as how and when those funds will be disbursed. Additionally, the University must notify the students of their right to cancel all or a portion of that loan disbursement as well as the timeline they must follow to do so. Cause: We noted that the University did not consistently send the required notices to students. Effect: Disbursement notices, including the right to cancel information, were not consistently sent to students. Context: From a population of 976, we tested 29 students and noted that all those students were not sent disbursement notices timely. Repeat Finding: Not a repeat finding. Recommendation: We recommend the University implement procedures to ensure that disbursement notices are consistently sent to students.