DEAC Exhibits Guide — Evidence & Inspector Preparation

66 compliance items across 6 standards · general preparation reference

How to use this guide

  1. Work standard by standard; each item lists the evidence required, the question an inspector may ask, and a suggested response.
  2. Bracketed values like [location] or [date] are prompts — fill them with the institution's own specifics.
  3. File the supporting exhibit, then cite it by number from the Self-Evaluation Report.
I
Ethics & Integrity
9 compliance items
▶
I-1FERPA Annual Notification — distributed to all enrolled students at least once per academic year▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Copy of annual FERPA notification; distribution method (email/LMS/catalog); date of last distribution

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How and when do you notify students of their FERPA rights each year?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

We distribute the FERPA annual notification to all enrolled students at the start of each academic year via [email/LMS]. The notice informs students of their right to inspect records, request amendment, and consent to disclosure. Documentation of distribution is maintained in [location/folder].

I-2FERPA Release of Records — written consent procedure documented and consistently applied▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Signed FERPA release consent forms; sample records request log; denial record (if any)

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Walk me through what happens when a third party — such as a parent or employer — requests a student's academic records.

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

All third-party requests must be accompanied by a signed FERPA consent form from the student. Requests are logged with requester identity, date, and records released. We do not release records without written consent except under FERPA-permitted exceptions (e.g., school officials, subpoenas). Log is at [location].

I-3Student Right to Inspect and Amend Records — formal process documented▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Student Records Access Policy; sample inspection request form; documented response within 45 days

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What process does a student follow to request inspection of or challenge information in their academic record?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Students submit a written inspection request to the Registrar. We provide access within 45 calendar days as required by FERPA. If a student believes a record is inaccurate, they may submit a written amendment request. If denied, they have the right to a hearing. Our policy and forms are at [location].

I-4Non-Discrimination Policy — published in catalog, handbook, and enrollment agreement▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Non-discrimination policy statement; catalog page reference; website screenshot

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Where is your non-discrimination policy published, and what does it cover?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Our non-discrimination policy is published on page [X] of the student catalog, in the student handbook, on our website, and in the enrollment agreement. It covers race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, and religion consistent with applicable federal and state law. Complaints are directed to [office/title].

I-5ADA / Section 504 Accommodations — policy documented and accessible to students▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Accommodations policy; sample accommodation request form; sample accommodation letter to faculty

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How does a student with a documented disability request academic accommodations?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Students submit documentation of disability to [Disability Services Office/Registrar]. We review and issue an accommodation letter to the student and relevant faculty within [X business days]. Our accommodations policy is published in the student handbook at [page/location] and on our website.

I-6State Authorization / Institutional Licensure — current for all states where students reside▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

State licensure certificate(s); NC-SARA membership confirmation (if applicable); list of enrolled student states

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Are you authorized to offer distance education to students in every state represented in your enrollment?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

We are members of NC-SARA through [state portal], which covers students in all SARA member states. For non-SARA states, we hold individual state authorization for [list states]. Copies of all authorization documents are on file at [location]. Our current enrollment shows students in [X] states.

I-7Student Grievance / Complaint Policy — formal process documented and accessible▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Written grievance policy; complaint log showing all complaints received, investigated, and resolved

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How does a student file a formal complaint? Can you show me your complaint log?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Students may file a grievance by submitting a written complaint to [Registrar/Student Affairs]. All complaints are logged with receipt date, nature of complaint, investigation steps, resolution, and outcome date. We aim to resolve complaints within [X days]. Our grievance policy is in the student handbook at [page]. DEAC's contact information is also provided to students as required.

I-8Anti-Harassment / Student Conduct Policy — documented and enforced▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Student code of conduct; anti-harassment policy; disciplinary procedures; sample disciplinary action record

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Where is your student code of conduct published, and what happens when a violation is reported?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Our student code of conduct and anti-harassment policy are published in the student handbook at [page]. Violations are reported to [title/office] and investigated per our procedures. Outcomes range from warning to dismissal. We maintain a confidential disciplinary record at [location].

I-9DEAC Institutional Profile — current and accurate; change reporting policy in place▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

DEAC accreditation file; institutional profile screenshot; change reporting policy

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Is your institutional contact information, program list, and enrollment data on file with DEAC current?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Our DEAC institutional profile was last updated on [date]. We have a substantive change reporting policy that requires notification to DEAC within [X days/90 days] of any substantive change including new programs, ownership changes, or key personnel changes. Our policy is at [location].

III
Programs & Curricula
14 compliance items
▶
III-1Credit Hour Policy — Carnegie Unit compliance documented (1 credit = 45 total student hours)▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Written credit hour policy; course syllabi showing contact hours + out-of-class hours per credit; 34 CFR §600.2 compliance

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How do you define a credit hour and how do you verify that each credit-bearing course meets the federal definition?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Our credit hour policy, adopted per 34 CFR §600.2, defines one credit as 45 total student hours (1 hour contact + 2 hours out-of-class × 15 weeks, or equivalent). Each syllabus documents this breakdown. Our policy is at [location] and was last reviewed on [date].

III-2Program Requirements — published in current catalog for each program you offer▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Current academic catalog/handbook; each program's required courses, credits, GPA requirements, capstone requirements

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Where can I find the full graduation requirements for each program you offer?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

All program requirements are published in our current student catalog [version/date] at [location/URL]. Each entry lists required courses, total credit hours, minimum GPA (3.0), capstone requirement, and maximum time to completion. Catalogs are archived by academic year.

III-3Maximum Time to Completion — per-program policy documented▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Policy statement in catalog/handbook; advisory notice to students approaching limit

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What is the maximum time a student has to complete each program, and how are students notified as they approach that limit?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Our policy permits a maximum of [X years] to complete each program from initial enrollment. Students approaching the limit receive a written advisory at [Y months/semesters] before expiration. This policy is in the catalog at [page] and enforced through the SAP monitoring process.

III-4Academic Calendar — published and accessible to all students▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Current and prior year academic calendars; evidence students received/accessed calendar

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How do students access the academic calendar, and how far in advance is it published?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Our academic calendar is published in the student catalog, on our website, and communicated to all enrolled students via [email/LMS] at least [X months] before the term begins. It includes add/drop deadlines, withdrawal dates, grading deadlines, and holidays.

III-5Course Withdrawal / Drop Policy — documented with clear deadlines and grade implications▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Policy in catalog/handbook; sample withdrawal form; evidence of consistent application

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What is your course withdrawal policy and how does a student initiate a withdrawal?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Students may withdraw from a course by [deadline] with a grade of W. After [date], a grade of WF (Withdraw/Fail) is assigned and impacts GPA. Withdrawals are initiated by [process]. Policy is in the catalog at [page]. All withdrawals are documented in the student record.

III-6Transfer Credit Policy — documented, consistently applied, maximum credits stated per program▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Transfer credit policy; per-program maximum credits; sample transfer evaluation forms (approved and denied)

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How do you evaluate and award transfer credit, and what is the maximum a student can transfer in for each program?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Transfer credits are evaluated by [Registrar/Department Chair] using our written policy. Maximums: HMA = 9 credits, MBA = 12 credits, CIS = 9 credits. Credits must be from an accredited institution, graduate-level, and grade B or better. Evaluations are documented and kept in the student file.

III-7Transfer Credit Evaluation Procedure — documented with multi-step process▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Transfer credit request forms; sample completed evaluations; approval signatures on file

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Walk me through a transfer credit evaluation. Who reviews it and what documentation is required?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Students submit transcripts and course descriptions. The Registrar conducts an initial review for accreditation status and comparability. Department chairs review course content. Final approval is signed by [title]. All decisions are communicated in writing within [X days]. Records are in the student file.

III-8Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) Policy — documented or formally stated as N/A▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

PLA policy in catalog/handbook; OR written statement that PLA is not offered

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Do you award credit for prior learning or professional experience, and if so, how?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Our institution [does/does not] award credit for prior learning. [If yes: Our PLA policy is published at [location] and covers documentation requirements, evaluation criteria, and maximum credits.] [If no: Our policy states that all required credits must be earned through enrolled courses.]

III-9Student Learning Outcomes (CLOs) — documented for all courses in all programs▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Course syllabi for all active courses showing CLOs; CLO–PLO alignment matrix (Exhibit III-A)

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How do course-level learning outcomes align with program-level outcomes, and where is this documented?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Every course syllabus includes measurable CLOs using Bloom's Taxonomy action verbs. CLOs are mapped to PLOs in our curriculum alignment matrix (Exhibit III-A). This matrix shows I/R/M progression — Introduced, Reinforced, Mastered — across the course sequence.

III-10Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) — documented for each program you offer▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

PLO statements for each program; PLO–ILO alignment; assessment plan for PLOs

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What are the learning outcomes for each of your programs and how do you measure whether students achieve them?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

PLOs for each program are published in the catalog and on program pages. PLOs map to Institutional Learning Outcomes (ILOs). Each PLO has an assessment measure (embedded assessment, rubric, capstone evaluation). Results are reviewed annually and used for curriculum improvement.

III-11Capstone / Culminating Experience — requirement documented per program▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Capstone policy; capstone course syllabi (HMA690, MBA690, CIS690); grading rubrics

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What is the capstone requirement for each program and how is student work evaluated?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Each program requires a capstone as the final course (HMA690, MBA690, CIS690). Capstones integrate and apply knowledge from across the program. They are evaluated using a standardized rubric with [criteria]. Scores are reviewed by the faculty of record and [program director]. Rubrics are at [location].

III-12Course Prerequisites — documented in catalog and enforced in registration system▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Catalog showing prerequisites per course; evidence prerequisites are enforced (e.g., system block or manual review)

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Are course prerequisites enforced, and how do you prevent students from enrolling out of sequence?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Prerequisites are listed in the course catalog for applicable courses. The LMS/SIS [enforces prerequisites automatically / requires registrar approval for exceptions]. Override requests must be approved in writing by [Academic Affairs/Registrar]. All overrides are documented.

III-13Academic Freedom Policy — faculty members have freedom to teach within course parameters▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Academic freedom policy in faculty handbook; documentation that policy is communicated to faculty

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Do you have an academic freedom policy for faculty?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Our academic freedom policy is published in the faculty handbook at [page]. It affirms that faculty have freedom in research, teaching methodology, and academic discourse within the scope of their courses and institutional standards. Faculty receive a copy of the handbook at onboarding.

III-14Satisfactory Completion Standards — passing grade and grading scale documented per program▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Grading scale in catalog; minimum passing grade; GPA impact table; sample grading policy

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What is the minimum passing grade for each program, and how is the grading scale communicated to students?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

The grading scale and minimum passing grade (C or 2.0 for undergraduate; B or 3.0 for graduate) are published in the student catalog at [page] and in each course syllabus. Students below the minimum are assigned a Fail/Unsatisfactory and the course counts against SAP.

IVA
Admissions
12 compliance items
▶
IVA-1Admissions Requirements — per-program requirements documented in catalog/handbook▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Current catalog showing admissions requirements for each program you offer; checklist of required documents

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What are the admissions requirements for each program, and where are they published?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Admissions requirements for each program are published in the current catalog: HMA requires [bachelor's degree, GPA, resume, etc.]; MBA requires [bachelor's degree, work experience, etc.]; CIS requires [bachelor's degree, technical background, etc.]. Requirements are also on our website and in promotional materials.

IVA-2Admissions Requirements — consistently applied to all applicants without exception▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Admissions decision log; sample approved and denied applications; evidence of standard process

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How do you ensure admissions requirements are applied consistently to every applicant?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

All applications are reviewed against the same documented criteria. A standardized admissions checklist is used for every applicant. Any exceptions require written justification from [title] and are documented in the applicant file. Our admissions decision log shows all decisions with reasons.

IVA-3Enrollment Agreement — contains all required DEAC disclosures before enrollment is finalized▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Sample enrollment agreement (current version); signed enrollment agreement from sample student files

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Can you show me your enrollment agreement? Walk me through the required disclosures.

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Our enrollment agreement contains: program name and total cost, payment schedule, cancellation/refund policy (with 3-business-day cooling-off), FERPA notice, technology requirements, SAP policy, grievance procedure, and DEAC accreditation status. All agreements are signed before the student accesses coursework.

IVA-4Enrollment Agreement — signed by BOTH student AND authorized institutional representative▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Sample signed enrollment agreements showing both signatures; date comparison (signed before enrollment)

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Are your enrollment agreements signed by both the student and an authorized representative of the institution before enrollment?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Yes. Every enrollment agreement requires the student's signature and the signature of an authorized representative (Registrar or Director). Agreements are executed before the student is granted access to any coursework. Signed copies are retained in the student file.

IVA-5Cancellation / Refund Policy — clearly stated in enrollment agreement with required timeframes▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Refund policy in enrollment agreement; refund calculation examples; sample refund transaction records

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What is your refund policy and how is it communicated to students before enrollment?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Our refund policy is stated in the enrollment agreement on page [X]. Students may cancel within 3 business days of signing for a full refund. After that, a pro-rata refund applies based on the percentage of the program completed. Refund calculations are shown in the agreement with examples. Policy complies with state and DEAC requirements.

IVA-6Technology Requirements — disclosed to students before enrollment is finalized▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Technology requirements statement in enrollment agreement and/or catalog; evidence students receive this before signing

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How do you inform students of the technology they will need before they enroll?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Technology requirements (computer specs, internet speed, required software, LMS access instructions) are disclosed in the enrollment agreement and on our website. Students are directed to review these before signing. Our LMS login instructions are provided after enrollment agreement execution.

IVA-7Student Identity Verification — documented procedure for verifying identity at enrollment▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Identity verification policy; acceptable ID types; verification log; sample verification records

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How do you verify that the person enrolling is who they say they are?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

All students must provide a government-issued photo ID (passport, driver's license, national ID) before enrollment is finalized. The Registrar reviews and logs the ID type, number (masked per FERPA), and verification date. For international students, a passport is required. Our policy is at [location].

IVA-8International Admissions Requirements — documented and applied consistently▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

International admissions policy; credential evaluation requirement; NACES agency list; sample international file

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What additional requirements apply to international applicants, and how do you evaluate foreign credentials?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

International applicants must provide a credential evaluation from a NACES-approved agency (e.g., WES, ECE). We require an official transcript, passport copy, and English proficiency documentation if applicable. Evaluations confirm US degree equivalency before admission. Our policy is at [location].

IVA-9Admissions Denial Procedure — documented with written notification to denied applicants▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Admissions denial policy; sample denial letter; record of reason for denial in applicant file

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What happens when an applicant is denied admission? How are they notified and what recourse do they have?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Denial decisions are communicated in writing within [X days]. The letter explains the reason for denial and any steps the applicant may take (e.g., appeal, re-apply after meeting requirements). Denial records are retained in the applicant file for [X years]. Our denial policy is at [location].

IVA-10Conditional Admissions Policy — documented if used; conditions tracked to completion▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Conditional admissions policy; sample conditional admission letter; tracking log for condition completion

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Do you offer conditional admission? If so, how are conditions tracked and when does full admission become effective?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

[If used:] Students admitted conditionally must satisfy [conditions] within [timeframe]. Conditions are documented in the admission letter and tracked in the student record. Students are notified in writing when conditions are met or if conditions are not satisfied by the deadline. [If not used:] We do not offer conditional admission.

IVA-11Admissions Document Checklist — consistently used for all applicants▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Standardized admissions checklist; completed checklists from sample student files

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What documents are required at the time of admission, and how do you track that all required documents have been received?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

A standardized admissions checklist is used for every applicant. Required documents include: [list]. The checklist is completed and filed in the student's admissions file. No student is fully enrolled until all required documents are on file or a documented exception is approved in writing.

IVA-12Recruiting Materials — accurate, consistent with catalog; no false or misleading claims▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Sample marketing materials (brochures, website screenshots, social media); comparison to catalog claims

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Do your recruiting and marketing materials accurately represent your programs?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

All recruiting materials are reviewed by [Compliance/Administration] before publication. We ensure that cost, program length, outcomes claims, and accreditation status are accurate and consistent with the catalog. We retain copies of all marketing materials with approval dates.

IVC
Student Records
12 compliance items
▶
IVC-1Permanent Academic Records — maintained for ALL enrolled, withdrawn, and graduated students▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Student records system description; sample records for active, withdrawn, and graduated students; records inventory

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How do you maintain permanent academic records, and can records be accessed for students who enrolled years ago?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

We maintain permanent academic records in [SIS/LMS name]. Records include enrollment history, grades, transcripts, and all academic actions. Physical files are kept at [location]. We can produce records for any student from [start year] onward. A records inventory is maintained at [location].

IVC-2Records Retention Schedule — minimum 5 years; transcripts and degree records kept permanently▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Written records retention schedule; evidence it is followed (file samples from 5+ years ago)

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What is your records retention schedule, and how long do you keep each type of record?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Our records retention schedule is documented at [location]. Permanent retention: transcripts, degree records, diplomas, enrollment agreements. 7-year retention: financial records, grade change logs. 5-year: correspondence, application files. Schedules comply with FERPA and state law. Last reviewed [date].

IVC-3FERPA Policy — published in student handbook/catalog; annual notification sent▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

FERPA policy text in current catalog/handbook; annual notification sample and distribution log

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Where is your FERPA policy published and how do you ensure students know their rights?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Our FERPA policy is published in the student handbook at [page] and referenced in the enrollment agreement. An annual FERPA notification is sent to all enrolled students at the start of each academic year via [email/LMS]. A copy of the most recent notification and distribution log is at [location].

IVC-4Access Controls — documented policy for who may view, modify, or delete student records▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Access control policy; SIS user access log; roles and permissions documentation

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Who has access to student records, and how do you prevent unauthorized access or modification?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Access to student records is role-based. Only [Registrar, Academic Advisor, Financial Aid, senior admin] roles have access to records per their job function. Access is granted by [IT/Registrar] and reviewed annually. All modifications to records are logged with user, timestamp, and change. Policy is at [location].

IVC-5Secure Storage — physical and electronic records secured against unauthorized access▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Physical security description (locked cabinets, access-controlled room); electronic security (password, encryption, backup)

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How are physical and electronic student records secured?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Physical records are stored in locked filing cabinets in the Registrar's Office, accessible only to authorized staff. Electronic records are stored in [SIS/cloud system] with password protection, role-based access, and [encryption/SSL]. Server backups run [daily/nightly] and are stored [off-site/cloud]. Our security policy is at [location].

IVC-6Disaster Recovery / Backup — documented plan for electronic records▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Disaster recovery plan; backup schedule; evidence of backup testing

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What happens to student records if your system experiences a failure or disaster?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

We have a disaster recovery plan at [location]. Electronic records are backed up [daily] to [cloud/off-site]. Backups are tested [quarterly]. In case of failure, records can be restored within [X hours]. Physical records are duplicated in [fireproof storage/off-site].

IVC-7Official Transcript Policy — issuance procedure, timeline, and fee documented▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Transcript policy; sample official transcript; evidence of timely issuance (log)

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How does a student or employer request an official transcript, and how quickly is it issued?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Transcript requests are submitted to the Registrar via [written request/online portal]. We issue official transcripts within [5–10 business days] of receiving a complete request. A fee of [$X] applies. Transcripts are sent directly to the requester per FERPA. We do not issue transcripts for students with outstanding financial obligations. Policy is at [location].

IVC-8Grade Change Policy — multi-level approval documented; log maintained▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Grade change policy; completed grade change request forms; approval chain evidence

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What is your grade change policy and who has authority to change a grade after it is submitted?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Grade changes require: (1) faculty initiation with written reason, (2) department chair review, (3) Registrar approval. Grades may not be changed more than [X semesters/1 year] after original submission without Dean approval. All changes are logged with original and new grade, reason, and each approver's signature. Log is at [location].

IVC-9Student Handbook / Catalog — current version published; prior versions archived▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Current student handbook/catalog with publication date; 2–3 years of prior versions; evidence students receive it

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How do students receive the student handbook, and how do you handle students who enrolled under a prior catalog?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

The current catalog [version] is published at [URL] and provided to all new students at enrollment. Prior year catalogs are archived at [location]. Students are governed by the catalog in effect at their enrollment date unless they elect to switch to a current catalog in writing. Catalog year is noted in each student record.

IVC-10Student Name / Address Change Procedure — documented; IDs updated in all systems▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Name/address change form; policy on legal documentation required; log of changes

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How does a student update their personal information, and how do you ensure consistency across all institutional systems?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Students submit a [name/address change form] with supporting documentation (legal name change requires court order or government ID). The Registrar updates all systems including [SIS, LMS, financial aid, email]. Change effective date is recorded. Policy is at [location].

IVC-11Data Breach Notification Policy — documented procedure for notifying students and authorities▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Data breach notification policy; contact information for notification (state AG, DEAC, students)

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What is your procedure if a student data breach is discovered?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Our data breach policy (at [location]) requires notification to affected students within [X days], notification to DEAC within [72 hours/as required], and notification to [state AG/applicable authorities] as required by state law. Response includes containment, assessment, and remediation steps. Policy was last reviewed [date].

IVC-12Enrollment Verification — official enrollment verification letters available to students▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Sample enrollment verification letter; procedure for requesting one; timeline

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How does a student obtain an official enrollment verification letter (e.g., for a visa, employer, or loan deferment)?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Students request enrollment verification letters through [Registrar portal/written request]. Standard letters are issued within [2–5 business days] and include enrollment status, program, full/part-time status, and expected graduation date. Expedited requests are available within [24 hours]. Letters are signed by the Registrar.

IVDE
Advising & Student Services
10 compliance items
▶
IVDE-1Academic Advising Policy — formal advising available to all students; policy documented▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Advising policy in handbook/catalog; advisor assignment records; sample advising session documentation

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What academic advising is available to students, and how do they access an advisor?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

All enrolled students are assigned a primary academic advisor at enrollment. Advisor contact information is provided in the welcome email and student record. Students may contact their advisor via [email/phone/virtual meeting]. The advising policy, including frequency of contact and scope, is in the student handbook at [page].

IVDE-2Degree Plans — on file for all enrolled students; advisor-signed▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Sample degree plans for each program; evidence all active students have a signed degree plan

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Can you show me a degree plan for an enrolled student? Who signs off on degree plans?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Each student's degree plan is developed with their advisor during the first semester and signed by the student and advisor. Degree plans are maintained in the student file and updated when changes occur (e.g., course substitutions, LOA). Plans are reviewed at each advising contact.

IVDE-3SAP Policy — published in catalog/handbook; minimum GPA 3.0; completion rate ≥67%▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

SAP policy in current catalog; separate SAP policy document; annual notification to students

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What are your SAP requirements, and where are they published for students to review?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Our SAP policy requires: (1) minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA for all graduate programs, (2) course completion rate of at least 67% of attempted credits, (3) completion of program within maximum time frame. The policy is published in the catalog at [page] and referenced in the enrollment agreement. Students are informed of SAP at orientation/enrollment.

IVDE-4SAP Evaluation — conducted at end of every semester for all enrolled students▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

SAP evaluation records for last 2–3 semesters; evidence all students were evaluated

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

When and how is SAP evaluated? Can you show me SAP records for the most recent semester?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

SAP is evaluated for all enrolled students at the end of each semester. The Registrar reviews GPA and completion rate data from [SIS]. Students meeting SAP are recorded as Good Standing. Those who do not meet SAP receive written notification within [X days] of semester end. Records are in [SAP tracker/location].

IVDE-5Academic Warning Process — documented; written notice issued within required timeframe▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Warning letter template; sample warning letters issued; student acknowledgment records

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What triggers an academic warning, and what happens next?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

An academic warning is issued when a student's semester GPA falls below 3.0 for the first time, or completion rate drops below 67%. Warning letters are issued within [X days] of semester end and include: current GPA/completion rate, required improvement, consequences of continued non-compliance, and available support resources. Student acknowledgment is required and documented.

IVDE-6Academic Probation — formal notice issued; conditions and timeline clearly stated▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Probation letter template; sample probation letters; student acknowledgment; probation log

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What are the conditions and duration of academic probation? Can you show me a sample probation letter?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Academic probation is placed when a student fails to meet SAP for two consecutive semesters, or in severe cases, immediately. Probation letters state: (1) effective date, (2) required GPA/completion rate to be removed from probation, (3) probationary period (typically one semester), (4) consequences of not meeting conditions, (5) available support. Letters are sent certified mail and via email. Student must acknowledge receipt.

IVDE-7Academic Dismissal Policy — clear criteria, procedure, and written notification▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Dismissal policy; sample dismissal letter; appeal rights documentation; dismissed student records

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Under what circumstances is a student academically dismissed, and what rights does a dismissed student have?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Academic dismissal is initiated when a student on probation fails to meet SAP conditions within the probationary period. Dismissal letters state the reason, effective date, and the student's right to appeal within [X days]. Students may appeal to [Dean/Academic Committee]. If dismissed, enrollment is suspended and a hold placed on the record. Policy is at [location].

IVDE-8Academic Reinstatement — criteria and procedure documented▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Reinstatement policy; sample reinstatement application; reinstatement approval letters; conditions of reinstatement

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Can a dismissed student be reinstated, and what are the conditions?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

A dismissed student may apply for reinstatement after [one full semester/1 year] by submitting a written reinstatement request explaining changed circumstances. The request is reviewed by [Academic Committee/Dean]. Reinstatement may be conditional (e.g., required GPA first semester back, specific courses). Approvals are documented in writing and filed in the student record.

IVDE-9Leave of Absence Policy — documented; maximum duration; financial aid and SAP impact stated▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

LOA policy in handbook; maximum LOA duration; sample LOA approval letters; LOA tracking log

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What is your leave of absence policy? How long can a student take, and what happens to financial aid and SAP?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Students may request an LOA for medical, personal, financial, or military reasons. Maximum LOA is [two consecutive semesters]. LOA requests are submitted in writing to the Registrar with documentation. Approved LOAs do not count against the SAP timeframe. Financial aid is [adjusted/suspended] per [policy]. Students returning from LOA must re-enroll by [date/process]. Policy is at [location].

IVDE-10Student Support Services — academic support available and communicated to students at risk▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Description of academic support resources (tutoring, advising, writing center, etc.); evidence at-risk students are referred

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What academic support services are available to struggling students, and how are they connected to those services?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Students on academic warning or probation are automatically referred to [academic support services] including [tutoring, writing assistance, advising appointments, study skills workshops]. Referrals are documented in the student record. Our support services are described in the student handbook at [page] and at [URL].

VII
Student Achievement & Satisfaction
9 compliance items
▶
VII-1Outcomes Assessment Plan — documented institutional effectiveness cycle▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Written outcomes assessment plan; evidence of annual data collection, analysis, and use

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Describe your outcomes assessment process. How do you use data to improve your programs?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Our institutional effectiveness plan [at location] establishes an annual cycle of: (1) setting measurable goals, (2) collecting data (graduation rates, GPA, satisfaction, PLO attainment), (3) analyzing results, (4) identifying gaps, (5) implementing improvements, (6) evaluating effectiveness of changes. The cycle is documented in our annual institutional effectiveness report.

VII-2Graduation / Completion Rate Data — 3-year data by program (initial accreditation: available cohorts)▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

3-year graduation rate table by program; cohort definitions; data source documentation

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What are your graduation rates for each program over the past three years?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

Our graduation rates by program and cohort are compiled in Exhibit VII-A. [For initial accreditation with limited history:] We have [X semesters/years] of completion data. Our current rates are: HMA = [X%], MBA = [X%], CIS = [X%]. Cohort is defined as students who enrolled in a given year and completed or withdrew within [timeframe]. Data source: [SIS].

VII-3Graduation Rate ≥ 50% — or corrective action plan in place▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Graduation rate calculation; evidence rate meets or exceeds 50%; OR corrective action plan if below threshold

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Do your graduation rates meet the DEAC minimum threshold of 50%? If not, what corrective actions are in place?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

[If met:] Our graduation rates exceed the 50% DEAC threshold for all programs. Documentation is in Exhibit VII-A. [If below:] Our graduation rate for [program] is currently [X%], below the 50% threshold. We have implemented the following corrective actions: [list actions, timeline, responsible parties]. Progress is tracked at [location].

VII-4Student Withdrawal / Non-Completion Rate — tracked and analyzed▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Withdrawal rate data by semester and program; reasons for withdrawal tracked; trend analysis

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How do you track student withdrawals, and what are the most common reasons students leave before completing their program?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

We track all student withdrawals in [SIS] with exit reason codes. Common reasons include [financial, personal, employment, academic difficulty]. Withdrawal data is reviewed each semester by [Registrar/Academic Affairs] and included in the annual IE report. Trends are analyzed to identify systemic issues and inform retention strategies.

VII-5Student Retention / Persistence Rate — tracked semester-to-semester▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Retention rate data (semester-to-semester and year-to-year); definition of retention used

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

What is your student retention rate, and how do you define and measure it?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

We define retention as the percentage of students who enrolled in semester [N] and re-enrolled in semester [N+1]. Data is pulled from [SIS] at the start of each term. Our current semester-to-semester retention rate is [X%]. Year-to-year data is included in the IE report. Retention is reviewed by [Academic Affairs] each semester.

VII-6Graduate Employment / Outcomes Data — tracked where applicable; survey methodology documented▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Graduate outcomes survey; employment/licensure rate data; survey methodology and response rate

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

Do you track what happens to graduates after they complete their programs?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

We conduct a graduate outcomes survey [annually/at graduation] asking about employment in the field, salary range, and program satisfaction. Results are compiled in our annual outcomes report. Response rate is [X%]. For [HMA/MBA/CIS], we track employment in the field at 6 and 12 months post-graduation. Data is at [location].

VII-7Student Satisfaction Data — collected at least annually; results used for improvement▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Student satisfaction survey instrument; results summary; evidence results informed decisions

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How do you measure student satisfaction, and can you give an example of how you used that data?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

We administer a student satisfaction survey [annually/end of each term] covering instruction quality, advising, support services, and LMS usability. Results are compiled in [report] and reviewed by [leadership]. Recent improvements driven by survey data include: [examples]. Survey results are in the IE report at [location].

VII-8Program Learning Outcome Attainment — measured and reported per program▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

PLO assessment results by program; rubric scores; evidence data used for curriculum revision

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How do you measure whether students are actually achieving your program learning outcomes?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

PLO attainment is measured through embedded assessments, capstone evaluations, and rubric scoring. Results are compiled by [Assessment Coordinator] each year. PLOs with attainment below [X%] trigger a curriculum review. Recent changes based on PLO data include: [examples]. Assessment maps and results are at [location].

VII-9Annual Institutional Effectiveness Report — produced and distributed to stakeholders▶
EVIDENCE REQUIRED

Most recent annual IE report; evidence it was reviewed by leadership and board

ANTICIPATED INSPECTOR QUESTION

How does your institution communicate outcomes results to leadership, faculty, and other stakeholders?

SUGGESTED RESPONSE

We produce an Annual Institutional Effectiveness Report each [fall/spring] summarizing: enrollment data, graduation rates, SAP results, PLO attainment, student satisfaction, and corrective actions. The report is reviewed by [President/Board] and shared with faculty. The most recent report is at [location].

Source: DEAC Inspection Checklist — 66 compliance items across 6 standards  ·  General reference prepared by iCyber Enterprises LLC — Your Education Consultant