HLC Assumed Practices Revisions for Higher Education Accreditation

The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) has revised its Assumed Practices policy (CRRT.C.10.010), with revisions effective September 1, 2025, and further revisions effective immediately on November 6, 2025. These practices are foundational to accreditation and institutions are expected to be in compliance at all times.

HLC Accreditation Policies: Membership Obligations

The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) has outlined its "Obligations of Membership" policy, detailing the voluntary agreements institutions make when seeking or holding HLC membership. This policy specifies requirements for periodic evaluations, reporting, transparency, and notification of significant institutional changes or adverse actions from other bodies.

Revised Federal Compliance Requirements for Educational Institutions

The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) has adopted revised Federal Compliance Requirements for its member institutions, effective September 1, 2026. These revisions update policies related to various aspects of institutional operations and compliance with federal regulations.

Education Dept Corrects Income-Driven Repayment Rules

The Department of Education has issued a correction to its rules regarding income-driven repayment plans for federal student loans. This correction clarifies specific provisions within the existing regulations for the William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program and the Federal Family Education Loan Program.

Program Integrity, Distance Education, and Return of Funds Final Rule

The Department of Education has issued a final rule concerning program integrity, distance education, and the return of Title IV, HEA funds. This rule revises regulations across multiple CFR parts related to institutional quality and student financial aid.

Proposed Rule: Randolph-Sheppard Vending Facilities Program Definitions

The Department of Education has proposed amendments to the definitions and related provisions under the Randolph-Sheppard Vending Facilities Program. This proposed rule aims to update the program's regulatory framework. Public comments are due by March 11, 2025.

Education Department Withdraws Randolph-Sheppard Vending Rules

The Department of Education has withdrawn a proposed rule concerning amendments to definitions and related provisions under the Randolph-Sheppard Vending Facility Program. This withdrawal means the previously proposed changes will not be implemented.

Student Loan Interest Payment Reporting for 2025

Federal Student Aid announced guidance on reporting student loan interest payments for the 2025 tax year. Loan servicers will report interest payments to the IRS on Form 1098-E if a borrower paid $600 or more in interest during the year.

2026-2027 COD Technical Reference and OBBBA Amendments

The U.S. Department of Education has posted a partial 2026-2027 Common Origination and Disbursement (COD) Technical Reference. This notice also addresses amendments from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) that will become effective July 1, 2026, with preliminary information subject to change pending final rulemaking.

EDExpress Software Update for COD Country Code Reporting

The U.S. Department of Education's Federal Student Aid has released an update for EDExpress 2025-26, Release 2.0. This update corrects an issue with reporting U.S. territory country codes to the COD System, ensuring proper data submission for students from these regions.