January 5, 2009
Volume 2009– Issue 1

Department of Education Releases HEOA Dear Colleague Letter

Utah Higher Education Assistance Authority announces the December 31, 2008 release by Federal Student Aid (FSA) of Dear Colleague Letter GEN-08-12 which summarizes most of the provisions of the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA).  The HEOA was enacted August 14, 2008, and reauthorized the Higher Education Act (HEA) of 1965, as amended.

The Dear Colleague Letter (DCL) does not change any requirements mandated by the HEOA.  But the summaries provided in the DCL are intended to assist institutions in understanding the changes to the HEA and the effective dates of the numerous requirements.  The HEOA requires implementation of many new provisions before the Department issues detailed guidance.  Therefore, during compliance reviews FSA will take into account any written guidance issued, or, as applicable, the absence of such guidance.  At the end of the DCL is a chart that groups the provisions by effective date.

The Dear Colleague Letter can be accessed on the Information for Financial Aid professionals (IFAP) Web site, at: http://ifap.ed.gov/dpcletters/GEN0812FP0810.html.

Any questions related to this Bulletin should be directed to UHEAA Policy and Training at 801.321.7166, or by e-mail to mjohnson@utahsbr.edu.