All students are classified for tuition purposes under one of the following residency classifications:

1. Maricopa County resident
2. Out-of-County resident
3. Out-of-State resident (including F-1 non-immigrant students and students on other non-immigrant visas)

Residency for tuition purposes is determined in accordance with state law (ARS §§15-1801et seq.) and regulations of the Maricopa Community Colleges Governing Board. All of the Maricopa Community Colleges are subject to the above statutes and regulations. Students who have questions about their residency should contact the Admissions and Records Office/Office of Student Enrollment Services for clarification.

Implementation

1. An applicant must be eligible to attend post-secondary education in the United States prior to being eligible to register for classes and pay fees.
2. Domicile status must be established before the student registers and pays fees. It is the student's responsibility to register under the correct domicile status.
3. Enforcement of domicile requirements shall be the responsibility of the Chancellor of the Maricopa Community Colleges. The Chancellor has charged the Director of Admissions and Records or other designee at each college to make the initial domicile classification. In determining a student's classification, the college may consider all evidence, written or oral, presented by the student and any other information received from any source which is relevant to determining classification. The college may request written sworn statements or sworn testimony of the student.
4. A request for review of the initial classification may be made to a district review committee. The request must be in writing, signed by the student and accompanied by a sworn statement of all facts relevant to the matter. The request must be filed with the admissions officer of the college within ten (10) days of receipt of notification of classification as a non-resident. Failure to properly file a request for review within the prescribed time limit constitutes a waiver of review for the current enrollment period. The decision of the review committee shall be final.

Definitions

1. “Armed Forces of the United States” means the Army, the Navy, the Air Force, the Marine Corps, the Coast Guard, the commissioned corps of the United States Public Health Services, the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, the National Guard, or any military reserve unit of any branch of the Armed Forces of the United States.
2. "Continuous attendance" means enrollment at one of Maricopa Community Colleges as a full-time or part-time student for a normal academic year since the beginning of the period for which continuous attendance is claimed. Students need not attend summer sessions or other such intersession beyond the normal academic year in order to maintain continuous attendance.
3. "Maricopa County resident" means an individual who lives in Maricopa County and has lived in the state of Arizona for at least one year prior (365 days) to the first day of the semester (as published in the approved MCCCD Academic Calendar posted online at ACADEMIC CALENDARS) and who is a United States citizen or in a lawful status. In-state residency must be established prior to county residency for those moving from other states. Refer to AR 2.2.2.3 Section C for guidelines.
4. "Domicile" means a person's true, fixed, and permanent home and place of habitation. It is the place where he or she intends to remain and to which he or she expects to return when he or she leaves without intending to establish a new domicile elsewhere. Visa status must confer the ability to establish domicile in the United States in order to be classified as an in-state student.
5. "Emancipated person" means a person who is neither under a legal duty of service to his parent nor entitled to the support of such parent under the laws of this state.
6. "Full-time student" means one who registers for at least twelve (12) credit hours per semester.
7. "Part-time student" means one who registers for fewer than twelve (12) credit hours per semester.
8. "Parent" means a person's father, or mother, or if one parent has custody, that parent, or if there is no surviving parent or the whereabouts of the parents are unknown, then a guardian of an unemancipated person if there are not circumstances indicating that such guardianship was created primarily for the purpose of conferring the status of an in-state student on such unemancipated person.

In-State Student Status

1. Except as otherwise provided in this article, no person having a domicile elsewhere than in this state is eligible for classification as an in-state student for tuition purposes. Applicants for in-state tuition status and other public benefits must demonstrate lawful presence in the United States by presenting one of the documents listed in this regulation, under the section "Demonstrating Lawful Presence."
2. A person is not entitled to classification as an in-state student until the person is domiciled in this state for one year preceding the official starting day of the semester, except that a person whose domicile is in this state is entitled to classification as an in-state student if the person meets one of the following requirements:
   
   1. The person’s parent's domicile is in this state and the parent is allowed to claim the person as an exemption for state and federal tax purposes.
   2. The person is an employee of an employer which transferred the person to this state for employment purposes or the person is the spouse of such an employee.
   3. The person is an employee of a school District in this state and is under contract to teach on a full-time basis, or is employed as a full-time non-certified classroom aide, at a school within that school District. For purposes of this paragraph, the person is eligible for classification as an in-state student only for courses necessary to complete the requirements for certification by the state board of education to teach in a school District in this state. No member of the person’s family is eligible for classification as an in-state student if the person is eligible for classification as an in-state student pursuant to this paragraph, unless the family member is otherwise eligible for classification as an in-state student pursuant to this section. Eligibility for in-state tuition is subject to verification of intent to domicile in this state. Determination of residency is made by the Admissions and Records office/Office of Enrollment Services.
   4. The person’s spouse has established domicile in this state for at least one year and has demonstrated intent and financial independence and is entitled to claim the student as an exemption for state and federal tax purposes or the person’s spouse was temporarily out of state for educational purposes, but maintained a domicile in this state. If the person is a non-citizen, the person must be in an eligible visa status pursuant to federal law to classify as an in-state student for tuition purposes.
3. The domicile of an unemancipated person is that of such person's parent.
4. An unemancipated person who remains in this state when such person's parent, who had been domiciled in this state, removes from this state is entitled to classification as an in-state student until attainment of the degree for which currently enrolled, as long as such person maintains continuous attendance.
5. A person who is a member of the armed forces of the United States and who is stationed in this state pursuant to military orders or who is the spouse or a dependent child of a person who is a member of the armed forces of the United States and who is stationed in this state pursuant to military orders is entitled to classification as an in-state student. The student does not lose in-state student classification while in continuous attendance toward the degree for which he or she is currently enrolled.
6. A person who is a member of the armed forces of the United States or the spouse or a dependent of a member of the armed forces of the United States is entitled to classification as an in-state student if the member of the armed forces has claimed this state as the person's state of home record for at least twelve consecutive months before the member of the armed forces, spouse or dependent enrolls in a university under the jurisdiction of the Arizona Board of Regents or a community college under jurisdiction of a community college district governing board. For purposes of this subsection, the requirement that a person be domiciled in this state for one year before enrollment to qualify for in-state student classification does not apply.

7. Per federal law, beginning July 1, 2015, immediate classification as an in-state student shall be granted to a Veteran using benefits under Post-9/11 GI bill® and Montgomery GI bill-active duty, or the Veteran's spouse or child using transferred Post-9/11 GI bill benefits   who lives in Arizona (regardless of his/her formal state of residence) and enrolls in the school within 3 years of the transferor’s discharge from a period of active duty service of 90 days or more.

8. Per federal law, beginning July 1, 2015, immediate classification as an in-state student shall be granted to a spouse or child using benefits under the Marine Gunnery sergeant John David Fry Scholarship who lives in Arizona (regardless of his/her formal state of residence) and enrolls in the school within three years of the service member’s death in the line of duty following a period of active duty service of 90 days or more.
9. Per Arizona state law, a  person who is honorably discharged from the armed forces of the United States on either Active Duty or Reserve or National Guard Status, or who has retired from Active Duty or Reserve or National Guard Status, shall be granted immediate classification as an in-state student on honorable discharge from the armed forces and, while in continuous attendance toward the degree for which currently enrolled, does not lose in-state student classification if the person has met the following requirements:

    A. Registered to vote in this state.

   B. Demonstrated objective evidence of intent to be a resident of Arizona which, for the purposes of this section, include at least one of the following:

         1. An Arizona driver license

         2. Arizona motor vehicle registration

         3. Employment history in Arizona

         4. Transfer of major banking services to Arizona

         5. Change of permanent address on all pertinent records

         6. Other materials of whatever kind or source relevant to domicile or residency status

10. A student using any VA educational benefits who does not otherwise qualify under items above shall be granted immediate classification as an in-state student, and while continuously enrolled does not lose in-state student classification if the person has demonstrated objective evidence of intent to be a resident of Arizona that for the purposes of this section, includes at least one of the following:

    1.       Registration to vote in this state

    2.       An Arizona driver license

    3.       Arizona motor vehicle registration

    4.       Employment history in Arizona

    5.       Transfer of major banking services to Arizona.

    6.       Change of permanent address on all pertinent records

    7.       Other material of whatever kind or source relevant to domicile or residency status. 

11.  A person who is a member of an Indian Tribe recognized by the United  States Department of the Interior whose reservation land lies in the state and extends into another state and who is a resident of the reservation is entitled to classification as an in-state student.

Alien In-State Student Status

1. An alien is entitled to classification as an in-state refugee student if such person has been granted refugee status in accordance with all applicable laws of the United States and has met all other requirements for domicile.
2. In accordance with the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act of 1996 (P.L. 104-208; 110 Stat. 3009-546), a person who was not a citizen or legal resident of the United States or who is without lawful immigration status is not entitled to classification as an in-state student pursuant to ARS §15-1802 or entitled to classification as a county resident pursuant to ARS §15-1802.01. A student will be assessed out-of-state tuition until such time that documentation of status is received in the Office of Admissions and Records/Enrollment Services and (eligibility for) residency is confirmed. Documentation must be provided prior to the end of the term in which residency classification is being requested. Documentation received after the end of term will be used for residency determination in subsequent terms.
3. In establishing domicile, the alien must not hold a visa that prohibits establishing domicile in the United States and this state. After meeting other domicile requirements, students holding valid, unexpired visas in the following categories may be classified as in-state students (See Appendix S-1A):
   • A Foreign Government Official or Adopted Child of a Permanent Resident
   • E Treaty Traders
   • G Principal Resident Representative of Recognized Foreign Member Government to International Staff
   • H H1B and H4
   • K Spouse or Child of Spouse of a U.S. Citizen, Fiancé or Child of Fiancé of U.S. Citizen
   • L Intracompany Transferee, or Spouse or Child
   • N6 NATO-6
   • U, T Victim of Criminal Activity
   • V Spouses and Dependent Children of Lawful Permanent Residents
4. Students who hold a current visa and have submitted an I-485 to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), may establish residency if other domicile requirements have been met. Residency eligibility for I-485 applicants may be considered one year after the date on the USCIS Notice of Action letter (I-797) confirming application for permanent resident status provided their prior visa status is one that allows the visa holder to establish domicile in the United States. Students must provide required residency documentation in addition to the (I-797) Notice of Action for residency consideration. In establishing domicile, the alien must be in a status that does not prohibit establishing domicile in this state for at least one year immediately preceding the official starting date of the semester. In the event that an alien student’s parent is domiciled in this state and is allowed to claim the student as an exemption for state or federal tax purposes (3.c.i.2.a), the student’s parent, in order to establish domicile, must hold a valid, unexpired visa in one of the categories listed in section 3 above. 
5. Students who hold a current or expired visa and have applied for a change of status will retain their immigration status based on their prior visa status and not the status or visa for which they are applying. 

Presumptions Relating to Student Status

Unless there is evidence to the contrary, the registering authority of the community college or university at which a student is registering will presume that:

1. No emancipated person has established a domicile in this state while attending any educational institution in this state as a full-time student, as such status is defined by the community college district governing board or the Arizona Board of Regents, in the absence of a clear demonstration to the contrary.
2. Once established, a domicile is not lost by mere absence unaccompanied by intention to establish a new domicile.
3. A person who has been domiciled in this state immediately before becoming a member of the Armed Forces of the United States shall not lose in-state status by reason of such person's presence in any other state or country while a member of the Armed Forces of the United States

Proof of Residency

When a student's residency is questioned, the following proof will be required.

1. In-State Residency
   
   1. An affidavit signed by the student must be filed with the person responsible for verifying residency.
   2. A combination of the following may be used in determining a student's domicile in Arizona:
      
      1. Arizona income tax return
      2. Arizona Voter registration
      3. Arizona Motor Vehicle registration
      4. Arizona Driver's license
      5. Employment history in Arizona
      6. Place of graduation from high school
      7. Source of financial support
      8. Dependency as indicated on federal income tax return
      9. Ownership of real property
      10. Notarized statement of landlord and/or employer
      11. Transfer of major banking services to Arizona
      12. Change of permanent address on all pertinent records
      13. Arizona Department of Children Services documents related to foster care placement
      14. Other relevant information
2. County Residency
   
   1. A combination of the following may be used to determine a student's county residency:
      
      1. Notarized statements of landlord and/or employer
      2. Source of financial support
      3. Place of graduation from high school
      4. Ownership of real property
      5. Bank accounts
      6. Arizona income tax return
      7. Dependency as indicated on a Federal income tax return
      8. Other relevant information

 

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government.

Detail removed from the appendices on February 23, 2010 as part of the Catalog Common Pages review process. See AR 2.2.4 Item 4 for current information regarding transfer articulation guidelines.

It is unlawful for any non-resident student to register concurrently in two or more public institutions of higher education in this state including any university, college or community college for a combined student credit hour enrollment of more than six (6) credit hours without payment of non-resident tuition at one of such institutions.

Any non-resident student desiring to enroll concurrently in two or more public institutions of higher education in this state including any university or community college for a combined total of more than six (6) credit hours who is not subject to non-resident tuition at the institution of his choice in an amount equivalent to non-resident tuition at such institution for the combined total of credit hours for which the non-resident student is concurrently enrolled.

FY2023-2024 (Adobe Acrobat - Requires Acrobat Reader)

Distance Learning and updated Rio National rates were approved by MCCCD Governing Board on April 25, 2023. 

Special fees were approved by MCCCD Governing Board on February 28, 2023.

Adopted Tuition and Fees approved by MCCCD Governing Board on December 13, 2023. 

FY2022-2023 (Adobe Acrobat - Requires Acrobat Reader)

Adopted Tuition and Fees approved by MCCCD Governing Board on February 22, 2022. 

FY2021-2022 (Adobe Acrobat - Requires Acrobat Reader)

Adopted Tuition and Fees approved by MCCCD Governing Board on February 23, 2021. 

FY2020-2021 (Adobe Acrobat - Requires Acrobat Reader)

Adopted Tuition and Fees approved by MCCCD Governing Board on April 7,2020.

Tuition Discount for Resident and Out-of-State (6 hours or less credits) was approved by MCCCD Governing Board on June 9, 2020.

FY2019-2020 (Adobe Acrobat - Requires Acrobat Reader)

Adopted Tuition and Fees approved by MCCCD Governing Board on February 26, 2019.

FY2018-2019 (Adobe Acrobat - Requires Acrobat Reader)

Adopted Tuition and Fees approved by MCCCD Governing Board on May 1, 2018.

FY2017-2018 (Adobe Acrobat - Requires Acrobat Reader)

Adopted Tuition and Fees approved by MCCCD Governing Board on February 28, 2017.

FY2016-2017 (Adobe Acrobat - Requires Acrobat Reader)

Adopted Tuition and Fees approved by MCCCD Governing Board on February 23, 2016.

FY2015-2016 (Adobe Acrobat - Requires Acrobat Reader) 

Adopted Tuition and Fees approved by MCCCD Governing Board on February 24, 2015. 

FY2014-2015 (Adobe Acrobat—Requires Acrobat Reader)

Adopted Tuition and Fees approved by MCCCD Governing Board on April 22, 2014.

• tuition rates
• fee changes

Effective July 1, 2014, Student Activity fee ($2) will be combined with General Tuition.

Effective July 1, 2014, Out of state surcharge has a new calculation which was approved by the Joint Legislative Budget Committee (JLBC) in May 2014.

FY2013-2014 (Adobe Acrobat—Requires Acrobat Reader)

Adopted Tuition and Fees approved by MCCCD Governing Board on March 26, 2013.

• tuition rates
• fee changes

Effective July 1, 2013, Out of County surcharge has a new calculation

FY2012-2013 (Adobe Acrobat—Requires Acrobat Reader)

Document was updated May 16, 2012 to reflect changes in:

• out-of-county tuition surcharge for Arizona residents in Apache and Greenlee counties (without an Out-of-County Residence Affidavit)

FY2011-2012 (Adobe Acrobat—Requires Acrobat Reader)

Document was updated January 27, 2012 to reflect changes in:

• expanded tuition table to include in-county resident audit rate
• expanded special fees chart to reflect those approved by the Governing Board

Document was updated June 28, 2011 to reflect changes in:

• expanded tuition table to include non-resident study abroad and non-resident distance learning categories

Document was updated May 31, 2011 to reflect changes in:

• out-of-county tuition surcharge for Arizona residents in Apache and Greenlee counties (without an Out-of-County Residence Affidavit)

Document was updated April 7, 2011 to reflect changes in:

• tuition rates (pending out-of-county surcharge, TBD May, 2011)
• fee changes

FY2010-2011 (Adobe Acrobat—Requires Acrobat Reader)

Document was amended on January 11, 2011 to reflect changes in:

• out-of-county surcharge
• addition of fees as needed

FY2009-2010 (Adobe Acrobat—Requires Acrobat Reader)

Document was amended on February 23, 2010 to reflect changes in:

• establishing residency "in county" and "in state"
• clarification of "in county" resident on tuition & fee table

FY2008-2009 (Adobe Acrobat—Requires Acrobat Reader)

Document was amended on May 21, 2009 to reflect changes in:

• out-of-county surcharge
• corporate tuition rate (out-of-state) for training delivered outside the boundaries of Arizona to out-of-state employees of companies which have contracts with the Maricopa Community Colleges
• some childcare fees

Note: a typo was corrected for an in-state/in-county student taking 11 credit hours

 

Additional Information about Financial Aid may be found at www.maricopa.edu/students website.*

The Maricopa Community Colleges provide students financial assistance to enable access to higher education. Student financial assistance shall be awarded on the basis of demonstrated financial need except where funds are specified for recognition of special talents and achievements. Only those with a lawful presence in the United States may qualify for federal financial aid. Under Arizona state law, undocumented students may qualify for Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) scholarships if they meet the terms outlined under Proposition 308.  

The office of financial aid may request to have the validity of a student’s high school completion evaluated if either the college or the United States Department of Education has reason to believe that the high school diploma is not valid or was not obtained from an entity that provides secondary school education. An evaluation may be conducted on the basis of any of the following:

• Alerts, bulletins, or similar communications provided by any state, federal, or other governmental agency, another institution, a professional or similar organization, or any other resource that might provide information helpful to the evaluation;
• A transcript or other record received from another institution the student may have attended;
• The contents of the student’s Free Application for Federal Student Aid, student information form, or any other information the student provides to the college;
• The independent professional judgment by any official of the office of student financial aid.

How to Apply for Federal Financial Aid

New students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or FAFSA on the web at Federal Student Aid. Each academic year, continuing students must reapply by completing a FAFSA, Renewal FAFSA, or FAFSA on the web. Scholarships require separate applications. Specific information regarding financial assistance, including application deadlines or priority dates, may be obtained from the college Office of Student Financial Aid.

Types of Aid

Grants, loans, student employment, and scholarship funds may be available from federal, state, and/or private sources.

The Maricopa Community Colleges Foundation offers a variety of scholarship opportunities. Scholarship opportunities are available year round. However, most scholarships are posted mid-January and most deadlines are the last week of March. Options are available at Scholarship Application or by calling 480-731-8400.

Distribution of Aid

Criteria by which aid is distributed among eligible financial aid applicants are available on request at the college Office of Student Financial Aid.

Rights and Responsibilities

Students should read all information provided in the process of applying for federal financial aid in order to gain a greater knowledge of all the rights as well as responsibilities involved in receiving that assistance.

Satisfactory Academic Progress

Specific requirements for academic progress for financial aid recipients are applied differently than scholastic standards. In addition to scholastic standards which are explained elsewhere in this catalog, financial aid recipients are also subject to the following Standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress. Specific information is available at the college Office of Student Financial Aid.

Refunds and Repayments

In accordance with federal regulations (CFR 668.22), a student may be required to repay federal financial aid funds if they completely withdraw, are withdrawn, or fail to earn a passing grade from all classes during a semester. Further information is available at the college Office of Student Financial Aid. This could affect a student’s ability to receive Financial Aid in the future at any school. For a student receiving Financial Aid, also see Administrative Regulation 2.3.6 Withdrawal for Withdrawal procedures.

Verification of Information

1. A Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) or a change to that FAFSA may be selected for verification. If a student’s FAFSA is selected for verification, the student will be notified via the Student Center at www.maricopa.edu/students. In most cases, the student will be required to submit documentation as part of the verification process. The earlier the Financial Aid Office receives the required documentation, the earlier the student’s eligibility for financial aid can be determined. The verification process must be completed no later than 120 days after the last date of enrollment or August 31, whichever comes first. In addition, the Financial Aid Office must receive a final and valid electronic SAR by the student’s last day of enrollment or June 30 of the award year, whichever comes first. The verification process must be completed before the Financial Aid Office can award any federal aid.
2. If an award has already been made and a FAFSA is selected for verification, the student must provide required documentation within thirty days after it has been requested of the student or on June 30, whichever comes first. If documentation is not received within this deadline, the student’s award may be adjusted or canceled.
3. The required forms and documents a student submits for verification will be compared to the information reported on the student’s FAFSA. If the information provided does not match what is shown on the FAFSA, the Financial Aid Office will submit changes to the US Department of Education FAFSA processor. After all changes are made to the FAFSA data, the student’s eligibility for financial aid will be reviewed. If there are any changes to the student’s financial aid eligibility as a result of verification, the student will be notified by means of the Student Center at www.maricopa.edu/students. If, following verification, the institution discovers evidence of student aid fraud (including identity theft), waste or abuse of US Department of Education funds, such evidence may be referred to the Office of Inspector General of the US Department of Education.

Award Amount and Level of Enrollment

Award amount is determined, in part, on the level of enrollment. A reduction in course load after financial aid has been awarded may result in an adjusted financial aid award. Federal student aid recipients are advised to register at the same time for all classes they intend to take during a semester to maximize award. Some federal aid may not be awarded for classes added at a later date. Contact the college Office of Student Financial Aid for more information.

Repeated Coursework and Financial Aid Enrollment Status

Federal regulations regarding repeated coursework may impact your financial aid eligibility and awards. Federal regulations specify that students may receive federal financial aid funding for one repetition of a previously passed course. A passed course is defined as one in which a grade of A, B, C, D, or P is received. If you enroll in a course in which you have previously received passing grades twice, the course will not be counted towards your enrollment level for financial aid purposes. You may repeat a failed course until it is passed. Your enrollment for financial aid purposes will be calculated accordingly.

Maricopa Community Colleges Standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) for Financial Aid Eligibility

Federal regulations (CFR 668.32(f) and 668.34) require a student to move toward the completion of a degree or certificate within an eligible program when receiving financial aid. Specific requirements for academic progress for financial aid recipients are applied differently than Scholastic Standards. Federal regulations state that Academic Progress Standards must include a review of all periods of enrollment, regardless of whether or not aid was received. Students will be evaluated using the standards described below. Failure to meet any of these minimum standards will result in loss of Title IV, HEA program (federal financial aid) eligibility.

To remain eligible for federal and state aid programs, students must meet ALL of MCCCD’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards regardless of whether a student has received financial aid in the past or not. These standards apply to a student’s entire academic records at any MCCCD college, including transfer credit hours accepted by the college.

1. Definitions and Terminology Pertaining to this Policy
   
   1. Summer: Enrollment in the summer semester includes all courses scheduled within the summer enrollment period with all coursework counted in the SAP evaluation.
   2. Non-Standard Session / Clock Hour: Sessions that do not follow the traditional start and end dates for the semester.
   3. Attempted Credit: Any credit for which a grade of A, B, C, D, F, I, IP, N, P, W, Y, or Z is received and courses not yet graded.
   4. CGPA [Cumulative Grade Point Average]: The MCCCD grading policy is published in the administrative regulations at 2.3.3. The CGPA does not include credits accepted in transfer.
   5. Financial Aid Warning: status assigned to an eligible payment period for the next enrolled semester after failing SAP GPA (2.0) and/or Completion Pace (⅔). Students not meeting maximum timeframe evaluation are not eligible for a warning period.
   6. Appeal: A process by which a student who is not meeting the institution’s satisfactory academic progress standards is eligible to appeal the institution for reconsideration of the student’s eligibility for Title IV, HEA program assistance based on extenuating circumstances.
   7. Extenuating Circumstance: A one-time (not on-going) circumstance that is beyond the reasonable control of the student. Examples of extenuating circumstances may include, but not limited to:
      
      1. ​​​​​Documented medical condition or serious illness that prevented you from performing certain life tasks
      2. Documented illness of a family member that required your presence for a significant amount of time
      3. Death of immediate family member which impacted you significantly enough to affect participation in your courses
      4. Involuntary call to active military duty
      5. Documented involuntary change in employment conditions that prevented you from attending classes
      6. Any other extraordinary/emergency circumstances, such as a natural disaster
          
   8. Financial Aid Probation: A status assigned by an institution to a student who fails to make satisfactory academic progress and who has appealed and has had eligibility for aid reinstated. A student in this status may not receive Title IV, HEA program funds for the subsequent payment period unless the student makes satisfactory academic progress or the institution determines that the student met the requirements specified by the institution in the academic plan for the student.
   9. Academic Plan – A plan developed through the SAP Appeal Process which will lead a student to qualify for further Title IV, HEA program funds and complete the program within 150% of published program length.
   10. Financial Aid Suspension – The status assigned upon failing to meet the minimum SAP standards or the terms of probationary status. Students in this status are not eligible to receive Title IV, HEA assistance.
2. Federal regulations (CFR 668.32(f) and 668.34) require institutions of higher education to evaluate Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) using qualitative (GPA) and quantitative (pace of progression) standards.
3. Qualitative and quantitative measures of SAP are required to ensure students receiving Federal Student Aid are progressing towards the completion of a degree or certificate within an eligible program.
4. Specific requirements for academic progress for Federal Student Aid recipients are applied differently than Scholastic Standards. Federal regulations state that SAP Standards must include a review of all periods of enrollment, regardless of whether or not aid was received. Standards are applicable for all enrolled payment periods, including all levels of enrollment (full-time or part-time enrollment). Students will be evaluated using the standards described below.
5. Failure to meet any of the minimum standards outlined below will result in a student’s loss of HEA, Title IV Federal Student Aid.

Evaluation Period

1. Standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) will be evaluated at the end of each payment period. For credit hour programs, a payment period is a semester (Fall, Spring, and Summer). For clock hour programs, a payment period / evaluation will depend on the hours required in the program.
2. Standards of Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) are evaluated based on qualitative (GPA), quantitative (pace of progression), and maximum timeframe. Failure to meet any of these standards may result in the loss of eligibility for financial aid. Grades of F, I, N, W, Y, Z, and courses not yet graded are considered attempted, but not completed in evaluating SAP. Late grades will be recalculated and may change eligibility.
   
   1. Grade Point Average Qualitative Measurement: Students must maintain a 2.0 cumulative Grade Point Average in order to meet SAP GPA requirements.
   2. Pace of Progression Quantitative Measurement: Students must successfully complete 2/3 (66.67%) of all attempted course work. For clock hour programs, please refer to program attendance requirements.
   3. Maximum Time Frame Measurement: Students must be able to complete their program within 150% of the published program length. Once students have attempted 150% of the published program length, they are no longer eligible for Federal Student Aid. For example, a 16 credit certificate program will allow up to 24 credit hours to complete the program. A 60 credit Associate’s degree will allow up to 90 credit hours to complete the program. A 120 credit Bachelor's degree will allow up to 180 credit hours to complete the program.
3. Courses included in SAP evaluation:
   
   1. All attempted coursework, regardless of enrollment status
   2. Courses funded through a Consortium Agreement
   3. All attempted remedial credits, including English as a Second Language (ESL) courses.
   4. Repeated course work
   5. All transferred coursework
   6. Grades attempted, but not completed (F, I, N, W, Y, Z)
4. Course work included in the Maximum Time Frame evaluation:
   
   1. All of those included in the Pace of Progression evaluation
   2. Any Bachelor’s degree (or higher) earned will be considered to have exhausted maximum timeframe eligibility for students pursuing an Associates Degree or certificate
   3. Any graduate degree (or higher) earned will be considered to have exhausted maximum timeframe eligibility for students pursuing a Bachelor's Degree. 
   4. All coursework forgiven through the Academic Renewal Process
5. Course work not included in SAP evaluation:
   
   1. Audited courses
   2. Non-credit courses
   3. Credit by examination
   4. Credit for prior learning option (as outlined in the college general catalog)

 

Notification

Students who have applied for Federal Student Aid, but are not meeting Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements, will be notified via email of their FA Warning or ineligibility for financial aid. The notification will direct students to information regarding available college resources during the Warning Period and the appeal process in cases of extenuating circumstances. 

Financial Aid Warning

Students are allowed a warning period upon failing Qualitative and/or Quantitative SAP standards.  The warning period allows one (1) payment period (semester) of Federal Student Aid eligibility upon failing SAP. The warning period will follow the semester for which SAP was not met, meaning the next semester for which the student registers for classes.  In order to receive the Warning period, students must be meeting Maximum Timeframe requirements.

SAP Appeal

Any student who has lost federal student aid eligibility due to a resolved, one-time extenuating circumstance may appeal to have their financial aid reinstated by completing a Satisfactory Academic Progress Appeal Form. The form must address:

1.  what caused the student’s work to fall below acceptable standards--specific explanations must be provided, including any supporting documentation,
2. each incomplete/failed course,
3. how the extenuating circumstance has been resolved, and 
4. how the student will maintain good academic standards and progress toward the degree if the appeal is granted.               

The outcome of the appeal will depend upon:

1. the nature of the extenuating circumstances (if the stated circumstance qualifies as such),
2. the quality of the documentation provided, and
3. how well the student has demonstrated the ability to progress towards degree completion within a reasonable time period.  

All documentation submitted is confidential.  All decisions are final and cannot be appealed.  For assistance in completing the SAP appeal paperwork, including examples of supporting documentation, visit your college Financial Aid Office.   

Students will be notified of the results of their appeal within ten (10) days of filing the appeal. Notification will include any restrictions or conditions pertaining to their appeal. The outcome of an appeal may include a probationary period. Appeals granted longer than one (1) payment period must include an academic plan, which must be followed.  Failure to follow an approved academic plan will result in immediate suspension of Federal Student Aid.  Students are responsible for any and all debt incurred as a result of this adjustment to financial aid. 

Failure to successfully complete all conditions during the probationary period (as defined in the academic plan) will result in loss of future financial aid eligibility.

Regaining Eligibility

A student who has lost financial aid eligibility may only regain eligibility by meeting the minimum SAP standards. Transfer coursework taken at other colleges will be considered for reinstatement purposes.  

 

If you are receiving federal financial aid it is important to read the information below prior to making a decision to withdraw.

Treatment of Title IV Aid When a Student Withdraws

POLICY SUMMARY STATEMENT

To provide guidance on the treatment of federal student aid (Title IV) funds when a student withdraws from a Maricopa College.  

DEFINITIONS 

Date of Determination – The date of determination is the date in which the school determines that a student ceased attendance or completely withdrew from school. This may be the date that the institution becomes aware that the student ceased attendance, or the date that the student begins the official withdrawal process at the school. 

Earned Aid Calculation – A formula used to determine the amount of Title IV aid the student earned for the payment period. To calculate the amount of Title IV aid earned by the student multiply the percentage of Title IV aid earned by the student, by the total amount of Title IV aid disbursed (including that which could have been disbursed to the student or on behalf of the student), for the payment period as of the student’s withdrawal date. 

Official Withdrawal - The process by which a student begins the school’s official withdrawal process or provides official notification to the school of his or her intent to withdraw. The student’s approach to his or her withdrawal directly impacts the school’s date of determination for which the student ceased attendance, and is used in the return of Title IV funds calculation.

To officially withdraw, the student will need to notify a designated office; this office for most MCCCD colleges is the Admissions and Records department. The designated office staff will assist the student to complete the withdrawal process. Schools will utilize a change in student status or comparable form to record a student’s withdrawal, official or unofficial (see “unofficial withdrawal” definition). The school registrar will determine the last date of attendance based on federal and institutional policy and the school’s date of determination. The date of determination is either the date that the student began the prescribed withdrawal process, or the date that the student provided the school with an official notification of his or her intent to withdraw, whichever is later. If the student is present, the student will sign and date the change in status or comparable form. Designated office staff will also sign and date the form, and retain it in the student’s file at the school. 

Order Of Return of Title IV Funds - A federally prescribed order for returning Title IV FUNDS required as a result of a return of Title IV funds calculation. Unearned funds, returned by either the institution or the student, are credited to the programs from which the student received the aid from during the payment period, up to the net amount disbursed from each program. Funds will be returned based on the following order:

1. Unsubsidized Federal Direct Stafford Loans
2. Subsidized Federal Direct Stafford Loans
3. Federal Direct Plus Loans
4. Federal Pell Grants
5. Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants
6. FSEOG
7. Teach Grants

Percentage of Title IV Aid Earned – Definitions for term, and modular programs below, in accordance with ED regulations:

Title IV Credit Balance - A Title IV credit balance occurs whenever the amount of Title IV Funds credited to a student’s account for a payment period exceeds the allowable charges associated with the semester (payment period). All Title IV federal student aid credit balances are disbursed directly to the student and refunded to the method selected in the student center. Refunds are generally processed within 3 business days but no later than 14 days of when credit balance occurred.

STANDARD TERM PROGRAMS

Upon the withdrawal, the District Office Student Financial Services (DOSFS) will calculate the percentage and amount of awarded federal student aid funds that the student has earned in the payment period. In some cases and depending upon the withdrawal date and percentage of completion, the student may earn 100 percent of the FSA funds, the calculation will still be completed as required and the amount earned will be based on the percentage of the term or payment period that was completed in days up to and including the last date of attendance or eligible academic activity, with scheduled attendance locked at census / Pell recalculation. To calculate the amount earned, DOFA will determine the percentage by dividing the number of calendar days completed in the term/payment period up to and including the last date of attendance by the total number of calendar days in the term/payment period. The number of days a student is scheduled to attend during a payment period is determined based on the start and end date of the scheduled term / payment period. All scheduled breaks during the term / payment period are excluded from the calculation. 

MODULES

A program that is offered in modules is a program that consists of course(s) in the program that do not span the entire length of the payment period or period of enrollment. Regulatory change effective July 1, 2021: a program is offered in modules if the program uses a standard-term or non-standard term academic calendar, is not a subscription-based program, and a course or courses in the program do not span the entire length of the payment period or period of enrollment. The DOSFS will calculate the percentage and amount of awarded federal student aid that the student earned within the payment period. If the student has completed more than 49 percent of the payment period, or has completed all of the degree requirements from his/her program before completing the days/hours in the period that he/she was scheduled to complete, or if the student completes coursework equal to or greater than the coursework required for the institution’s definition of a half-time student for the payment period, or the school receives written notification that the student will attend a module that begins in the same payment period or period of enrollment, the student is not considered to have withdrawn, and a Return of Title IV Funds (R2T4) is not required and will not be calculated.   

When a student withdraws from the payment period before completing 49 percent of the payment period, the amount of federal student aid the student earned is determined based on a specific formula. The number of days a student is scheduled to attend during a payment period is determined based on the start and end date of the scheduled term / payment period, with scheduled attendance locked at census / Pell recalculation. Scheduled breaks are excluded from the calculation. The amount of assistance the student earned is determined on a rate-of-progression basis. 

Post-Withdrawal Disbursement -  If, as of the date of the institution’s determination that the student withdrew the amount of Title IV aid that the student earned is more than the amount of Title IV aid disbursed to the student or on behalf of the student, the difference between these amounts is considered earned aid, and must therefore be applied to outstanding charges on the student’s account and/or directly disbursed to the student. 

Return of Title IV Funds (R2T4) - When a recipient of Title IV aid withdraws from an institution during a payment period or period of enrollment in which the recipient began attendance, the school must calculate the amount of earned and unearned Title IV aid and compare this to the amount of aid disbursed at the date of determination, to determine how to proceed.

If it is determined that the amount of Title IV aid disbursed exceeds the amount of Title IV aid earned, a return of Title IV funds is due, and both the school and the student may have a responsibility for returning the unearned portion of the funds. The school must return the unearned portion of Title IV aid for which the school is responsible for and notify the student of the unearned portion of Title IV aid that the student is responsible for and therefore must return. 

If it is determined that the amount of earned Title IV aid exceeds the amount of Title IV aid disbursed, the student may be eligible for the amount of aid not yet disbursed, in the form of a post-withdrawal disbursement.  A post-withdrawal disbursement must be made within 180 days of the date the institution determined that the student withdrew. The amount of a post-withdrawal disbursement is determined by following the requirements for calculating earned Title IV aid and has no relationship to incurred educational costs. All Title IV federal student aid credit balances are disbursed directly to the student and refunded to the method selected in the student center. Refunds are generally processed within 3 business days but no later than 14 days of when credit balance occurred.

TITLE IV LOANS

For unearned funds calculated to be returned by the school:

It is policy, as part of the R2T4 process, to provide notification to the student indicating the loan type(s) and amount(s) calculated as needing to be returned and, thus, the date returned by the school. The school must return the lesser of the amount of Title IV funds not earned, or the amount of institutional charges that the student incurred for the payment period multiplied by the percent of funds not earned.  

For unearned Title IV funds calculated to be returned by the student:

If there is a remaining balance of unearned Title IV aid which needs to be returned, after the school has returned its portion of unearned Title IV aid, the student (or the parent for plus loan) is responsible for returning this amount. While the student must return or repay any unearned Title IV loan amount in accordance with the terms of the loan, the student must repay any unearned Title IV grant funds as an overpayment of the grant. The student’s portion is calculated by subtracting the amount of unearned Title IV aid that the institution is required to return from the total amount of unearned Title IV aid required to be returned.  If it is calculated that unearned loan(s) need to be returned by the student, the center will notify the lender or servicer of the student’s last date of attendance; the student will not need to repay the loan(s) immediately, but will repay the loans based on the terms of the promissory note. The lender or servicer will notify the student or parent, per the terms of the promissory note.

TITLE IV GRANTS

For unearned funds calculated to be returned by the school or student:

It is policy, as part of the R2T4 process, to provide notification to the student indicating the grant type(s) and amount(s) calculated as needing to be returned and, thus, the date returned by the school.

Return of Unearned Aid - If, as of the date of the institution’s determination that the student withdrew the amount of Title IV aid that the student earned is less than the amount of Title IV aid disbursed to the student or on behalf of the student, the difference between these amounts is considered unearned aid, and must therefore be returned to the Title IV program in a specified order, by either the school, the student, or both.

Unofficial Withdrawal (also known as an “administrative” withdrawal) - A student who did not begin the official withdrawal process or provide notification of his or her intent to withdraw; the date of the school’s determination that the student withdrew would be the date that the school becomes aware that the student ceased attendance. See “official withdrawal” definition above. 

A student who does not notify the school that s/he is withdrawing but ceases attending, is administratively withdrawn by the school within 14 days of non attendance; this is otherwise known as an unofficial withdrawal. A student is administratively withdrawn from school when the student violates the school’s published attendance policy, which adheres to state licensing and accreditation requirements. Please see the school’s catalog for its current attendance policy.

Withdrawal Date (also known as the “last date of attendance”) - The date that the student begins the school’s withdrawal process or the date that the student provides official notification of intent to withdraw, whichever comes earlier. If the student does not provide any official notification of intent to withdraw, the withdrawal date will be determined by the school, and depend upon the student’s circumstances. 

FEDERAL TITLE IV REFUND POLICY

If a recipient of Title IV grant or loan funds withdraws from a school after beginning attendance, the school must perform a Return of Title IV funds (R2T4) calculation to determine the amount of Title IV federal student aid funds earned by the student. If the calculation determines that the amount of Title IV aid disbursed to the student is greater than the amount the student earned, the unearned Title IV funds must be returned to the program. If it is determined that the amount of Title IV aid disbursed to the student is less than the amount the student earned (and for which the student is otherwise eligible for), the student may be eligible for a post-withdrawal disbursement for the earned Title IV funds not yet disbursed to the student.  

The R2T4 calculation is required if a student receiving Title IV federal student aid ceases attendance or completely withdraws from all courses without completing the semester (payment period). 

The school must determine the amount of Title IV aid earned by the student, as of the withdrawal date. Once the earned portion is calculated, the unearned portion is calculated to determine if funds must be returned to the program or a post-withdrawal disbursement is necessary. Federal policy is followed to determine the amount of Title IV aid earned on a case by case basis. The R2T4 calculation is always required when a student fully withdrawals or ceases attendance prior to the scheduled end of the semester, the calculation may determine that the student earned 100% of Title IV funds and will not be required to return funds. A return of Title IV funds worksheet is calculated when a student ceases attendance in all courses within the scheduled semester (payment period), i.e. withdrawal. 

WITHDRAWAL PROCEDURE OVERVIEW: 

Policy Disclaimer

This policy serves as a guideline for the refund of Title IV and tuition procedure with the understanding that it does not cover every possible scenario. As a result, complex areas may arise where certain refund procedures may need to be addressed on a case-by-case basis.

Party(ies) Responsible for Policy Training

MCCCD District Office of Financial Aid Compliance and Operations / Office of General Council. District Director of Financial Aid Operations and Compliance. The policy owner is responsible to determine the method, means and frequency of training on this policy.      

Exceptions

Requests for an exception to this policy should be addressed to the policy owner as outlined in the procedure for requesting a policy exception.

Policy Review/Update and Audit

This policy will be reviewed annually. Compliance with this policy is audited on a random basis by Internal Audit. 

 

 

 

A student who feels that he/she has been treated unfairly or unjustly by a faculty member (full-time or part-time) with regard to an academic process such as grading, testing or assignments, shall discuss the issue first with the faculty member involved. This conference shall be requested by the student within fifteen (15) working days from the time the student knew or reasonably should have known about the unfair or unjust treatment. If the grade issue is the final grade, Article 20.7.6 of the Faculty Agreement governs.

This instructional grievance process should not be utilized in a case in which a student feels he/she has experienced discrimination. If the student feels that he/she has experienced discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, national origin, citizenship status (including document abuse), gender, age, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or sexual orientation, the student should refer to the Discrimination Complaint Procedures for Students as administered by the Vice President for Student Affairs.

Steps for students to follow:

1. If, within ten (10) working days of the request for the conference with faculty member, the problem is not resolved or the faculty member has been unable to meet with the student, the student may continue the process by filing a written grievance with the Department/Division Chairperson and appropriate administrative officer at the college/center. This written grievance must be filed within ten working days following the previous deadline. The written grievance will be given to the faculty member five days before any official meetings are convened.
   
    
2. Upon receipt of a written grievance, the Department/Division Chair or appropriate college administrative officer will work with the parties in an attempt to resolve the conflict. The faculty may ask that the College Faculty Senate President be in attendance. Every attempt will be made to maintain confidentiality during this process. A faculty member will not be required to respond to a grievance which is not in writing and which, when appropriate, did not have specific documentation including dates, times, materials, etc. The written grievance will be made available to the faculty member.
   
    
3. If the grievance is not resolved at this level within ten working days, the student should forward to vice president of academic affairs or designee, a copy of the original written grievance with an explanation regarding action taken at each prior level. The dean of instruction or appropriate college/ center administrative officer will meet with the student, faculty member, the College Faculty Senate President if requested by the faculty member, and Department/Division Chair and attempt to resolve the issues. This level will be the final step in any grievance process regarding grades.
   
    
4. If the grievance, other than those concerning grades, is not resolved by the vice president of academic affairs or designee, it may be forwarded in writing by the student to the college president for final resolution. The college president or designee will issue a final written determination in the grievance process.
5. Instructional grievances are resolved at the college level. The district office is not an avenue of appeal for the instructional grievance process.

 

Note: The grievance process for grades must be initiated no later than sixty (60) calendar days from the date the grade was issued.

Appendix S-7 Withdrawal Procedures was removed from the Appendices section through the Catalog Common Pages Administrative Regulation Review Process, June 12, 2023.  Refer to Administrative Regulation 2.3.6 Withdrawal for information regarding withdrawal procedures.

A student who feels that he or she has been treated unfairly or unjustly by any employee with regard to a non-instructional process such as a student or administrative services has the right to file a formal and written complaint according to the approved procedures. Steps for students to follow:

1. Discuss the issue with the employee involved. The student should request this conference within fifteen (15) working days from the time the student knew or reasonably should have known about the unfair or unjust treatment.
   
    
2. If, within ten (10) working days of the request for the conference with the employee, the problem is not resolved or the employee has been unable to meet with the student, the student may continue the process by filing a written complaint with the appropriate supervisor of the employee where authority exists to take corrective action. This written complaint must be filed within ten (10) working days following the previous deadline. The written complaint will be given to the employee five (5) working days before any official meetings are convened.
   
    
3. Upon receipt of a written complaint, the appropriate supervisor will work with the parties in an attempt to resolve the conflict. Every attempt will be made to maintain confidentiality during this process. An employee will not be required to respond to a complaint which is not in writing and which, when appropriate, does not have specific documentation including dates, times, actions, supporting documents, etc. The written complaint will be made available to the employee.
   
    
4. If the complaint is not resolved at this level within ten (10) working days, the student should forward to the vice president of student affairs or designee, a copy of the original written complaint with an explanation regarding action taken at each prior level. The vice president of student affairs or designee will meet with the student, the employee, and the relevant supervisor and attempt to resolve the issues.
   
    
5. If the vice president of student affairs or designee do not resolve the complaint, the student may forward it in writing to the college president for final resolution. The college president or designee will issue a final written determination in the complaint process.

Information deleted through Administrative Regulation approval process on February 23, 2010.

1. Applications for reduced course loads must be submitted to the Disability & Services professional with supporting documentation. Requests must be made prior to the beginning of each semester.
2. Supporting documentation must include a diagnostic evaluation from an appropriate professional. The documentation must meet the guidelines set forth by the Maricopa Community College District’s Documentation Policy in order to evaluate the current impact of the disability in regards to the request. Students are required to complete an application form for this status every semester, but do not need to re-submit their documentation. Continuation of this status is not automatic. Each case will be re-evaluated at the end of the semester to determine if this accommodation is still appropriate.
3. Students requesting a reduced course load should consult with their academic advisor regarding the consequences of this status for making progress toward graduation requirements and eligibility for various academic distinctions and designations.
4. Students registered in occupational and/or academic programs that have specific block formats will not be considered for reduced course loads.
5. Students who are approved for a reduced course load will be required to sign the Reduced Course Load Approval Form, which includes a statement acknowledging that he or she has reviewed the consequences that go with reduced load status and accepts them.
6. When a reduced course load status is granted by the Disability Resources & Services professional, a copy of the Reduced Course Load Approval Form will be sent to the appropriate individuals.

Reduced Course Load Approval Form (Adobe Acrobat—Requires Acrobat Reader)

Appendix S-11 Procedures for Lost or Stolen Student Records has been hereby repealed and is no longer effective.

Important Deadline for Students (Adobe Acrobat—Requires Acrobat Reader)

Allied Health or Nursing Assumption of Risk/Release of Liability

Most of the allied health or nursing program pathways include a program of study in a clinical training environment that may contain exposures to risks inherent in patient-oriented educational experiences (such as but not limited to bodily injury or communicable and infectious diseases). Students enrolling in clinical educational courses will be asked to sign a statement assuming all risks inherent in their coursework.

Use of Confidential Information

Students enrolled in allied health or nursing program pathways will have learning experiences in a health care setting where they will have access to confidential information. Prior to beginning any clinical studies, the students will be asked to sign an agreement to adhere to the requirements of those clinical sites and applicable law, including the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).

MCCCD Required Background Checks

Students enrolled in an MCCCD allied health or nursing program are required to complete and pass clinical learning experiences, working with children, elderly persons, and other vulnerable populations. MCCCD’s major clinical agency partners now mandate that any college students assigned to them for clinical experiences submit to a comprehensive background clearance prior to entering such learning experiences. Because the clinical experience portion of the programs is critical to completing a program of study, MCCCD has instituted two specific background check requirements in order for a student to enroll in a program. First, the student must obtain, at his or her own cost, a Level I Fingerprint Clearance Card from the Arizona Department of Public Safety. Precluding offenses for a Level I card can be found in Arizona Revised Statute § 41-1758.07 (https://www.azleg.gov/viewdocument/?docName=https://www.azleg.gov/ars/41/01758-07.htm). Additionally, students must also obtain a “pass” status on a MCCCD supplemental background check from MCCCD’s authorized background check contractor. The student must also pay for this background check. The supplemental check will be based on the most stringent standards of MCCCD’s clinical experience partners.

The sole program for which the background check requirements are different is the Emergency Medical Technician program. For that program, students must have obtained a Level 1 Fingerprint Clearance Card from the Arizona Department of Public Safety. They are also required, at the time of their clinical assignments, to submit to, pay for and pass any additional background check requirements of the clinical agencies to which their EMT program places students.

Certain licensing boards may require a separate background check or clearance card upon application for licensure or certification.

The MCCCD supplemental background check review may include searches of the following databases and information but MCCCD reserves the right to change the search criteria and the program background check requirements at any time without notice:

1. National Federal Health Care and Abuse Databases
2. Social Security Verification
3. Residency History
4. Arizona Statewide Criminal Records
5. Nationwide Criminal Databases
6. Nationwide Sexual Offender Registry
7. Homeland Security Search

Examples of background information that will result in a “fail” status on the supplemental background check include:

1. Social Security number does not belong to the applicant
2. Any inclusion on any registered sex offender database
3. Any inclusion on any of the Federal exclusion lists or Homeland Security watch lists
4. Any conviction of a felony no matter what age of the convictions
5. Any warrant any state
6. Any misdemeanor conviction for the following no matter how long ago:
   
   1. Violent crimes
   2. Sex crime of any kind including non consensual sexual crimes and sexual assault
   3. Murder, attempted murder
   4. Abduction
   5. Assault
   6. Robbery
   7. Arson
   8. Extortion
   9. Burglary
   10. Pandering
   11. Any crime against minors, children, vulnerable adults including abuse, neglect, exploitation
   12. Any abuse or neglect
   13. Any fraud
   14. Illegal drugs
   15. Aggravated DUI
7. Any misdemeanor controlled substance conviction in last 7 years
8. Any other misdemeanor conviction within last 3 years  [EXCEPTIONS:  Any misdemeanor traffic (DUI is NOT considered traffic).

The information that MCCCD uses for the “pass/fail” background check is subject to change at any time without notice.

MCCCD recommends that students carry proof of the background clearance at all times during any clinical agency learning experience.

Duty to Report Changes; Removal

Students have an obligation to immediately report to the director of their program any change in the information that they supplied on forms submitted to initiate background checks relating to the allied health or nursing program. That includes information provided to the Arizona Department of Public Safety and MCCCD’s supplemental background check vendor, as well as that related to the background check required by a clinical agency. Failure to do so will result in removal from the program. Additionally, any change in background check status that would affect the student’s clearance under either MCCCD’s or a clinical agency’s standards will result in removal from a program.

Additional Clinical Agency Background Check

Some clinical agencies require that students assigned to their sites submit to a criminal background check covering other offenses, as well as to a drug screening. Students are required to pay for the additional agency clinical background check. A clinical agency that requires this additional background check may refuse to place a student due to information the clinical agency obtains in its background check even though that student possess a valid Level I Fingerprint Clearance Card and has obtained a “pass” status on the MCCCD supplemental background check.

Some conditions that have resulted in students being denied placement at clinical agencies include pending criminal charges, outstanding warrants, unfinished terms of a sentence (such as unpaid fines), pattern of repeated types of arrests/convictions, and failure to disclose all past arrests/convictions when asked to do so on any background check application.

Inability to Place

MCCCD has no obligation to make repeated attempts to place a student when the reason for MCCCD’s inability to place the student is due to background check issues. Since clinical agency assignments are mandatory requirements for completion of a program, a student’s inability to complete required clinical experience due to his or her background check issues will result in removal from the program.

Changes to Admission or Background Check Requirements

MCCCD may change its program admission requirements or background check requirements without notice at any time.

No Guarantee of Receipt of Licensure/Certificate

Many of the nursing and allied health programs prepare graduates for application for State or National certificates or licenses. In some professions, such licensure and certification is required prior to employment or practice in the profession. Graduation from a nursing and allied health program does not guarantee the receipt of a license or certificate to practice in the field of study.

Procedure for Petition Signature Solicitation (Adobe Acrobat—Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader)

Procedure for Use of College Grounds (Adobe Acrobat—Requires Acrobat Reader) *subject to revision*

In 2010, Arizona voters approved the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act (Propositions 203), a state law permitting individuals to possess and use limited quantities of marijuana for medical purposes. Because of its obligations under federal law, however, the Maricopa Community Colleges will continue to prohibit marijuana possession and use on campus for any purpose.

Under the Drug Free Workplace Act of 1988, and the Drug Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989, “…no institution of higher education shall be eligible to receive funds or any other form of financial assistance under any federal program, including participation in any federally funded or guaranteed student loan program, unless it has adopted and has implemented a program to prevent the use of illicit drugs and abuse of alcohol by students and employees.” Another federal law, the Controlled Substances Act, prohibits the possession, use, production, and distribution of marijuana for any and all uses, including medicinal use. This law is not affected by the passage of the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act. Because Maricopa Community Colleges could lose its eligibility for federal funds if it fails to prohibit marijuana, it is exempt from the requirements of the Arizona Medical Marijuana Act. Therefore, Maricopa Community Colleges will continue to enforce its current policies prohibiting the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession, or use of a controlled substance on its property or as part of any of its activities.

Employees and students who violate Maricopa Community Colleges policy prohibiting the use or possession of illegal drugs on campus will continue to be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including expulsion from school and termination of employment.

In instances where the college decides not to amend an education record as requested by the student, the college will notify the student of the decision and advise him/her of the right to an appeal hearing according to the following process:

 

• The student must have first presented the issue in writing to the college’s Admissions/Enrollment Office or designee identifying the records that he/she wishes to have amended and provided any supporting documentation.  Note: With the exception of clerical errors, requests that are expressly related to grade disputes are not subject to this process and must be vetted through the Instructional Grievance Process. 

 

• If the request to change the record was deemed unsubstantiated by the college designee and the institution was able to demonstrate that the record was accurate, the student will be informed of the right to a formal appeal hearing.

 

• Students must request a formal hearing within 10 business days from the date they are informed of the right to an appeal hearing.

 

• The request for a formal hearing must be in writing and delivered to the [Dean of Admissions/Enrollment Services, Vice President of Student Affairs] or designee.

 

• The college official who receives the formal hearing request will either review the case personally or designate a hearing committee if the issue involves a matter not clearly established by current policy or administrative regulation.

 

•  A written decision will be delivered to all parties summarizing the evidence and stating the reason(s) for the decision.  If the decision is in favor of the student, the education record will be amended.  If the decision is for the record to remain the same, the student may place a statement commenting on or disagreeing with the decision in the education record.  

The Campus Sex Crime Prevention Act (CSCPA), (section 1601 of Public Law 106-386), is a Federal Law enacted on October 28, 2000. In compliance with this law, the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) will work in collaboration with the Sheriff’s Department to identify convicted registered sex offenders enrolled as students at one of MCCCD’s colleges or working at the District office or at any of the MCCCD colleges (in paid or unpaid positions).

GENERAL INFORMATION

1. In accordance with the CSCPA, the MCCCD will provide on its Sex Offender Information and Notification website, a link to the Arizona Sex Offender Registry website and instructions on how to access it.
2. Arizona Revised Statutes require persons convicted of any of the following 21 different offenses to register as sex offenders: 1) unlawful imprisonment if the victim is under 18 years of age; 2) kidnapping if the victim is under 18 years of age; 3) sexual abuse if the victim is under 18 years of age; 4) sexual conduct with a minor; 5) sexual assault; 6) sexual assault of a spouse; 7) molestation of a child; 8) continuous sexual abuse of a child; 9) taking a child for the purpose of prostitution; 10) child prostitution; 11) commercial sexual exploitation of a minor; 12) sexual exploitation of a minor; 13) luring a minor for sexual exploitation; 14) aggravated luring a minor for sexual exploitation; 15) unlawful age misrepresentation for the purpose of committing a sexual offense 16) sex trafficking of a minor; 17) a second or subsequent violation of indecent exposure to a person under 15 years of age; 18) a second or subsequent violation of public sexual indecency to a minor under the age of 15; 19) a third or subsequent violation of indecent exposure; 20) a third or subsequent violation of public sexual indecency; and 21) violations relating to the failure to register as a sex offender. (See A.R.S. §13-3821).
3. The Arizona Department of Public Safety classifies sex offenders according to levels. The levels consist of Level 1: Low risk to the community, Level 2: Intermediate risk to the community, and Level 3: High risk to the community.
4. By law, Registered Sex Offenders (RSO) are required to contact the Maricopa County Sheriff’s office or local police agency when they enroll in or are employed at a college—in either paid or unpaid status. (A.R.S. §13-3821).
   
   1. Level Two and Level Three Offender’s Obligation to Notify the College:

      STUDENTS

      1. Current Students who are enrolled and receive their final classification or a change in classification as a Level 2 or Level 3 sex offender during their period of enrollment must notify the Campus Public Safety Officer within five (5) business days of the start of the semester. Campus Public Safety Officers for each college and for the district office can be found. The Campus safety officer will schedule a meeting with the Dean of Students (or designee) and the Registered Sex Offender student to take place within ten (10) days of the notification to Public Safety.
         
         1. Failure to comply with this procedure may lead to discipline under the Student Code of Conduct as well as possible criminal penalty as outlined in Arizona state law.
      2. Potential Students who have been designated as a Level 2 or Level 3 sex offender must notify the Campus Public Safety Officer to arrange a meeting when they intend to enroll at a College. Campus Public Safety Officers for each college and for the district office can be found at the MCCCD Police website. This meeting must take place at least ten (10) calendar days prior to the start of classes. The meeting shall include the RSO, the Dean of Students (or designee), and the Campus Public Safety Officer.)
         
         1. A person who is classified as a Level Two or Three sex offender has been admitted to MCCCD and who has failed to timely to register pursuant to these procedures may be subject to discipline under the Student Code of Conduct as well as possible criminal penalties as outlined in Arizona state law.

      EMPLOYEES

      3. Current Employees who receive their final classification or a change in classification as a Level 2 or Level 3 sex offender during their period of employment must immediately notify the Campus Public Safety Officer. The campus public safety officer will arrange meeting with the Human Resources Manager (or designee) at the individual campus and the Registered Sex Offender employee. Campus Public Safety Officers for each college and for the district office can be found at the MCCCD Police website. The meeting with the college human resources manager and the Campus Public Safety Officer must take place within ten (10) days of the original notification to Public Safety.
      4. Potential Employees who have been classified as a Level 2 or Level 3 sex offender must notify the Campus Public Safety Officer to arrange a meeting when they are offered employment at the College. Campus Public Safety Officers for each college and for the district office can be found at the MCCCD Police website. This meeting must take place at least ten (10) calendar days prior to the start of employment. The meeting shall include the RSO, the college human resources manager and the Campus Public Safety Officer (or their designees).
5. COLLEGE OFFICIALS' MEETING WITH LEVEL 2 OR LEVEL 3 SEX OFFENDER
   
   1. After notification that a student or employee has been classified as a Level Two or Three Sex Offender, MCCCD Public Safety will collect information from the RSO student or employee, probation/parole officer, Sheriff’s Office, and/or arresting agency regarding the type of crime, conditions for probation, and/or level of risk.
   2. For Students: MCCCD Public Safety will notify the Dean of Student Affairs (or designee) when a RSO has enrolled or expressed a desire to enroll at a MCCCD college. A representative from the Student Affairs office shall participate in the required meeting with the RSO.
      
      1. An RSO identification must be placed in the Advocate online system. The identification should include a summary of the offense/court-ordered conditions in place upon release, information from the parole/probation officer, and possible interventions needed at the college/District level.
   3. For Employees: MCCCD Public Safety will notify District and college Human Resources (or designee) when an RSO has registered due to being offered employment with the MCCCD or is a current employee who has been classified as a Level Two or Three Sex Offender.  A representative from District and the identified college’s Human Resources department shall participate in the required meeting with the RSO.
      
      1. An RSO identification must be placed in the employee’s personnel file. The identification should include a summary of the offense/court-ordered conditions in place upon release, information from the parole/probation officer, and possible interventions needed at the college/District level.
   4. At the meeting referred to above, the student or employee who is classified as a Level Two or Three sex offender will be advised of the following information:
      
      1. The College’s knowledge of his/her final classification.
      2. The College’s obligation to provide public access to Level 2 & 3 sex offender information through its Department of Public Safety.
      3. Any restrictions that will be imposed on the sex offender—based on any Court restrictions, restraining orders, or orders of protection that may be in place—and the duration of such restrictions.
      4. If the offender is classified at Level 3, he/she is further informed of:
         
         1. The College’s policy of posting notice at each college campus within two (2) days of receipt of the RSO’s information, regardless of when the meeting occurs.
         2. The Level 3 RSO will receive a copy of the community notification the College intends to post.
         3. The functional areas of the College which will be provided with the public notification that will be posted.
      5. At any time, the Department of Public Safety can communicate with the offender’s parole/probation officer.
      6. For Scottsdale Community College (SCC): Since SCC is located within the geographic borders of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community, Registered Sex Offenders Students must adhere to additional community regulations. Beyond meeting with SCC's Office of Public Safety, RSO's must register and meet with the Sex Offender unit at the Salt River Police Department. This meeting must take place prior to the beginning of the semester the RSO wishes to attend.  The RSO must also meet with the Sex Offender unit at the Salt River Police Department every three months they attend SCC. 
6. FERPA: The CSCPA further amends the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) to clarify that nothing in the Act can prohibit an educational institution from disclosing information provided to the institution concerning the presence of registered sex offenders.
7. ANNUAL AND OFF-CYCLE REVIEWS: Public Safety and the Student Affairs Dean (or designee) or Human Resources representative, depending on the status of the RSO, shall meet on an annual basis to review the conditions of enrollment, employment, and campus engagement. Additional, off cycle, reviews should be conducted when an RSO student or employee transfers within MCCCD or new information about criminal conduct has been received. District imposed conditions may be removed, added, or altered based on changes in enrollment location(s), legal case status, new criminal activity, and/or disciplinary standing. Both Public Safety and Dean of Students or Human Resources professionals, for students and employees, respectively, shall maintain documentation regarding all initial, annual, and off-cycle meetings and reviews.
8. FAILURE TO NOTIFY CAMPUS ADMINISTRATION: Failure to notify campus administration, as outlined in this procedure, of one’s status as a RSO may lead to discipline up to and including removal from classes and/or suspension from participation in academic or extra-curricular programs, termination from employment as well as possible criminal penalty as outlined in Arizona state law.
9. CAMPUS AND COMMUNITY NOTIFICATION OF RSO STATUS: Pursuant to Arizona law, the MCCCD shall make campus notifications of RSO status, as follows:
   
   1. For level two and level three offenders, the MCCCD Public Safety Office, in conjunction with the Public Safety office at each college will coordinate with the local law enforcement agency responsible for the individual community notifications to ensure the sex offender notification is provided to the individual campus community.
   2. The Sex Offender Information and Notification website will host the notification of RSO’s employed by or attending a MCCCD college, including employment with the District office. 
   3. For Colleges with facilities off-site from the main campuses that receive a registered sex offender community notification flyer from a local law enforcement agency, building managers are advised to post the flyer the building’s common area easily accessed by students, staff, and faculty for a at least thirty (30) days. Specific information and instructions related to the community notification will be contained in the flyer and such instructions should be followed.
   4. Any criminal activity involving a registered sex offender should be reported to police.
10. ADMINISTRATIVE OVERSIGHT:
    
    1. Students: A campus administrator has the right to, at her or his discretion, require currently enrolled RSOs to attend regular meetings. The meetings will serve as a way to monitor compliance with conditions for enrollment and assist with student success. The frequency, duration, attendees to the meeting, and location of the meetings will vary based upon the needs of the RSO.
    2. Employees: A supervisor, in conjunction with a Human Resources representative, at her or his discretion, may require currently employed RSOs to attend regular meetings. The meetings will serve as a way to monitor compliance with conditions for employment and assist with student success. The frequency, duration, attendees to the meeting, and location of the meetings will vary based upon the needs of the RSO.

S-19 Individual Use of Intellectual Property Request Form 

As required by the Maricopa County Community College District (MCCCD) Administrative Regulation 2.11, Student-Athlete Name, Image, Likeness (NIL) Activity, and Arizona law, MCCCD student-athletes may not use MCCCD’s intellectual property, including registered trademarks, copyrights, official logos, marks, or colors without the written approval of the respective MCCCD College Athletic Department. If use of MCCCD intellectual property is authorized, it must be used properly and within established guidelines (see here: Brand Guidelines). 

This request form should be submitted to the student’s Athletic Director and the MCCCD Marketing Department. This form must be submitted for review five (5) business days in advance of the proposed student-athlete NIL use of MCCCD intellectual property. 

Questions may be addressed to the individual college Athletic Director, or the District Office of Compliance at compliance@domail.maricopa.edu.

USE OF MCCCD INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY FOR NIL ACTIVITIES WITHOUT THE

PRIOR PERMISSION OF MCCCD IS PROHIBITED.

S-19 Individual Use of Intellectual Property Request Form 

1. Compassionate Withdrawal Process 
   This process applies to students enrolled at Maricopa Community Colleges who are unable to continue their enrollment due to a sudden emergency or severe change in personal circumstances, when other accommodations (e.g., an incomplete grade) are not possible. Students may request a compassionate withdrawal for non-medical issues preventing enrollment continuation. Compassionate withdrawal may be considered for situations such as caring for a seriously ill family member or a death in the family, which prevents the student from continuing their enrollment.

   In the event that a student is unable to submit the request on their own (unable to verbally communicate), a parent and/or guardian and/or spouse may do so on their behalf with appropriate documentation to comply with FERPA regulations.

   If a compassionate withdrawal is awarded, the student is granted a full-term withdrawal across all registered courses and campuses, and the transcript will denote “compassionate withdrawal” along with “W” grades for the semester (the specific reason will not be identified to maintain privacy). Refund appeals are a separate process and are student-initiated upon submission of a completed refund exceptions appeal form. 

   The student may also be referred to the appropriate faculty or staff for additional resources and support through their return to campus in accordance with campus procedures and District policies.

   Aside from a full-term compassionate withdrawal, a student may officially withdraw from specific courses - see AR 2.3.6 Withdrawal for general student withdrawal procedures.

2. Compassionate Withdrawal Procedure
   Students must submit a completed Compassionate Withdrawal form along with relevant documentation to the Admissions and Records office. A committee composed of the Admissions and Records Director, Financial Aid Director, Counseling Faculty, Disability Resource Services Manager, Care Team Chair (if applicable), the Student Affairs Dean, Academic Affairs Dean, and other college representatives as appropriate will review the request. Committee decisions are final.

   Documentation needs will change based on unique circumstances and should be relevant to the case at hand. For example, if applying for a compassionate withdrawal to look after a seriously ill family member, the necessary information might resemble that required for medical withdrawals. Depending on the specific scenario, other forms of acceptable documentation could be police reports, legal papers such as restraining orders, proof of travel such as airline ticket receipts, among others.

3. Impact of a Withdrawal
   Tuition adjustments align with the college's refund policy. The withdrawal may affect financial aid eligibility, veterans benefits, scholarships, visa status, and academic/program progress requirements. Tuition refunds are not guaranteed, even with compassionate withdrawal approval.
    
4. Responsible Official
   The Dean of Student Affairs, inconjunction with the Director of Admissions and Records, oversee this process. Inquiries should be directed to the Dean of Student Affairs.