MSCHE Submits Comments to USDE Regarding Requirements and Responsibilities for Third-Party Servicers and Institutions

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

President Dr. Heather F. Perfetti submitted a letter on behalf of the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) in response to the request for information by the United States Department of Education (USDE) regarding requirements and responsibilities for third-party servicers and institutions.

As stated in the announcement, “the Department will accept public comment on the guidance through the Regulations.gov website for 30 days (Docket ID ED-2022-OPE-0103). We will consider those comments and publish any relevant changes based upon that feedback at a later date.” USDE Notice Regarding Third-party Servicer Guidance

On February 21 and March 16, 2023, MSCHE encouraged member institutions to submit written comments regarding the third-party service provider requirements and responsibilities to the Department.

Read Advocacy Alert: Institutions are Encouraged to Comment on the USDE Updated Third-party Service Provider Guidance

Read Advocacy Alert: USDE Third-party Service Provider Guidance Comment Period Extended

“With regard to our agency’s accreditation review cycle and monitoring procedures, attention is placed upon what we refer to as third-party providers,” stated Dr. Perfetti in the letter. “Existing MSCHE policy, procedures, standards, and requirements attempt to balance the need for innovation by institutions that is grounded in best practices with awareness of the challenges that third-party provider arrangements can present.”

Click to read the full letter.