Introduction to STRF

The Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) serves as a financial safety net for students enrolled in qualifying private postsecondary institutions in California, including vocational schools , colleges, and universities. Managed by the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education (BPPE) , the STRF aims to mitigate economic losses that students might endure due to institutional closure, loss of accreditation, or other qualifying events.

Recent Changes in 2024

Effective April 1, 2024, the STRF regulations were significantly updated: the assessment rate was reduced to zero dollars ($0.00) per one thousand dollars ($1,000) of institutional charges, according to the California Code of Regulations (5, CCR section 76120). Despite this change, institutions must submit STRF Assessment Reporting Forms quarterly and maintain necessary records for students eligible under STRF.

STRF Collection and Reporting Requirements

Institutions must adhere to several critical procedures to comply with STRF requirements:

STRF Disclosures: Both the enrollment agreement and the school catalog must include STRF disclosures outlining the fund’s purpose and the student’s rights and responsibilities (5 CCR Section 76215).

Read more about this article Understanding BPPE’s Role and Your Responsibilities

Assessment Collection: While the assessment rate is zero, the collection and reporting process remains. The STRF fee, if applicable, must be collected at the time of the first payment post-enrollment (5 CCR section 76130).

Quarterly Reporting: Institutions must complete and submit the required STRF Assessment Reporting Form to the BPPE by the last day of the month following the quarter’s end.

Key Questions and Answers on STRF

How is the STRF Assessment Fee calculated?

With the 2024 update, the STRF assessment fee is zero per one thousand dollars of institutional charges. This fee is to be collected from students who are California residents or are enrolled in a California residency program at the time of their first payment.

What are the deadlines for STRF reporting?

Institutions must submit their STRF reporting forms quarterly by the last day of the month following the quarter’s close.

What changes were introduced in 2024?

The major change in 2024 is the reduction of the STRF assessment fee to zero, which simplifies students’ financial obligations but maintains the institutions’ administrative duties in terms of record-keeping and reporting.

Does the STRF Assessment Fee apply to all students?

The STRF fee applies only to California residents or students enrolled in a California residency program. It only applies to students whose tuition is fully covered by third-party payers like VA or other state sources if the institution chooses to cover it on behalf of the student.

Conclusion

The adjustments to the STRF assessment fee and the ongoing requirements for higher education institutions under the BPPE reflect California’s commitment to protecting its students while simplifying some financial aspects. For college owners and administrators, understanding and adhering to these regulations is crucial for compliance and providing their students with the necessary information and protection. As an accreditation expert consultant, ensuring that your institution is up to date with these regulations is one of the essential steps in maintaining operational integrity and trust with your student community.

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