Admissions and Financial Aid

Admissions

Berea College's commitment to serving students from Southern Appalachia and the Commonwealth of Kentucky is demonstrated by the fact that 74 percent of the student population comes from that region. The student body represents all 40 states nationally and 70 other countries. In keeping with its abolitionist roots and commitment to social justice, Berea College seeks to serve "all peoples of the earth" and places particular emphasis on interracial and intercultural education, as well as service-based learning initiatives. Because Berea also is committed to serving those students with demonstrated economic need, the College restricts admission to promising students whose families cannot finance a comparable college education without significant assistance. Thus, financial need is a requirement for admission. Furthermore, the College restricts admission to students who have not previously earned a Bachelor's degree. At Berea College, we combine our resources and those our students have available to them to pay for the costs of going to college. Thanks to our Tuition Promise Scholarship and our unique financial aid program, Berea students do not pay tuition and only pay a portion of the costs for housing and meals. Students graduate from Berea with a high quality education, practical experience from the College's Work program, and one of the lowest average student debt levels in the United States.

Introduction

Berea College has a national reputation for academic excellence. Therefore, a Berea education is highly prized, and admission is competitive. The College seeks to enroll students who possess limited financial resources and who are motivated to grow intellectually and personally in an environment shaped by Berea’s Great Commitments.

In the admissions process, emphasis is placed on the candidate’s academic record, particularly the kind and strength of courses taken and the grades earned. The College recommends, but does not require, that applicants complete the following high-school academic distribution:

• Four units of English (including composition, rhetoric, and literature)
• Three units of Mathematics (at least Algebra I, Algebra II, and Geometry)
• Two units of Laboratory Science
• Two units of Social Science/History (including World History)
• Two units of Foreign Language

Those wishing to explore whether they meet the financial criterion for admission to Berea College may use the following table as an approximate guide or go to www.berea.edu/qualify to complete an online quick estimator.  NOTE: Families with members who are eligible for certain types of state or federal financial assistance (SSI, Food Stamps, Free or Reduced Lunch, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, or WIC) are very likely to meet Berea Financial Requirements.

The amount that Berea College charges a student for housing and meals varies in accordance with his or her family’s ability to contribute toward these expenses. The average first-year student pays $1,000 annually toward these costs, but will earn $1,900 in the Labor Program their first year. The average student-loan debt of Berea graduates is $6,000 after four years, compared to the national average of $30,000. One out of every three Berea students graduate debt-free. Those who do receive student loans frequently use these funds to help finance educational experiences abroad in such locations as Africa, Asia, Australia, Central and South America, and Europe. Approximately forty percent (40%) of the College’s graduates spend some time abroad during their student experience at Berea.

All applicants who meet the faculty-established minimum criteria for admission to the College (ACT Composite score of 19, SAT of 1330 if taken before 3/2016, or SAT of 980 if taken after 3/2016 and rank in the top three-fifths of the high-school class) must participate in a personal interview with an Admissions Counselor. Unless an applicant has recently visited campus, most interviews will take place on campus as a component of a formal campus visit. Reservations for visits to campus must be made at least one week in advance of the visit. In keeping with Berea’s commitment to serving those with limited economic resources, the College does not charge an application fee.

Generally, admitted students may not defer enrollment. However, a student with a compelling reason may request deferment of enrollment to a subsequent term by writing a letter to the Director of Admissions stating the reason for the request. All requests are considered by the Enrollment Policies Committee and decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.

Applying as a Freshman

Berea College accepts academically capable students who are driven toward success, are not afraid to work hard to achieve their goals, and wish to make a difference in the world. In recent years, admitted applicants have ranked in the top 20 percent of their high-school graduating class, have a high-school cumulative GPA of 3.45 or higher, and have scored between 20 and 30 on the ACT or SAT equivalent.

The admissions process conducts a holistic review of each applicant. Many factors are considered in the selection of an applicant, including a properly completed application, personal interview, official academic records, test scores and financial eligibility. In addition to these components, we value recommendations/endorsements, extracurricular and co-curricular activities (e.g. music ensembles, athletics, theatre), community service, character and personal qualities.

Berea College operates as rolling admissions; however interested students are strongly encouraged to apply early and meet deadlines: October 31 (Priority Deadline) and March 31 (Final Deadline). Well qualified applicants may be accepted for fall admission as early as November. Though an early application alone will not insure admission to the College, some advantage may be realized by those who apply before October 31 because the selection process becomes more competitive after that date. The final deadline for international applications is November 30.

The College maintains an admissions policy where all applicants are considered regardless of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, national origin, political affiliation, disabling condition, or service in the uniformed services.

To be considered for admission to Berea College as a first-year student, an applicant must participate in a personal interview with an admissions counselor and submit the following materials:

• A completed Application for Admission and Scholarship form.
• A completed Financial Resource Questionnaire.
• The Guidance Counselor Evaluation Form (to be completed by the high-school guidance counselor; GED holders and home-school applicants need not submit this form).
• Official high-school transcript (GED holders should submit official GED scores in lieu of high-school transcripts; home-schooled students should submit the Home-School Supplement Form if no transcript is available).
• Official ACT or SAT I scores.
• A completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). 
• Two Evaluation & Endorsement Forms, each from a former teacher, principal, or other school administrator (unless applicant has not recently been enrolled, in which case, evaluation and endorsement forms from professionals in non-educational fields and/or other community leaders will be accepted).

Credit by Examination

There are several options for receiving credit by examination—College Board Advanced Placement (AP) examinations, the College Level Examination Program (CLEP), International Baccalaureate (IB), and A-Levels (Cambridge Exam). 

NOTE: No examination can be used to satisfy any of the five core classes within the General Education curriculum, including GSTR 110, GSTR 210, GSTR 310, GSTR 332, and GSTR 410.

College Board AP Examinations

To receive AP credit, the student must have taken AP courses in high school and must sit for AP examinations at a high school or college, or at a college testing center location. Academic credit is awarded for scores of 4 or higher. For information on equivalencies see below.  To receive credit, official AP scores must be received directly from the College Board--Berea College's Board Code is 1060.

College Level Examination Program (CLEP)

By Faculty action, students will receive credit for CLEP scores at the level determined by department. The action further provided that, if the department has not established a passing score, the student will receive credit if his or her score is at or above the mean for national private liberal-arts colleges.

1. Credit is limited to introductory courses; exceptions must be approved by the appropriate Department Chair and the Registrar.
2. Credit is granted at or above a score that correlates to a final course grade of “B,” unless additional departmental requirements have been established.
3. No credit is granted for a subject in which the student is required to take a basic (non-credit) course.
4. No credit is granted after college work has been attempted in the same subject area.

International Baccalaureate

IB Credit is awarded for Higher Level (HL) exams with a score of 4 or higher.  Official scores must be submitted directly to Berea College by the IB program.

A-Level Exams

Berea College accepts Cambridge A-Level exams with a grade of C or higher. Credit is determined by the Registrar's Office in consultation with the appropriate academic department. 

Course Credit and Equivalent

Berea College is on the course credit system.  In general, 32 credits are required to earn a degree.  One Berea course credit equals 4 semester hours or 6 quarter hours. A transfer course must be equal to a minimum of 3 semester hours or 4.5 quarter hours to receive equivalent credit for a Berea course or to meet a General Education requirement (except for Lifetime Health and Fitness courses).

Below is a credit conversion chart to help determine transfer credit equivalencies:

Also see “Transfer Credit” in the Admissions section of this publication.

Applying as a Transfer Student

The final deadline for completed applications from transfer students is April 15.

Berea College accepts a limited number of transfer students. In recent years, most admitted transfer applicants have accumulated no more than 70 credit hours elsewhere, have preesented a collegiate grade point average (GPA) of at least 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) and have been in good academic and disciplinary standing at the college or university they most recently attended.

Transfer applicants with courses currently in progress must submit final transcripts reflecting no less than a 2.5 cumulative GPA in the most recent 24 hours of courses taken.

The admissions process conducts a holistic review of each applicant.  Many factors are considered in the selection of an applicant, including a properly completed application, official academic records, test scores (if a transfer applicant has fewer than 24 completed college credit hours at the time they apply) and financial eligibility. In addition to these components, we value recommendations/endorsements, extracurricular and co-curricular activities (e.g. music ensembles, athletics, theatre), community service, character and personal qualities. Transfer applicants may be asked to complete a personal interview as part of the application process.

The College maintains an admissions policy where all applicants are considered regardless of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, national origin, political affiliation, disabling condition, or service in the uniformed services.  

To be considered for admission to Berea College as a transfer student, an applicant must submit the following materials:

• A completed Application for Admission and Scholarship form.
• A completed Financial Resource Questionnaire.
• Official college/university transcripts from all institutions attended.
• Official high-school transcript (GED holders should submit official GED scores in lieu of high-school transcripts; home-schooled students should submit the Home-School Supplement Form if no transcript is available).
• Official ACT or SAT I scores (if fewer than 24 transferable college credits have been completed).
• A completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).
• A Statement of Good Standing form to be completed by the Dean of Students from each institution previously attended. This form must be sent directly from that office and cannot be turned in by the applicant.
• Two Evaluation & Endorsement Forms, each from a former professor or school administrator (unless applicant has not recently been enrolled, in which case, evaluation and endorsement forms from professionals in non-educational fields and/or other community leaders will be accepted). 

Transfer Student Enrollment Policies

Policies related to transfer student enrollment include:

• One academic year on campus residence is required of all degree-seeking candidates, except for non-traditional students who live off campus.
• Students completing a college-level composition course with a grade of B or higher may waive GSTR 110.  If GSTR 110 is waived, GSTR 210 must be taken in the first term of enrollment.  
• Students requiring Developmental Math must maintain continuous enrollment until the Developmental Math sequence is completed.
• Transfer students are subject to the eight-term limit with incoming transfer credit counting against the limit. Terms are charged using the following rule: the equivalent of 4 Berea credits is equal to one term.  For example, a student with 16 semester hours (4 Berea credits) will be charged one term and a student with 32 semester hours (8 Berea credits) will be charged 2 terms, etc.  For more information see Course Credit and Equivalent and to appeal for additional terms see Eight-Term Rule and Extension of Terms.

Transfer Credit

Only courses and earned credits completed with a grade of C or higher at a regionally accredited institution within 10 years of initial enrollment at Berea are transferable to Berea College. The amount of credit granted by the original institution will be honored by Berea and transposed into comparable course credits or fractions of course credits. If not accepted to meet a specific requirement, such credit can be accepted as an elective credit. One course credit at Berea represents four semester hours or six quarter hours elsewhere. No credit is granted for developmental courses or other courses not at the college level, as defined by that institution (typically courses numbered below 100, such as 090 or 36B).

Credit for a course in which a P, S, or credit grade has been earned will be granted only upon verification from the institution that work in the course was completed at a C level or above.

International Students: College- or university-level academic credit will NOT be evaluated for the possibility of transfer credit unless the applicant indicates the name and dates of attendance for any other college or university on the application for admission.

For information on how Berea course credits equal semester or quarter hours, please see Course Credit and Equivalent.

Math Placement

Development Math is required for graduation.  Part or all of the Developmental Math sequence can be waived for students earning particular scores on the ACT, SAT, or by waiver examination.  Students earning a 20 or higher on the Math ACT and a 10 or higher on the algebra sub-score waive the Developmental Math requirement (520 on the SAT Math). In addition, incoming students who transfer a college course that meets Berea's Practical Reasoning (Quantitative) requirement are waived from Developmental Math.  See additional details about the Developmental Math Requirement under degree requirements. 

Placement in credit-bearing math courses is determined by examination. 

Time Limit for Earned Credit

All course credits used to satisfy Berea’s degree requirements must have been earned within 10 years of the date of the student’s initial enrollment at Berea College or at another regionally accredited institution. An exception to this rule may be granted with approval of both the Academic Program Council and the Department Chair for the department in which the student is majoring or plans to major.

Berea’s Admissions Territory

In keeping with its historic commitment to serving the Appalachian region, Berea College admits 70-80 percent of its students from counties in nine states that fall within Berea’s special “admissions territory.” These counties, many of which are located in Appalachia, are listed below. Students from approximately 40 states nationally and 70 other countries make up the remaining 20 percent of Berea’s student population.

Alabama

Blount, Calhoun, Cherokee, Cullman, DeKalb, Etowah, Jackson, Jefferson, Limestone, Madison, Marshall, Morgan, St. Clair, Shelby, Talladega

Georgia

Bartow, Catoosa, Chattooga, Cherokee, Dade, Dawson, Fannin, Floyd, Forsyth, Gilmer, Gordon, Habersham, Lumpkin, Murray, Pickens, Rabun, Towns, Union, Walker, White, Whitfield

Kentucky

All counties

North Carolina

Alexander, Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Buncombe, Burke, Caldwell, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Henderson, Jackson, Macon, Madison, McDowell, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Stokes, Surry, Swain, Transylvania, Watauga, Wilkes, Yancey

Ohio

Adams, Athens, Brown, Clermont, Gallia, Hamilton, Highland, Hocking, Jackson, Lawrence, Meigs, Noble, Perry, Pike, Ross, Scioto, Vinton, Washington

South Carolina

Greenville, Oconee, Spartanburg

Tennessee

Anderson, Bedford, Bledsoe, Blount, Bradley, Campbell, Cannon, Carter, Cheatham, Claiborne, Clay, Cocke, Coffee, Cumberland, Davidson, DeKalb, Dickson, Fentress, Franklin, Giles, Grainger, Greene, Grundy, Hamblen, Hamilton, Hancock, Hawkins, Hickman, Jackson, Jefferson, Johnson, Knox, Lawrence, Lewis, Lincoln, Loudon, Macon, Marion, Marshall, Maury, McMinn, Meigs, Monroe, Moore, Morgan, Overton, Pickett, Polk, Putnam, Rhea, Roane, Robertson, Rutherford, Scott, Sequatchie, Sevier, Smith, Sullivan, Sumner, Trousdale, Unicoi, Union, Van Buren, Warren, Washington, Wayne, White, Williamson, Wilson

Virginia

Alleghany, Amherst, Augusta, Bath, Bedford, Bland, Botetourt, Buchanan, Carroll, Clarke, Craig, Dickenson, Floyd, Franklin, Frederick, Giles, Grayson, Highland, Lee, Loudoun, Montgomery, Nelson, Page, Patrick, Pulaski, Roanoke, Rockbridge, Rockingham, Russell, Shenandoah, Smyth, Tazewell, Wise, Wythe

West Virginia

Barbour, Boone, Braxton, Cabell, Calhoun, Clay, Doddridge, Fayette, Gilmer, Grant, Greenbrier, Hampshire, Hardy, Harrison, Jackson, Jefferson, Kanawha, Lewis, Lincoln, Logan, Marion, Mason, McDowell, Mercer, Mineral, Mingo, Monongalia, Monroe, Nicholas, Pendleton, Pleasants, Pocahontas, Preston, Putnam, Raleigh, Randolph, Ritchie, Roane, Summers, Taylor, Tucker, Tyler, Upshur, Wayne, Webster, Wirt, Wood, Wyoming

Student Health Services Admissions Requirements

New or transfer students must submit the medical history form, TB risk Assessment form and a copy of their immunization record prior to the beginning of their first term on campus.

Students matriculating at Berea College are required to have the following immunizations: DPT series with current Td or Tdap booster (within 10 years); polio series; meningococal after the age of 16; and two measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) injections after the first birthday. Immunization for hepatitis A & B, chicken pox and HPV, while not required, are highly recommended. 

Exceptions to this policy may be made for a documented allergy to substances in one or more of these vaccines or on the basis of a sincere and genuine religious belief prohibiting a particular immunization. Such a medical or religious waiver must have been applied for on the appropriate College form and granted by Student Health Services at the time of enrollment.

Financial Aid and Student Accounts

Berea’s Extraordinary Financial Plan

The cost to Berea College of providing educational opportunities (tuition) for 2017-2018 is $25,200 per student. Students admitted by the College are guaranteed substantial financial aid through resources other than their parent(s)—e.g., through outside scholarships, federal aid, and grants from participation in the College’s work program—sufficient to cover tuition. All students are encouraged to apply for outside scholarships to help the college cover the cost of tuition, if students are not able to obtain scholarships to cover tuition, the College alumni and donors will help make up the difference. Most students receive additional grant assistance to help with the costs of housing, meals, and fees according to the families’ ability to pay as determined from family information submitted on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

The Financial Aid Program of Berea College is based on the principle of providing the best possible education for the least cost to the student. Many generations of donors to Berea College have provided a remarkable endowment and tuition replacement fund whereby no admitted student is asked to pay any out-of-pocket expenses for tuition, or what we refer to tuition.

Tuition is guaranteed to each student and is met through a combination of federal and state programs, donor-designated gifts, College funds, and outside scholarship awards. (See Student Expenses below for additional costs related to a Berea College education.)

In addition, Berea provides all first-year students with a laptop computer that is theirs to keep upon graduation. (See the Information Systems & Services section of this Catalog & Student Handbook for more information.) Financial aid may be available for some special learning opportunities such as education abroad, internship, and domestic independent and team-initiated studies. (See Opportunities Common to Many Fields of Study section of this publication.)

The College assures that each student’s demonstrated financial need, as determined through a needs analysis system on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), will be met. This is accomplished through  partnership with the student’s and family’s resources, the College’s work program, the Federal Work-Study program, public and private grants and scholarships, and, finally, a College grant or loan covering any remaining need.

Meeting the Cost of Education (2017-2018)

Student Expenses

Student Expenses

A student and his or her family are responsible for the costs listed in the chart below. However, for those who qualify on the basis of need—and most students do—financial aid is available to defray all or part of these costs. The average amount freshmen paid last year was approximately $1,500 for these costs, not including contributions from the Labor Program. Fewer than five percent of Berea students are asked to cover the full cost of housing, meals, and fees.

Costs of attendance for the required Fall and Spring terms are as follows:

Expenses for Which the Student is Responsible

Additional Expenses (Vary by Student*)

* Estimated additional costs for academic year 2017-2018 may include fees for courses that include laboratory sessions or special supplies and are listed in course descriptions in this Catalog under Academic Departments and Courses.

Student Health Insurance

Beginning August 1, 2015, the College will not provide an Affordable Care-Act (ACA) compliant insurance plan for students.  Students are expected, along with parents, to be in an ACA-compliant insurance plan.  For the 2017-18 academic year, the College will require students without insurance coverage in Kentucky to be enrolled in the College's non-ACA compliant plan.

Students’ dependents may be added to the College plan at an additional premium.

Policy benefits and exclusions are explained in a brochure sent to each student along with an insurance card. This card must be presented when seeking medical care, other than at White House Clinic - Student Health Services.  The Student Health Services staff may assist with this task.  For more information visit http://www.whitehouseclinics.com/index.htm

Prescriptions are not covered by the College health-insurance policy.

Questions regarding student health insurance fees should be directed to Student Financial Aid Services, ext. 3310.

Case Managers at Student Health Services may be able to assist students with insurance questions at 859-985-1415

Scholarships, Grants, Labor Earnings, and Loans

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are monetary gifts for which repayment is not required. Some scholarship and grant monies defray the cost of tuition and essential student expenses, and others are used for special purposes or programs. Many scholarships and grants are reserved for students who meet specific criteria without the need for special application procedures. (See Scholarships, Awards, and Prizes section for details about some of these institutional scholarships and grants.)

In addition to institutional scholarship and grant funds, Berea College participates in the following federal and state programs providing student aid that does not require repayment: Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Kentucky College Access Grants, Kentucky Tuition Grants, and Kentucky Educational Excellence Scholarships (KEES).

Earnings from Work

An integral form of financial assistance at Berea College is available through the Student Labor Program. All students enrolled in an academic term (Fall, Spring, Summer) earn a work scholarship, in which a portion of that, the Labor Grant, is applied directly to the tuition each term. The amount applied is: $3,500 (Fall); $3,500 (Spring); and a pro-ration for summer term(s). The final portion of the work scholarship is the primary source of direct aid, providing $1,900 to $2,800 per year to assist in covering educational costs and personal expenses. Based on the total work scholarship and total hours worked per term, a student receives between $21 and $24 per hour in scholarship. The direct aid portion received (based on hours worked), in combination with the student’s earnings on and off campus during the summer months, are used to pay a portion of the student’s housing, meals, personal expenses, fees, and other educational expenses incurred during the academic year. Therefore, no student nor their parent can claim the federal tuition tax credit for tax purposes.

Berea College expects every student to save approximately $900 from summer earnings to assist with costs associated with attendance. While the College does not bill students for an additional $900 as a result of the summer savings expectation, some students choose to use their savings to assist with their Term Bill. Ideally, when the Term Bill obligation is met through the family’s contribution, the summer savings can be used to assist with indirect college expenses like transportation, books, supplies, personal, and miscellaneous expenses. Jobs available on campus for those who wish to remain in Berea during the summer are paid at a rate sufficient, with careful budgeting, to save approximately $900. However, some students find it easier to save summer earnings when living at home in a rent-free environment.

Loans

Low-interest, long-term loans may be obtained from Berea College when needed to pay essential school expenses. Loans are not a part of the student's initial aid package.  Students need to contact Student Financial Aid Services to inquire about other options before considering a loan. Most loans do not accrue interest as long as the borrower is a full-time student. Long-term loans become due six months after graduation or withdrawal from college and must be repaid within an agreed upon schedule. Special non-interest-bearing loans are available to students who have significant financial need and who plan to serve in the Appalachian region after graduation.

Berea College also participates in the Federal Perkins Loan Program and the William D. Ford Direct Loan Program, both of which have fixed interest rates. For more detailed information concerning the financial assistance program, please contact the Student Financial Aid Services Office at (859) 985-3310. The Federal government will determine the rate of interest each year depending on amounts agreed upon by Congress.

Financial Aid Eligibility and Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)

Berea College expects all enrolled students to make Satisfactory Academic Progress toward completion of degree requirements. The status of 'Academic Probation' is assigned to a student who is not making sufficient progress but for whom institutional support and student initiative is likely to result in academic improvement. The status of 'Academic Suspension' is assigned to a student who has not demonstrated the capacity or motivation to engage successfully the Academic Program.

The Student Admissions and Academic Standing (SAAS) Committee is responsible for defining the conditions and duration of Academic Probation and Suspension, in keeping with standards adopted by the College Faculty. Making and maintaining Satisfactory Academic Progress (as specified in the chart that follows) is a condition of continued enrollment and eligibility for Title IV (federal) and state financial-aid programs. (Also see “Academic Difficulty” under Academic Performance Standards.)

Federal regulations that govern Title IV financial-aid programs (e.g. Pell Grants, etc.) and state grants require that Satisfactory Academic Progress be made as outlined in the chart below in order for financial-aid eligibility to be maintained.

Students who fail to make Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) may lose their eligibility for Title IV federal financial aid. SAP is measured by two components—qualitative and quantitative.

Qualitative

In order to meet qualitative SAP standards, a student must earn the cumulative GPA as indicated in the chart on the Academic Services site.     

Students must complete the total number of course credits per year based on the student’s academic year as listed in this chart.

For financial-aid purposes, a maximum of six (6) academic years will be permitted to complete a baccalaureate program (See Review below.) Courses for which a student receives grades of “F” (Failing) or “W,” “WP,” or “WF” (Withdrawn, Withdrawn Passing, or Withdrawn Failing, respectively) will not be counted as earned courses, but will be counted toward courses attempted. Incomplete courses will not be counted until a grade is assigned. An excessive number of course repetitions will be considered not making SAP. Transfer courses accepted at Berea will be counted toward the total number of courses attempted.  An extension of terms, if approved by the SAAS Committee, will also be considered as meeting SAP if they follow the guidelines below.

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) will be reviewed at the end of each term. Students who do not meet SAP standards will be subject to a probationary period lasting up to one (1) regular term. During this probationary period, students still may receive financial aid. A student who is meeting minimum SAP standards at the end of the first financial aid probationary term will be returned to good standing to receive financial aid. A student who is not meeting minimum SAP standards after one (1) regular term on probation will be placed on financial aid warning, and must submit a written appeal to the SAP coordinator in SFAS.  The SAP Coordinator will be able to approve or deny the appeal based on the extenuating circumstances and a well written appeal outlining steps to regain good standing.  If the appeal is denied and the student remains in school, no federal, state, or institutional funds will be awarded.  If the appeal is approved, the student will again be placed on financial aid probation. 

Due to the College's eight-term limit, appeals for enrollment beyond eight regular terms will be reviewed through the Student Admissions and Academic Standing (SAAS) Committee and, if approved for an extension of terms, will be considered in good standing for SAP as long as the student follows the curriculum plan (or its equivalent), receives the required GPA as outlined on the SAP chart and will be able to graduate on time.  Students who are participating in any of the Study Abroad Programs will not be reviewed for SAP until their transcripts are received from their programs.

Appeal

Students who lose their Title IV financial aid eligibility due to failure to maintain SAP have an opportunity to appeal. Written appeals must include both an explanation of the circumstances that kept the student from making SAP for the designated period and a plan of action for improvement and be sent to the Student Financial Aid Services SAP Coordinator. Appeals will be due within 14 days of notification of failing to meet SAP. A review of the appeal and decision will occur within 14 days of receipt of the appeal. If an appeal is denied, interest-bearing college loans may be available to help cover any grant aid lost. Information on refunds may be obtained from the Student Financial Aid Services office.

Reinstatement of Title IV Aid Eligibility

Students will be considered in good standing in regard to financial aid eligibility when they again meet the minimum SAP standards as listed in the SAP Chart or receive approval of a submitted appeal. Sitting out for any length of time does not affect a student’s SAP standing. Students who re-enroll after a period of absence are required to submit an appeal when they return in order to determine financial-aid eligibility. (See “Academic Standing and Reinstatement to Good Standing” in the Enrollment and Registration section of this publication for more information.)

Drug Violations Penalties and Financial Aid Eligibility

Under Section 485 and 484r of the Higher Education Act, students become ineligible for federal student aid upon conviction during any period of enrollment of any offense involving the possession or sale of illegal drugs. Federal aid includes Federal Pell Grants, Federal Work Study, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Federal Direct Loans, Federal Direct PLUS Loans, and Federal Perkins Loans.

Penalties for Drug Convictions

Ineligibility period for possession of illegal drugs (controlled substance):

• First offense: One year from the date of conviction
• Second offense: Two years from the date of conviction
• Third offense: Indefinite ineligibility from the date of conviction

• First offense: Two years from date of conviction
• Second offense: Indefinite ineligibility from the date of conviction

Regaining Eligibility

Upon successful completion of a drug rehabilitation program, aid eligibility can be reinstated as of the day the student completes the program successfully. It is the student’s responsibility to notify the Office of Student Financial Aid Services that they have completed successfully the rehabilitation program.

To be sufficient to reinstate financial aid eligibility, the program must:

• Include at least two unannounced drug tests; and
• be recognized as a Federal, State, or local government agency program

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

The FAFSA questions if the student has ever been convicted of a drug-related offense. Failure to answer the question automatically will disqualify the student from receiving Federal aid. Answering this question falsely, if discovered, could result in fines up to $20,000, imprisonment, or both.  Further guidance will be submitted on the FAFSA if the student checks that they have been convicted of any drug related crimes.

Refund Policy

College Refund Policy

The following regulations govern refunds when proper procedures for withdrawal as outlined in this publication have been adhered to:

Meal Charges - A student who withdraws before the end of a term is entitled to a refund of half of the unexpired portion of the meal charge.

Housing Charge - A student who withdraws during the first two weeks of a term is entitled to a refund of half the housing charge.

• Refunds are made approximately two weeks after notice of withdrawal is received and disbursed in the following order:
• Repayment of federal and state loans and grants made for the current term;
• Repayment of aid granted from Berea College funds;
• Repayment of all amounts due Berea College;
• Balance paid to student account.

Any remaining balance due Berea College must be paid before a transcript is issued. Diplomas will not be issued to students with financial obligations remaining on their Student Account.

Federal Refund Policy

A portion of Title IV grant or loan funds (except Federal Work Study) must be returned to the Title IV programs upon the recipient’s withdrawal from school.

Withdrawal Date

As determined by the school, the date the student withdraws, is the date: 1) the student began the withdrawal process prescribed by the school; 2) the student otherwise provided the school with official notification of intent to withdraw; or 3) the midpoint of the payment period or period of enrollment for which Title IV assistance was disbursed (for the student who does not begin the school’s withdrawal process or notify the school of the intent to withdraw).

If the school determines the student did not begin the withdrawal process or notify the school of the intent to withdraw—due to illness, accident, or other such circumstances beyond the student’s control—the school may determine the appropriate withdrawal date.

Percentage of the Payment Period or Period of Enrollment Completed

The percentage of the payment period or period of enrollment for which assistance was awarded that was completed is determined by dividing the total number of calendar days comprising the payment period or the period of enrollment for which assistance is awarded into the number of calendar days completed in that period as of the day the student withdrew.

Calculation of Title IV Assistance Earned

To calculate the amount of Title IV assistance earned by a student, the school first must determine the percentage of Title IV assistance the student earned. Up through the 60-percent point in time, the percentage of assistance earned is equal to the percentage of the payment period or period of enrollment for which it was awarded that was completed as of the day the student withdrew. If the student withdraws after the 60-percent point, then the percentage earned is 100 percent. That earned percentage is applied to the total amount of Title IV grant and loan assistance disbursed (and that could have been disbursed) to the student, or on the student’s behalf, for the payment period or period of enrollment for which it was awarded as of the day the student withdrew.

Calculation of Title IV Assistance Not Earned

The amount of Title IV grant and loan assistance not earned by the student is calculated by determining the complement of the percentage of assistance the student earned and applying it to the total amount of grant and loan assistance that was disbursed (and that could have been disbursed) to the student, or on the student’s behalf, for the payment period or period of enrollment as of the day the student withdrew.

Differences between Amounts Earned and Amounts Received

The school will follow the regulations for late disbursement if the student received less grant or loan assistance than the amount earned. If the student has received more grant or loan assistance than the amount earned, then the unearned funds shall be returned by the school or the student, or both.

Responsibility of the School

The school shall return the lesser of the unearned amount of Title IV assistance or an amount equal to the total institutional charges the student incurs for the payment period or period of enrollment for which the assistance was awarded, multiplied by the unearned percentage of awarded Title IV grant and loan assistance.

Responsibility of the Student

The student shall return unearned Title IV assistance minus the amount the school returns.

Special Rule

A student (or parent for PLUS loans) repays the calculated amount attributable to a Title IV loan program according to the loan’s terms. A student repays a Title IV grant program subject to repayment arrangements satisfactory to the school or the U.S. Secretary of Education’s overpayment collection procedures. A student shall not be required to return 50 percent of the unearned grant. The College will bill the student for the amount owed and collect repayment. A student who fails to repay may be referred to the U.S. Department of Education or other appropriate agency for collection. The student may be ineligible for further federal student aid funds.

Order of Return of Title IV Funds

Excess funds returned by the school or student are credited to outstanding Title IV loan balances for the student or made on the student’s behalf for which a return of funds is required. Excess funds must be credited to outstanding balances in the following order:

1. Direct William D. Ford loans
2. Federal Perkins loans
3. Direct William D. Ford PLUS loans

Remaining Excesses

If excess funds remain after repaying all outstanding loan amounts, the remaining amount is credited to grant programs in the following order:

1. Federal Pell Grants
2. Federal SEOG
3. Other Title IV assistance for which a return of funds is required.

Refund Policy and Leaves of Absence

An approved Leave of Absence is not to be treated as a withdrawal and no return of Title IV funds is calculated. A student may take a Leave of Absence from a school for not more than a total of 180 days in any 12-month period. The student must have followed the institution’s policy in requesting a Leave of Absence (see “Leaves of Absence” in the Enrollment and Registration section for more information), and the school must have approved the student’s request in accordance with its policy. If the student does not return at the expiration of an approved Leave of Absence, the school calculates the amount of Title IV grant and loan assistance that is to be returned based on the date the student began the leave.

Student Accounts, Term Bills, and Payment Plan

Upon enrollment, each student at Berea College is assigned a Student Account. This account contains charges for housing, meals, required fees, and selected educational items such as books, supplies, and institutional fees and fines. Financial aid for educational costs also is credited to this account.

To confirm enrollment and validate the student ID, the Student Account must be resolved prior to the first day of classes each term. If the account cannot be paid in full by that date, a payment plan must be arranged through the Office of Student Financial Aid Services. Payment plans may include a combination of payment by cash, check, or credit card; use of labor earnings through payroll deduction (50 percent or more); or additional aid such as institutional or federal loans.

Once the student account is paid for a prior term, students will be able to charge books through the College's on-line Bookstore.  Other educational costs and College fines also may be applied to the account. These charges and any charges remaining as part of a payment plan must be resolved in order to register for upcoming terms. (Continuing students must have paid their Term Bill below $100 before being able to register for upcoming terms.)  Student financial aid cannot be used to cover any fines.

Charges remaining on the account or incurred after registration must be resolved by the end of the term. Special financial aid for upcoming terms (e.g., grants for travel abroad) will not be released until the account balance is paid in full.

The College establishes fees and charges under the following circumstances:

• as a charge for some service or materials to be used by the student;
• as a privilege to do something out of the usual pattern;
• as a means of defraying administrative costs that are involved in making materials and services available; and/or
• as a deterrent (fine or disciplinary charge)

Fees, Fines, and Charges

Following is a list of the fees, fines, and charges currently in effect:

Appeals of Account Charges

Students have the right to appeal any charges. Appeals for parking fines/citations go to the Parking Citation Appeals Committee (through the Department of Public Safety). All other appeals are directed to the Vice President for Labor and Student Life.

The Labor Program

Introduction to the Labor Program

The Student Labor Program originated in its earliest form at Berea College in 1859 and expanded to become one of the College’s Great Commitments. The Labor Program provides economic, educational, social, personal, and spiritual benefits to students and those served by their work.

The Labor Program is designed to serve the following purposes:

• Support the total educational program at Berea College through experiences providing the learning of skills, responsibility, habits, attitudes, and processes associated with work;
• Provide and encourage opportunities for students to pay costs of board (meals), room, and related educational expenses;
• Provide staff for College operations;
• Provide opportunities for service to the community and others through labor;
• Establish a lifestyle of doing and thinking, action and reflection, and service and learning that carries on beyond the college years.

Designed to serve these multiple purposes, the program reflects a unified vision of labor as student and learning centered, as service to the College and broader community, and as necessary work well done. The administration of the program is the responsibility of the Dean of Labor.

Labor assignments function very much like classes. Beginning at entry levels of work, students are expected to progress to more skilled and responsible levels. Through these experiences, it is expected that student workers will:

1. develop good work habits and attitudes;
2. gain an understanding of personal interests, skills, and limitations; and
3. exercise creativity, problem-solving, and responsibility. Students also may learn the qualities of leadership, standard setting, and effective supervision.

The Labor Program makes it possible for students to know each other as co-workers as well as classmates. More importantly, linking the Academic and Labor programs establishes a pattern of learning through work that continues long after college.

TRACY UltraTime

TRACY UltraTime

Labor Enrollment Agreement

Signed by each student upon entering Berea College, the Labor Enrollment Agreement outlines the expectations of the student and the College with regard to the Labor Program and serves as the student’s acknowledgement of work as a core requirement of enrollment and an integral/required part of their educational program. Below is the present version of the agreement:

Labor Enrollment Agreement

The Labor Program, a comprehensive Work-Learning-Service program, is an integral and stated part of Berea College’s educational philosophy and program. Upon entering Berea College, all students sign a Labor Enrollment Agreement outlining the basic commitments of the student and the College concerning the student’s required participation in the Labor Program. This agreement is completed one time and remains in effect for the entire period of enrollment.

THE STUDENT, IN ACCEPTING ADMISSION TO THE COLLEGE, AGREES TO:

1. Participate in the Labor Program as defined in the online handbook Tools: A Guide to the Berea College Labor Program and other policy statements http://www.berea.edu/laborprogramoffice/tools/default.asp.
2. Fulfill a first-year labor assignment as assigned by the College and, in subsequent years, to secure or accept a student labor position from among those available.
3. Work no less than ten (10) hours a week throughout the term and adhere to the work schedule required by the position and arranged with the supervisor.
4. Have a completed and submitted Status Form (labor position participation agreement) for each position held, or for any change in position, as a supplement to the Labor Enrollment Agreement and as approved by the Labor Program and Student Payment Office.
5. Work all hours as defined by the status form(s) including adhering to the work schedule required by the position(s).
6. Secure approval for continuously working more than fifteen (15) hours per week, as specified in the labor overload approval process.
7. Secure approval for absences from work and arrange to make up hours in advance of the absence, if possible, and to immediately notify the supervisor of any unexpected absence.
8. Strive to meet duties, responsibilities, and standards required by the labor position as defined by the supervisor.
9. Complete Labor Experience Evaluation(s) for academic year.

THE COLLEGE AGREES TO:

1. Provide each registered student with opportunities for work-learning-service experiences fostering the goals of the Labor Program. Note: Summer practicum positions are dependent on department budgets and need.
2. Provide each registered student the opportunity to earn a work scholarship by working in the labor program. A portion of the scholarship, the Labor Grant, is applied directly to the full tuition scholarship. The remainder, a smaller portion, consists of direct payments based on hours worked.
3. Offer opportunities for advancement in skill and responsibility as defined by Work-Learning-Service levels.
4. Provide a Labor Transcript documenting the student’s participation, experience and performance in the program and to maintain labor records in accordance with general College policies and relevant legislation.
5. Conduct, using the “Student Labor Evaluation”, individual student work evaluations and to record final performance scores on the Labor Transcript.
6. Provide opportunity for students to evaluate their labor experience(s) by completing the “Labor Experience Evaluation”.
7. Conduct assessment at the supervisor, department, and program level to improve the educational and institutional value of the program.
8. Provide a labor grievance procedure whereby complaints can be resolved.

STUDENT STATEMENT

By signing, I agree to perform my labor assignments to the best of my ability. I understand and agree to the conditions set forth in this agreement. In addition, I am aware that failure to meet the requirements and conditions of this agreement can result in disciplinary action up to and including suspension. Also, I understand that this agreement is effective for the length of my enrollment and the signed document will be placed in my student file. A copy of the agreement can be requested/obtained through the Labor Program Office.

_______________________________________________Student Signature

______________________Date

________________________________________________Student Printed Name

Hour Contracts

During each academic term, students have the following hour expectation based on their contractual hours:

A Summer Assistance Grant is offered for students who meet the following requirements:

NOTE: The amount of Summer Assistance Grant may vary so check with Student Financial Aid for details.

1. The possible grant assistance is $250 for each four-week term or $500 for the eight week term.
2. Students must contract and work for 20 hours per week during the term to qualify for the grant.  Only students who are contracted for 20 hours will be reviewed to see if they have met the requirements for labor.
   1. Students who are under the 80 hours for the four-week term or 160 hours for the eight weeks will not receive the grant.
   2. Students must not exceed 22 hours per week (average) during the terms to receive the grant (e.g., 4 weeks no more than 88 hours or 8 weeks no more than 176 hours). 
3. Students must be registered and attending class for at least one credit during the four-week term or two credits during the eight-week term.
4. If a student completes two four-week sessions, they can receive a total of $500 which equates to $250 for each four-week term.
5. The maximum Assistance Grant that a student can receive is $500.
6. The grant will be applied to the student's account upon completion of the appropriate payrolls and determination made confirming the labor and academic requirements have been fulfilled.
7. By the end of each term, a student must pay down their account to the amount of the grant for which they are applying.
8. If a student doesn't fulfill the requirements to receive the grant, then their student account must be paid by August 10.
9. If a student doesn't receive the grant, they may apply for a loan through the Student Financial Aid Services Office (SFAS) which will determine if there is eligibility for a loan.  Applications for a loan must be filed with SFAS by August 1.

Labor Overloads

A labor overload is defined as more than 15 hours of labor per week during the regular academic year. Overloads may not be approved retroactively and are subject to periodic review. Approval may be revoked if primary labor hours, labor performance, or academic performance become less than satisfactory. Forms may be secured in the Student Service Center, or Labor Program Office, and should be submitted to Financial Aid for preliminary review. Labor overloads may be continued from term to term within an academic year, provided that the approval guidelines can still be met. The form will specify approval for the Academic Year, Fall or Spring Term.   Student records will be reviewed mid-year and students will be notified if the overload is discontinued. Students may work up to 20 hours during January’s short term without special approval.

Guidelines for Approval:

• Sophomore, junior, or senior classification
• Meeting Labor Program requirements in the primary position
• Not on any form of probation
• Enrolled in less than 5 course credits with less than 8 preparations (fall and spring terms only)
• Have a 2.50 GPA, both cumulative and for the previous full term; the required 2.50 cumulative GPA may be waived if a 3.00 GPA is earned during the previous full term.

Requests for over 20 hours are subject to the following additional guidelines:

• Junior or senior classification
• 3.00 GPA in the major, overall, and for the previous term
• Submission of a letter outlining the reason for requesting more than 20 hours
• Approval of the Dean of Labor and the Student Admissions and Academic Standing Committee.

These approval guidelines may be waived in cases where student parents must work 20 hours per week in order to receive state childcare benefits (e.g., KTAP), but the application must still be submitted and reviewed.

During periods of non-enrollment (vacation periods, summer practicum), hours must not exceed 40 per week.

First-Year Labor Assignments

First year students are defined as freshmen, International, Exchange, and transfer students.  In other words, any student who is attending Berea College for the first time.  

All first-year students are assigned WLS level 1, ten-hour positions, which they will hold until the end of the first academic year. At the conclusion of the first year, and each year thereafter, students are charged with securing their own position placements. Academic studies and work through the Labor Program are the primary concern of students attending Berea College and constitute a full-time load. Accordingly, work outside the Labor Program on a regular basis while enrolled as a student is not permitted without the approval of Dean of Labor or his designate in consultation with appropriate academic and financial-aid officials.

Exchange, Part-Time, and Non-Degree Students

Exchange students are required to participate fully in the Labor Program. Part-time students are required to participate, but a reduction in hours may be approved by the Dean of Labor depending on the circumstances. Non-degree students are permitted to participate in the College’s Labor Program provided funding is available and all degree-seeking students have been assigned.

Last Day to Release from a Labor Position

Signing a primary position status form obligates a student to remain in a labor position for the entire academic year, for the summer term, or, in the case of a December graduate, for the fall term. Should a student holding a Sophomore- Senior classification petition for an early release due to special circumstances, the labor supervisor of the primary position may consider and approve the request for a release on or before the last day to drop a class without a “W” appearing on the transcript. (This dates occurs one week after the first day of class in Fall and Spring terms and earlier in Summer One and Summer Two terms. Please refer to the academic calendar for the official dates.)

Primary supervisors are not obligated to approve a student’s request for release. Rare exceptions may be considered after this deadline and will require approval from the Labor Program Office. The current primary supervisor must complete a “Change of Labor Position Request Form” and submit it to the Labor Program Office, Fairchild Hall, Room 10, for review. Note: First Year Students are assigned to a labor position for an entire academic year and may not be released from any position without approval from the Labor Program Office.

Excused Hours

Students who are unable to report to a regularly scheduled work assignment due to an emergency are expected to notify their labor supervisor immediately. Special circumstances such as an excused absences due to a death in the family or prolonged illness, should be communicated to the Labor Program Office to consider if the student may be excused from a portion of the labor requirement. This should be done as quickly as possible to determine if  ircumstances would require documentation as would be the case with a prolonged illness or condition, etc.  Documentation should specify any restrictions as well when the student is cleared to return to work. A doctor/dental appointment is typically not excused unless it develops into a more serious condition requiring considerable absenteeism. In instances other than emergencies, the labor supervisor should be notified well in advance of the absence and time should be made up before the end of the term. (Also see Attendance Policy.)

Student Labor Evaluation (SLE): An Online, Web-Based Tool

The Student Labor Evaluation (SLE) process promotes student personal and professional development in the workplace by establishing performance standards consistent with the Berea College Workplace Expectations, assessing fulfillment of those standards, and determining ways in which the student and supervisor(s) / mentor(s) can collaborate to enhance student learning opportunities. The completion of this regular evaluation process creates a documented work performance history for each student as well as fulfills Berea College and federal compliance guidelines.

As part of the development plan, students should expect supervisors to conduct a mid-year evaluation at the middle of the labor position participation agreement period and a final evaluation at the conclusion of the labor position participation agreement (defined by the status form). In addition, supervisors are encouraged to have periodic conversations with students about position performance and to offer suggestions as well as provide opportunities for continued reflection and growth. Evaluations focus on seven (7) core areas of position performance including: attendance, accountability, teamwork, initiative, respect, learning, and position specific (based on individual departmental position descriptions).

Labor evaluation results are a central component of the labor transcript with performance ratings appearing for each position in a term or summer period. Because these performance ratings provide an advantage in future career seeking opportunities, students should strive to perform at the highest levels in every position held at Berea College.

Students who are not performing satisfactorily in a labor position and receive a score of 59 or below, are subject to being placed on Labor Probation for unsatisfactory performance within the department. (See Labor Probation and Suspension.)

Staff or Faculty Labor Supervisors assume the role of practical instructors within the program and evaluate, using the Student Labor Evaluation (SLE) described below, the student’s performance based on seven performance expectations (learning outcomes). Descriptors under the performance expectations describe the general learning outcomes that apply to the performance expectation. The descriptors are also linked to the seven Labor Learning Goals of the program and to the Workplace Expectations* of the college that apply. The seventh performance expectation “Position Specific” ties directly to the position description which defines the specific skill sets and requirements of the position which are evaluated under the position specific expectation. All student labor positions are defined by a position description and include specific learning opportunities and required skill sets that are embedded in the position. See the summary spreadsheet below to view how the various learning outcomes are integrated/linked to the seven performance expectations.

Labor Experience Evaluation (LEE): An Online, Web-Based Tool

The Labor Experience Evaluation (LEE) is an assessment tool designed to provide student feedback to those responsible for Labor Program effectiveness at the supervisor, department, and program levels. Student responses to the LEE are one of many sources of information used by Labor Program personnel in their efforts to improve the educational quality of the student work experience at Berea College.

The Labor Experience Evaluation allows students to reflect upon their overall labor experience while at Berea College. This survey allows students to evaluate back to us their labor experiences in five key areas:

1. Learning through work experiences
2. The relationships between work and academics
3. Four core general educational goals
4. Evaluation of the local work area
5. Evaluation of the Labor Program (Labor Program Office, and Student Payment Office)

Students are required towards the end of the academic year to evaluate and reflect on their labor experience through the Labor Experience Evaluation (LEE). Students are asked to complete the evaluation based on the current primary position but certainly other positions should be considered when thinking about the overall experience.   Labor departments should set aside time to allow the student to complete this evaluation during work time. The majority of the departments will utilize the weekly Tuesday 4-5 PM Labor Meeting time to allow their students to complete this web based on-line evaluation. The Labor Department Administrator and Labor Supervisor is given access to reports of the evaluations completed by the students working in the department after the conclusion of the labor assignment. Personal information (including name. class, gender…) that could identify a student is removed. The purpose of the reports is to provide a mechanism for  Department Administrators to be able to assess, with the department labor supervisors, the effectiveness of the learning occurring across the department.

Labor Program Evaluation (LPE): An Online, Web-Based Tool

Presently under development, this on-line tool will allow Labor Supervisors and Department Administrators to evaluate the Labor Program Administrative offices and services provided which includes student payroll.

Student Labor Transcript

The Student Labor Transcript serves as a record of the student’s participation in the Student Labor Program during his/her period of enrollment and will provide a detailed accounting of all positions held, each department and supervisor name, the WLS levels attained, the  assigned work hours per week, and the results of the departmental labor evaluation.  In addition, the transcript will contain a record of all labor distinctions received such as awards, special trainings, and certifications.   This information can be utilized by students in writing resumes and in future job searches by providing official documentation from Berea College that shows position performance and skill levels attained.

The transcript is official only when the embossed College seal and an authorized signature is affixed.  The signature is in blue ink.  Transcripts are printed on security paper and if photocopied, the legend COPY will appear in the background.  Berea College cannot guarantee the authenticity of any transcripts not issued directly to the receiving party.  In accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974, this transcript must not be released any third party without the written consent of the student.

A labor transcript can be requested through the student service center.  Transcripts are issued free of charge to current and former students.

Former students may have holds prohibiting access to their labor records if they left Berea College with a student account balance or if their loans are not in good standing or if they failed to meet their labor hour requirement at the end of their final term. Please contact the appropriate department(s) to resolve any such holds.

Labor Probation

The decision to place a student on Labor Probation is made by the Program and Operations Manager in consultation with the Dean of Labor and other professional staff of the Labor Program Office and is based on a review of all related circumstances. Normally probation occurs when a student within a primary position has:

1. Failed over a term to work a minimum of 10 hours a week.
2. Fallen significantly behind in hours during a term and warnings and attempts at counseling have not been successful.
3. Falsified time/labor records.  Additionally, in some cases the offense could be grounds for a judicial hearing.
4. Failed to meet the requirements of an accountability agreement.
5. Scored 59 or below on a Labor Evaluation for a primary position.
6. Not meeting the expectations or needs of the department during a term.  (Note: documentation from the supervisor would be required describing how the student is not meeting department expectations or needs.

Labor probation is centrally monitored and recorded, and has the potential to significantly impact a student’s participation in College activities.  Students on probation:

• Will be denied participation in international travel experiences, internships, independent studies, College-sponsored summer off-campus internships, and off-campus short term exchange; a student who is found to be significantly deficient in meeting the required labor obligation at mid-term may be denied during the application process;
• Will not be eligible for a labor or course overload or leave of absence;
• Will not be permitted to hold level five or six labor positions, or certain unclassified labor positions (e.g., CAB Chair, Pinnacle Editor); incumbents who are placed on probation while serving may be released;
• May be ineligible for consideration for some Labor Day awards, scholarship and service awards and membership in honorary societies (e.g., Mortar Board);
• May be ineligible to apply for a residence hall staff position
• May be denied permission for off-campus labor, local access to motor vehicles, and off-campus living.

Labor probation is typically for one regular term, but may be extended at the discretion of the Dean of Labor or Program and Operations Manager depending on the circumstances. 

Labor Probation—Immediate Suspension

The Dean of Labor, the Labor Program Council or the Program and Operations Manger in consultation with the Dean of Labor may elect to place a student on Labor Probation—Immediate Suspension. This “last chance” designation involves the development of an accountability agreement between the student and the Labor Program, violation of which results in a recommendation of immediate suspension by the Dean of Labor.

Suspension within a Term

Non-performance as a student worker can lead to suspension within a term. In cases where a student has been placed on labor probation and continues a pattern of non-performance the Dean of Labor, the Labor Program Council or the Program and Operations Manager in consultation with the Dean of Labor may elect to develop an accountability agreement and place the student on Labor Probation- Immediate Suspension. Accountability agreements outline clear expectations that- if not met- are grounds for immediate suspension within the term by the Dean of Labor.

Labor suspension is a serious matter. It appears on the student’s academic transcript for the duration of the suspension, and results in a designation of “not in good standing” which often prevents admission to another institution. At the end of the suspension period, the language is removed from the transcript and the student is once again in good standing. While the student may apply for readmission to Berea College, it is not guaranteed

Student Labor Grievance Procedure

A student with a labor-related problem should first discuss this situation with the supervisor. Most difficulties can be handled at this level. However, if it cannot be solved here, the next step is to discuss the concern with the head of the department. If the concern is not resolved, the next step is to contact the Labor Program Office’s Labor Program Coordinator for intervention and possible mediation.

If a solution cannot be reached in this manner, a formal grievance can be made by presenting the complaint in writing to the Dean of Labor. The Dean may request written responses from the other parties involved. Normally within one week from the time the written complaint is received the Dean will write a report of findings and conclusions and submit it to all concerned. If any of the parties to the grievance appeals the Dean’s decision, the Labor Program Council will convene a meeting, normally within one week of the appeal, or as soon as possible.

The Labor Program Council Chairperson shall appoint a Labor Grievance Board composed of four members of the Council, including the Chairperson, one student, one teaching faculty member, and one non-Labor Program Office member. The Labor Program Council Chairperson will serve as chairperson of the Grievance Board. The Dean of Labor will forward to the Board all written documents concerning the grievance and the written report. The Board will review the grievance and within one week give a written decision to all concerned. The decision of the Board will be final subject to legal and other institutional requirements as determined by the President.

-Adopted by the General Faculty, January 5, 1981

Grievances related to discrimination and sexual harassment will be addressed through other means. Please refer to the compliance section of this publication for further details.