The U.S. Department of Education (ED) issued Dear Colleague Letter (DCL) GEN-08-12, FP-08-10 which summarizes the provisions of the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA), which was enacted on August 14, 2008.

The HEOA reauthorized the Higher Education Act and included new reporting, disclosure, and other requirements for lenders and institutions. The Act authorized new loan forgiveness programs and included new provisions designed to assist veterans and their families obtain a postsecondary education.

The information from this DCL will help institutions understand the changes made by the HEOA. HESC suggests that you review the DCL along with a copy of the actual text of the HEOA. You can also review our announcement, Highlights of the Higher Education Opportunity Act of 2008, which reviewed the provisions of the HEOA.

HESC’s Office of Regulatory Compliance will keep you aware of any additional guidance the Department may offer on the HEOA by Dear Colleague Letter or by new regulatory changes.

Please direct questions regarding the Dear Colleague Letter to the ED contacts listed. For loan program related issues, contact the Office of Regulatory Compliance at 1-518-473-3986; toll free at 1-866-431-HESC (866-431-4372), press 6; or by e-mail at askpolicy@hesc.org

Date posted: 1/5/09