Written arrangement is a formal agreement under which an eligible institution provides part of an educational program through another organization while remaining responsible for Title IV compliance.
How it works
The institutions or organizations execute a contract specifying which courses or competencies will be delivered by the partner, how much of the program that represents, and how the eligible institution will maintain academic control. The eligible institution awards the credential, disburses aid, and reports enrollment. Disclosures inform students of the partner’s role. Accreditors and the Department may review the arrangement during evaluations.
Example: an online university partners with a software firm to deliver two specialized courses within a bachelor’s program. The written arrangement keeps the outsourced portion well below 50 percent, the university’s faculty oversee assessments, and the university remains the Title IV-eligible provider. Students are informed of the partnership in the catalog.
How it differs
A consortium agreement is a written arrangement specifically between eligible institutions for concurrent enrollment. A transfer articulation agreement governs credit acceptance, not shared delivery of a current program. Outsourcing that exceeds regulatory limits can jeopardize Title IV eligibility. The written-arrangement rules protect program integrity when partners are involved.
Common errors
Allowing an ineligible provider to deliver more than the permitted share of a program. Failing to disclose the arrangement to students. Assuming a partner’s accreditation substitutes for the eligible institution’s responsibility.
References
- 1. 34 CFR 668.5 written arrangementsLimits on outsourcing instruction
- 2. Federal Student Aid written-arrangement guidanceEligibility conditions
Written arrangement is a formal agreement under which an eligible institution provides part of an educational program through another organization while remaining responsible for Title IV compliance.