The Student Transparency, Understanding, and Disclosure Act, also known as the STUDENT Act, is a bill introduced in the 118th Congress by Representative John Smith. The purpose of this bill is to increase transparency and accountability in higher education by requiring colleges and universities to provide students with clear and easily accessible information about the cost and quality of their programs.
Under the STUDENT Act, institutions of higher education would be required to disclose information such as the total cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, and estimated living expenses. This information would need to be provided to students before they enroll in a program, allowing them to make informed decisions about their education.
Additionally, the bill would require colleges and universities to provide data on student outcomes, such as graduation rates, job placement rates, and average earnings of graduates. This information would help students understand the potential return on investment of their education and make more informed decisions about their future.
The STUDENT Act also includes provisions to protect students from predatory practices, such as requiring colleges to provide clear information about their accreditation status and financial aid options. It also establishes a Student Loan Ombudsman to assist students with loan repayment and help resolve disputes with lenders.
Overall, the STUDENT Act aims to empower students with the information they need to make informed decisions about their education and protect them from deceptive practices in the higher education industry.