Financial Aid Code of Conduct

Financial Aid Code of Conduct

Hood College is committed to the highest standards of ethical conduct, integrity, and transparency in the administration of student financial aid. Our Office of Financial Aid follows professional standards established by the National Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators (NASFAA) to ensure that all students and families are treated fairly and equitably throughout the financial aid process.

Commitment to Students

The Office of Financial Aid is dedicated to acting in the best interest of students and families by providing accurate, unbiased information and support. Our staff works to reduce barriers to higher education and to help students make informed decisions about financing their education.

Ethical Standards

Financial aid staff at Hood College adhere to the following principles:

• Integrity and Objectivity: All financial aid decisions and guidance are made without bias or personal interest and are based solely on student eligibility and institutional policies.
• Avoidance of Conflicts of Interest: Staff members do not accept gifts, compensation, or benefits that could influence—or appear to influence—their professional judgment. Any potential conflicts of interest must be disclosed and appropriately managed.
• Fair Treatment of Students: All students and families are treated equitably and with respect, regardless of background or financial circumstances.
• Accuracy and Transparency: Information provided regarding financial aid programs, eligibility, and borrowing options is accurate, clear, and free from commercial influence.

Loan and Lender Practices

• Hood College does not maintain a preferred lender list for private educational loans.
• Students and families have the right to choose any eligible lender for private education loans.
• Financial aid staff will not deny, delay, or unnecessarily obstruct a student’s choice of lender.
• Any information provided about private loan options is intended solely to support informed decision-making.

Consumer Information and Transparency

Hood College ensures that required financial aid information is readily accessible to students, including information on:

• Cost of attendance
• Types of available financial aid
• Eligibility requirements
• Renewal and satisfactory academic progress standards
• Loan terms and borrower responsibilities

Confidentiality

Financial aid staff are committed to protecting the privacy of student records in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Student information will not be disclosed without appropriate authorization, except as permitted by law.

Institutional Commitment

Hood College embraces NASFAA’s Statement of Ethical Principles, which emphasizes professional integrity, fairness, respect for students, and a commitment to expanding access to higher education.

Our goal is to ensure that every student receives ethical, transparent, and student-centered financial aid counseling as they pursue their academic goals at Hood College.