Principles and Policies

Office of Accessibility Services

At Simmons University, we are committed to the full participation of all students in our programs and activities. Simmons University is mandated by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 to provide equal access to facilities, educational and co-curricular programs, campus activities and employment opportunities to qualified individuals with disabilities.

The Office of Accessibility Services (OAS), located in the Center for Student Success, is a strategy-based service that supports students both on the ground and online. All students with a documented diagnosis that substantially limits a major life activity, such as learning, hearing, seeing, reading, walking, and speaking are eligible to register with the OAS and request academic, field and clinical accommodations.

The information located on the OAS website will help you to learn how to register with the OAS; and request accommodations; as well as access to other important information such as referral support offices the OAS partners with. Students must be fully registered and receive confirmation of eligibility before requests for academic, field or clinical accommodations can be made.

• Students who are exploring a diagnosis or who are considering use of services are also welcome to visit the OAS to review the offerings and services available as well as registration requirements.
• Students registered with OAS are expected to adhere to the same academic and behavioral standards as the rest of the University.
• A student's initial connection and ongoing interaction with OAS is self- propelled.
• Accommodations are applied on a prospective basis - students are not entitled to have accommodations applied on a retroactive basis.
• Documentation of a diagnosis/disability is not required when applying to the University and is submitted to OAS after the student accepts their place at the University.
• Accommodations are not intended to guarantee success; they are intended to provide equal access to the educational experience (classroom, field, clinical, field trips) to ensure that students may display their level of learning.
• Following a student's first meeting with an OAS staff member, the student may make their own appointments, which are recommended, but never required.
• Outreach by OAS staff to faculty and parents is generated ONLY by a student's written request.Diagnosis/disability-related information is confidential and is not shared without a student's permission.
• OAS is not a comprehensive special education program. Students' coursework is not shared with or linked to the OAS.
• OAS does not offer special education tutors or life coaches for social skills and acclimation.

Students are welcome to make an appointment to visit us in the Center for Student Success, on the Ground Floor of Lefavour Hall or arrange for a Zoom meeting if reaching us remotely. Please contact the Office of Accessibility Services at access@simmons.edu to schedule an appointment or to review any questions or concerns.

Educational Record Privacy Policy

Introduction

The University's practice in regard to student record-keeping complies with the provisions of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99) ("FERPA" or the “Act”) of 1974. FERPA is a Federal law that protects the privacy of student education records.

Definitions

• “Educational records” are those records, files, documents, and other materials which contain information directly related to a student and which are maintained by the University or by a person acting for the University. The following are examples of information which are not “educational records” protected by FERPA. Please note that this is not an exhaustive list:
• Records maintained by Public Safety that were created by Public Safety for the purpose of law enforcement.
• Information concerning students’ violation of law or policies concerning the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled student when the student is under 21, and when the information is provided to the students’ parent(s) or legal guardian(s).
• Information concerning deceased students.
• Information obtained through a school official’s personal knowledge or observation, unless that knowledge is obtained through his/her/their official role in making a determination maintained in education records about that student.
• Financial records of the students’ parents or any information contained therein.
• Confidential letters and statements of recommendation placed in the education records before January 1, 1975, if the letters or statements are not used for the purposes other than those for which they were specifically intended.
• If the student has signed a valid waiver in writing regarding their right of access, confidential recommendations respecting admission to any educational agency or institution, respecting an application for employment, and/or respecting the receipt of an honor or honorary recognition. The waiver shall apply to recommendations only if the student is, upon request, notified of the names of all persons making confidential recommendations and the recommendations are used for the purpose for which they were specifically intended. Such waivers shall not be used as a condition for admission to, receipt of financial aid from, or receipt of any other services or benefits from the University. This waiver may be revoked at any time for actions occurring after the revocation, and such revocation must be in writing.
• Records of instructional, supervisory, and administrative personnel and educational personnel ancillary thereto which are in the sole possession of the maker thereof and which are not accessible or revealed to any other person except a substitute.
• Records of University employees who are not in attendance at the University, where the records are maintained in the normal course of business and relate exclusively to the individual in their capacity as an employee are not available for use for any other purpose.
• Records of students which are made or maintained by a physician, psychiatrist, psychologist or other recognized professional or paraprofessional acting in his/her/their professional or paraprofessional capacity or assisting in that capacity when the records are made, maintained or used only in connection with the provision of treatment to the student and are not available to anyone other than persons providing such treatment, except that the records can be personally reviewed by a physician or other appropriate professional of the student’s choice.
• Records of individuals who are not and have not been in attendance at Simmons.
• Grades on peer-graded papers before they are collected and recorded by a Professor.

Right to Review

• Under the provisions of FERPA, students have the right to view the student’s own education record maintained by the University. If circumstances effectively prevent you from exercising your right to inspect and review your education record (e.g., due to distance) the University may make copies of the records requested or make other arrangements for you to inspect and review the requested records. The University may charge a fee for copies, unless the imposition of the fee effectively prevents you from exercising your rights to inspect and review your education records. To review your student records, you must make a written request to the appropriate office (e.g., the Registrar). The University will respond within a reasonable time, and no more than forty-five (45) days from the date of receipt of your request. The University will also respond to reasonable requests for explanations and interpretations of the records.
• Students have the right to request that the University correct records which students believe are inaccurate, misleading, or are otherwise in violation of the privacy rights of the students. The University will decide whether or not to amend the record as requested within a reasonable time after receiving the request. If the University decides not to amend the record, the student has a right to a formal hearing. The hearing will be held within a reasonable time period. After the hearing, if the University shall issue a decision within a reasonable time period as to whether to amend the record. If the University decides not to amend the record, the student has the right to place a statement with the record commenting on the contested information in the record and/or stating why he/she/they disagree with the decision.
• If information concerns more than one student, the student shall have the right to inspect or review only such part of such material or document as it relates to that student or to be informed of the specific information contained in that part of the material.

Disclosure of Records Without Consent

• Generally, the University must have written consent from the student in order to release information from a student’s education record. However, FERPA allows the University to disclose those records, without consent, to the following parties or under the following conditions:

• Other school officials, including Professors within the University, who have been determined by Simmons to have a legitimate educational interest, including the educational interest of the student for whom consent would otherwise be required;
• Officials of other schools in for which a student seeks or intends to enroll, as long as the disclosure is for the purposes related to the student's enrollment or transfer;
• Authorized representatives of the Comptroller General of the United States, the Secretary of Education or state educational authorities to the extent that such records are necessary in connection with the audit and evaluation of Federally-supported education programs, or in connection with the enforcement of the Federal legal requirements relating to such programs;
• In connection with a student’s application for, or receipt of, financial aid;
• Organizations conducting certain studies for or on behalf of educational agencies or institutions for the purpose of developing, validating, or administering predictive tests, administering student aid programs and improving instruction, if such studies are conducted in such a manner as will not permit the personal identification of students and their parents by persons other than representatives of such organization;
• Accrediting organizations in order to carry out their accrediting functions;
• To comply with a judicial order or lawfully issued subpoena;
• If the University initiates a legal action against the student, such education records as rare relevant for the University to proceed with the legal action. If the student initiates a legal action against the University, such education records as are relevant for the University to defend itself. 
• In connection with an emergency, to appropriate persons if the knowledge of such information is necessary to protect the health or safety of the student or other persons;
• State and local authorities within a juvenile justice system pursuant to Massachusetts law;
• Parents of dependent students;
• Pursuant to a Federal Grand Jury subpoena;
• To an alleged victim of a crime of violence or nonforcible sex offenses, the final result of disciplinary proceedings conducted by the University against the alleged perpetrator of the crime or offense;
• Certain information concerning the final results of any disciplinary proceeding conducted by Simmons against any student who is an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence, or a nonforcible sex offense, if the University determines as a result of that disciplinary proceeding that the student committed a violation of its rules or policies with respect to the crime or offense.
• To contractors, consultants, volunteers, or other parties to whom the University has outsourced institutional services or functions, provided that that party performs an institutional service or function for which the University would otherwise use employees; is under the direct control of the University with respect to the use and maintenance of education records; and is subject to certain requirements governing the use and redisclosure of personally identifiable information from education records.
• Information regarding registered sex offenders;
• All information which the University is required to disclose under the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act, 20 U.S.C. 1092(f) ("Clery Act").

• As otherwise required by applicable law.
• The University may also disclose, without consent, “directory” information such as the student’s name, address, telephone listing, date and place of birth, major field of study, participation in officially recognized activities and sports, weight and height of members of athletic teams, dates of attendance degrees and awards received, and the most recent previous educational agency or, institution attended by the student, student identification number (or other unique personal identification number used by the Student), but only if that identifier cannot be used to gain access to education records except in conjunction with one or more factors that authenticate the users’ identity. Students are permitted to request that the University does not disclose such “directory” information. If you would like to request that the University does not disclose your “directory” information, you must do so in writing, and you must direct your request to the Office of the Registrar. Note that your right to opt out of directory disclosures, if exercised, does not prevent the University and University officials from identifying you by name or disclosing your electronic identifier or institutional email address in class.

Disclosure of Records with Consent

The University may make disclosures of personally identifiable information from an education record if the student consents in writing. The written consent must specify the records that may be disclosed, state the purpose of the disclosure, and identify the party or class of parties to whom the disclosure may be made. You may request a copy of the records disclosed, provided that the University may charge a fee as discussed above.

Miscellaneous Provisions

FERPA does not prohibit the University from including in the student’s education record information concerning disciplinary actions taken against the student for conduct which posed a significant risk to the safety or well-being of the students or other members of the Community, or from disclosing such information to University officials or teachers and officials at other Universities who have legitimate business interests in the students’ behavior.

FERPA does not prohibit the University from disclosing, to a parent or legal guardian of a student, information regarding any violation of any Federal, state, or local law, or of any rule or policy of the University, governing the use or possession of alcohol or a controlled substance, regardless of whether that information is contained in the student’s education records, if, the student is under the age of 21 and the University determines that the student has committed a disciplinary violation with respect to such use or possession.

Complaints of Violations

A student who believes that his/her/their rights under FERPA have been violated may file a written complaint with the Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education, 400 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20202-4605. The Complaint must be timely (e.g., submitted to the office within 180 days of the date the complainant knew or reasonably should have known of the violation), and must state clearly and succinctly specific allegations of fact giving reasonable cause to believe that the school has violated FERPA.

Questions

Further questions about FERPA should be directed to the Offices of the Vice President of Student Engagement and Dean of Students, or the Office of the Registrar.

Contacts:

Registrar’s Office:
Shirley Alexander-Hunt, Registrar
Email: registrar@simmons.edu

Office of the VP of Student Engagement and Dean of Students
Rae-Anne Butera, Vice President of Student Engagement and Dean of Students
Email: rae-anne.butera@simmons.edu

Equal Access Policy

Simmons comprises an undergraduate women's college and several coed graduate schools. Since its founding, Simmons' mission has been to empower women and to challenge traditional gender norms; we have also endeavored to build a rich history of inclusion. In light of those commitments, Simmons considers as eligible to apply for admission to the undergraduate program individuals who were assigned female at birth, applicants who consistently live and identify as women, and/or applicants who do not fit into the gender binary but who feel they belong in our undergraduate community of women. Simmons does not discriminate unlawfully on the basis of race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or parental status, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, socio-economic status, ancestry, disability, veterans status, or genetic predisposition, with respect to programs and activities generally made available to students, including scholarship and loan programs, athletic programs, and other University-administered social, educational, and recreational programs, and student services. All students are given equal access to the University's programs and resources. Simmons University's graduate schools and programs are open to all admitted individuals.

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

The Simmons Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion was developed with input from the President's Advisory Council on Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity, supported by the University leadership, and unanimously affirmed by our Board of Trustees.

Simmons is committed to inclusive excellence in all aspects of an individual’s community experience. Our values, vision and mission mandate that we strive to create an environment that is free from bias, prejudice, discrimination, and hurtful/hateful acts that can prevent each member from thriving in the Simmons community.

Our Diversity & Inclusion Mission

We seek to extend to the entire Simmons University community opportunities for learning, growth, success, and meaningful participation and to build a welcoming, diverse, and inclusive culture for our community. To that end, we will engage in ongoing work to combat racism, bias, and all forms of individual and institutional oppression.

We believe diversity is necessary in all aspects of an educational and residential environment to ensure inclusive excellence. As an academic community, rich with varied life experiences, perspectives, and values, we are uniquely positioned to facilitate the ongoing engagement and intellectual dialogue that honors the inherent and unique characteristics of each member of our community. This includes, but is not limited to, interrogating socially constructed concepts and addressing issues of power, phobia, isms, or any other detractors to building and sustaining an equitable community.

Simmons will affirm diversity and inclusion by moving beyond tolerance and civility to a respect and appreciation that recognizes the social positioning of underrepresented and marginalized segments of the population.

Simmons values academic excellence, intellectual freedom, critical thinking, leadership, innovation, respect for the dignity of all individuals, and continuous improvement. We adhere to policies and practices that promote and support diversity and inclusion.

We prepare students to be well informed, open- minded, and sensitive to the values and diversity of others. We strive to foster an atmosphere where students can become actively engaged leaders in a changing, diverse society. We promote this goal through proactive and continual exchange of ideas among students, faculty, and the general university community.

To ensure that these goals are attained, Simmons University commits to the following principles.

We recognize, respect and honor the inherent individuality of all. We strive to ensure that all decisions concerning the educational progress of students are based on considerations appropriate to an academic institution and not on unlawfully based on race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or parental status, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, socio-economic status, ancestry, disability, veterans status, or genetic predisposition.

All students are given equal access to the University’s programs and resources. Simmons considers as eligible to apply for admission to the undergraduate program individuals who were assigned female at birth, applicants who consistently live and identify as women, and/or applicants who do not fit into the gender binary but who feel they belong in our undergraduate community of women. Simmons does not discriminate unlawfully on the basis of race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or parental status, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, socio-economic status, ancestry, disability, veterans status, or genetic predisposition with respect to programs and activities made generally available to students at the University, including scholarship and loan programs, athletic programs, and other University-administered student services, and social, educational and recreational programs.

We subscribe to the policies set forth in Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which mandates equal opportunity for qualified persons with disabilities in educational programs and activities.

We are committed to creating an atmosphere where diversity is supported with understanding, respect, and encouragement. The University does not tolerate unlawful or other harassment of employees or students. Any discrimination, sexual or other forms of harassment, bias, hurtful/hateful acts, microaggressions, or retaliation by any member of the Simmons Community, including any member of the faculty, staff, or student bodies against any other member of the community will be handled according to the applicable processes articulated in the Sexual Harassment Policy, Non-Retaliation Policy, Faculty Policy Manual, Employee Handbook, Student Handbook, Inclusion & Belonging Restoration Protocol and/or other relevant Simmons policies.

Human Subjects

The University has established policies on the use of human subjects in all Simmons-initiated research and training projects. The Institutional Review Board (IRB) is charged with reviewing, approving, and overseeing all research involving human subjects at Simmons University. Federal Regulations place responsibility on the University and the Principal Investigator to ensure that high ethical standards are maintained for all research involving human subjects.Students undertaking research projects that propose to use humans must do the following prior to beginning their projects: 1) prepare and submit an application to the IRB for review and prior approval and 2) complete the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) Program, a web-based human subjects research investigator education program. Students are expected to follow the IRB Process for Student Researchers (included with CITI training) and work closely with their faculty advisor to ensure the submission is consistent and includes all required elements, and that the submission and review timeline is aligned with the course completion expectations.  Incomplete or inaccurate submissions will delay the review process. A copy of the Simmons University human subjects research policy, IRB forms, and link to the CITI training program may be found on the Institutional Review Board (IRB) site. The contact for the IRB is the Center for Faculty Excellence (irbprotocols@simmons.edu). It is expected that all members of the Simmons community will fulfill their legal and ethical responsibilities to ensure that the rights and safety of human subjects are protected.

Notice of Non-Discrimination and Grievance Procedure

Chartered in 1899 and opened in 1902, Simmons is first and foremost an academic community whose goals include preparing students and other members of the Simmons community to be well informed, open-minded, and respectful of the values and diversity of others.
Simmons is, therefore, committed to the following principles:

• We support equal educational and employment opportunities for all persons, based on each individual's qualifications and fitness, and we seek to administer our university policies without regard to race, color, natural or protective hairstyle, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or parental status, pregnancy and pregnancy-related conditions, religion, age, national or ethnic origin, socio-economic status, ancestry, disability, veterans' status or genetic predisposition.
• We strive to administer our educational programs and activities, as well as the employment opportunities we provide, in accordance with all relevant state and federal requirements and implementing regulations. This includes, but is not limited to, Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and Titles I and III of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and the ADA Amendments Act of 2008, the Massachusetts Equal Rights Law (M.G.L. 93, Section 102 et seq.), Equal Pay Act of 1963, the Massachusetts Equal Pay Act, and Chapter 151B of the General Laws of Massachusetts, as amended.
• We are committed to making our programs and activities accessible to individuals with disabilities, including our online/digital services and offerings. We recognize that in the virtual/online learning environment, technology-dependent teaching and learning processes may create unique and unanticipated access barriers. We encourage individuals to contact us if an obstacle to access is found to exist. (See below for how to do so.)
• We seek to build and maintain a Simmons where the diversity of our community members is met with understanding, respect, and encouragement, and where unlawful discrimination, harassment and retaliation by any member of the administration, faculty, staff, or student body against any other individual will be investigated, evaluated and redressed. The University does not tolerate unlawful discrimination or harassment of its employees or students or retaliation against those who report incidents of unlawful behavior or those who cooperate in the investigation of such complaints.

Reporting Sex Discrimination:

Simmons does not discriminate on the basis of sex and prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates, as required by Title IX, including in graduate admission and employment.

Inquiries about Title IX may be referred to Simmons’ Title IX Coordinator, the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights, or both. Simmons’ Title IX Coordinator is Sara Simberg, Assistant General Counsel & Title IX Coordinator, sara.simberg@simmons.edu, 617-521-3289. 

In conjunction with this Notice of Non-Discrimination, which sets forth Simmons’ non-discrimination policy, Simmons has grievance procedures for matters involving or relating to sex discrimination that can be located in Simmons’ Sex Discrimination Policy for Students, Faculty, Staff, and Visitors (“Sex Discrimination Policy”), located on Simmons’ Title IX webpage. 

To report information about conduct that may constitute sex discrimination or make a complaint of sex discrimination under Title IX, please contact Simmons’ Title IX Coordinator, Sara Simberg, at sara.simberg@simmons.edu, 617-521-3289, or file a report online or via EthicsPoint.

Students Reporting Discrimination or Retaliation:

If you are a student and you believe you have been subjected to unlawful discrimination or retaliation, please contact the Dean of your School or the Director of your Program. You may also report unlawful discrimination or retaliation via EthicsPoint. Students who believe they have been unlawfully discriminated against on the basis of disability may file a grievance pursuant to the University's Grievance Procedure.

Employees Reporting Discrimination or Retaliation:

If you are an employee and you believe you have been subjected to unlawful discrimination or retaliation, please contact Associate Vice President, Human Resources, David Hollinden, at (617) 521-3812 or jdavid.hollinden@simmons.edu. You may also report unlawful discrimination or retaliation via EthicsPoint. Employees who believe they have been unlawfully discriminated against on the basis of disability may file a grievance pursuant to the University's Grievance Procedure.

Reporting a web/online accessibility barrier

Please use this form: https://www.simmons.edu/report-barrier. We are committed to making our programs and activities accessible to all individuals.

For Advice on Whom to Contact about a Concern or Incident:

If you are unsure of where to bring complaints or concerns about unlawful discrimination, harassment or retaliation, please contact the Office of the General Counsel at 617-521-2768 or gretchen.groggelralston@simmons.edu.

Simmons University Police and Public Safety

 

Simmons University Police and Public Safety works in partnership with the University community to provide a safe and secure environment in which students, faculty, and staff may learn, work, and live. We engage in joint problem-solving partnerships to identify issues of community concern and work collaboratively to continuously improve the safety and security of our campus. Your safety is of the foremost importance for everyone in the Police and Public Safety department and we have implementednumerous policies and procedures to enhance security. The SimmonsPolice and Public Safety department is set up with a combination of sworn police officers and non-sworn public safety officers. Our officers are assigned to patrol the campuses by foot and vehicle, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. All members of Police and Public Safety are trained in First Aid, CPR, and AED use and are designated as first responders to all medical emergencies on campus.

Academic Policies

Simmons University subscribes, without exception, to the Campus Security Act of 1990. It is University policy to provide members of the Simmons community with information, reports, and statistics as required by applicable laws, to maintain working relationships with other law enforcement agencies to ensure cooperation between different law enforcement jurisdictions, and to provide educational programs designed to increase crime and safety awareness among students, faculty, and staff. For information regarding the Campus Security Act, contact the Director of Public Safety at 617-521-1112.

In addition, data regarding retention at Simmons is available from the Registrar, in compliance with P.L. 94-482. For information regarding graduation statistics, contact the Office of the Registrar at registrar@simmons.edu.

Academic Standing

Graduate students are required to maintain a minimum semester GPA of 3.00 each semester in order to remain in good academic standing (2.67 for the MBA, Health Care MBA, and MPH programs). Graduate students must achieve a minimum cumulative, final GPA of 3.00 in order to graduate.

Academic Warning

When students complete a semester and earn a semester GPA of less than 3.00 (2.67 for MBA, HC MBA, and MPH) the student will be issued an academic warning. Warnings will be removed upon completion of a full semester’s coursework at 3.00 GPA or better (2.67 for the MBA, Health Care MBA, and MPH programs), or completion of the degree program with a minimum 3.00 cumulative GPA.

Certain programs have additional standards leading to warnings; information is available in the program handbook and from the program director.

Academic Exclusion

Two consecutive semesters below a cumulative 3.0 (2.67) GPA is grounds for exclusion from the graduate program and University. Any student receiving more than 3 credits at a Failing grade will be subject to dismissal.

Certain programs have additional requirements; information is available from the program handbook and the program director.

Repeating a Course

Courses may not be repeated more than once (i.e., courses may be taken twice and no more.  The grades of both courses are included in the student GPA.

Certain programs have additional requirements; information is available from the program handbook and the program director.

Maximum Time to Complete Graduate Degrees 

Candidates for a graduate degree must complete program requirements within six calendar years of matriculation.  Some Simmons programs have timelines that supersede this general policy; consult program handbooks or program directors for additional information.  

Class Attendance

Students are responsible for the entirety of the work in each of their registered courses. Instructors may consider individual class attendance when determining a student’s final grade for a course. In addition to lowering a grade, chronic or excessive, as defined by their program or the syllabus, absences may justify a failing grade for the entire course. Students should consult their program handbook and course instructors for specific consequences, policies, and procedures for absences and required makeup work. Scheduled classes have priority when in conflict with the out-of-class exam or other activity scheduled for another course.

Eligible students with a documented disability are granted reasonable accommodations in Simmons courses. In addition to the policy below, students should consult the Policy for Occasional Absences Accommodation and other policies of the Office of Accessibility.

All students with a health-related absence:

Students are responsible for informing their instructors in advance of absence or tardiness whenever possible. Students are expected to communicate proactively with their instructors in advance. In such cases, it is of the utmost importance that students contact their instructors as soon as possible to communicate their situation and make arrangements for work due or required makeup work, as appropriate and allowed by the instructor.

Athletes and students involved in other official Simmons games/meets or co-curricular activities should inform their instructors of potential conflicts between scheduled classes and scheduled programs or athletic contests at the start of each semester. The faculty member has sole discretion to allow an absence due to an event conflicting with class or lab time, including Simmons-sanctioned and outside events or commitments.

Program-Specific Policies Regarding Absences and Absence from Clinical/ Field Placement/Practicum

Program policies relating to absences will align with the policies herein, however, those policies may include additional information that is helpful and necessary for students to know. For instance, each program may have specific requirements relating to absences beyond those specified in this policy. Students are expected to be familiar with their program-specific requirements around absences, as well as the content of this policy. Students should consult program-specific handbooks for additional policies, including those on placement and practicum attendance. Students should consult their program handbook and clinical or field manual for specific consequences, policies, and procedures for absences and makeup work regarding absences from clinical or practicum placements.

Absence due to Military Obligations

Students who are required to participate in weekly or monthly meetings, weekend drills, annual trainings, military schooling, or any other training or official military event as members of the ROTC, National Guard, Reserves, or the Inactive Ready Reserve will be excused from class. Students are required to contact their faculty regarding making up work prior to missing class. Students should consult their program handbook for specific procedures and documentation requirements.

Students who are called to active duty should consult the Leave of Absence Policy.
 

Absence due to Religious Observance

Students who are unable, because of their religious beliefs, to attend classes or to participate in an examination or work requirement on a particular day shall be excused from the class, study, or work requirement and shall be provided with an opportunity to make up the examination, study, or work they may have missed consistent with Massachusetts General Law Chapter 151C, Section 2B. That law states:

Any student in an educational or vocational training institution, other than a religious or a denominational educational or vocational training institution, who is unable, because of his/her religious beliefs, to attend classes or to participate in any examination, study, or work requirement on a particular day shall be excused from any such examination or study or work requirement and shall be provided with an opportunity to make up such examination, study, or work missed because of such absence on any particular day, provided, however, that such makeup examination or work shall not create an unreasonable burden upon such school. The institution shall charge no fees for making such an opportunity available to the said student. No adverse or prejudicial effect shall result to any student because of his/her availing himself of the provisions of the sections.

Questions about absences for religious observance should be directed to the professor.
 

Absence due to Jury Duty

During the course of the academic year, students may receive notification that they have been summoned for jury duty. Students who attend college in Massachusetts are required by law to fulfill their civic duty if summoned, even though their permanent or "official" residence may be in another state. If the date for which students have been summoned is inconvenient, they may request a postponement for up to one year.

Students who are required to miss classes because of jury duty may notify the Office of Student Life by calling 617-521-2124. The Office of Student Life staff will inform the appropriate faculty members, who will work with the students to make up any missed assignments or exams. Upon completion of jury duty, students are expected to bring a copy of the documentation of their service to the Office of Student Life.
 

 

Course Registration

Registration for graduate courses takes place on Workday, workday.simmons.edu. Every student is assigned an individual registration start time for each semester based on program location and number of credits earned. Registration for each semester begins according to the Simmons University Academic Calendar and continues through the end of the first week of classes.

Graduate students should consult with their programs for advising, consultation, and guidelines, as well as with their financial aid counselor, to ensure there are no holds on their accounts prior to registration. 

Auditing Courses

Students who wish to attend a class without working for or expecting to receive formal credit may register to audit the class in those programs where an audit is permitted (see program Student Handbook). Permission of the instructor is required to audit the class and students cannot register for an audit until the first day of the course.

Students may not attend any course without registering for either credit or audit. Students may not change an audit class to credit after the priority registration period.

Policy on Adding Courses

Students may add a course prior to the third course meeting as long as they have not exceeded the maximum credits allowed for their program, have met the prerequisites for the course, capacity is available, and consent has been granted where required. (Consult program Student Handbooks for maximum credit loads. See below for procedures. Consult the Registration page for the specific add/drop calendar for your program, including for courses running outside of standard semesters.)

Students are responsible for informing the instructor and for all coursework in an added class.

Students must meet program policies and requirements and if necessary, have the Add/Drop form signed by their program’s designated official(s). See Program Handbook and the Registration Guidelines (Registration) for detailed instructions. Students should consult an advisor, Program Director, or Department Chair whenever adding or withdrawing a course.

Adding Courses

During the Registration Priority Period (Add/Drop Period), students can add a course in Workday. Once course sections are listed on Workday; students can search for courses and add them to their Preferred Sections List even before their scheduled Registration Start Time. After your Registration Start Time has passed, you can register for the courses from your Preferred Sections List.

After the Registration Priority Period:

• Online Nursing, Social Work, MBA/HCMBA, and Public Health students: Before 9:00 a.m. on the Monday before the third course meeting, email the Registrar and your Academic Advisor. Specific dates for each semester are posted on the Registration web page
• All other Students: Either before the published deadline (see Registration web page), submit a completed Add/Drop Form (including Instructor or other signature required by our program) in person at the Registrar’s Office OR Email the Registrar and have your Instructor (or other required signature) email Consent@simmons.edu

If your program requires Instructor Consent: submit a completed Add/Drop Form (including Instructor or other signature required by our program) at the Registrar’s Office OR Email the Registrar and have your Instructor (or other required signature) email Consent@simmons.edu

Adding Courses and Satisfactory Academic Progress

Students who change their schedule by adding a course (or withdrawing from a course) should consult with their Academic Advisor or Program Director to ensure that they will continue to meet degree and graduation requirements. (See below for additional information on Satisfactory Academic Progress.)

Adding Courses and Tuition and Financial Aid Awards

Students should also consult with Student Financial Services to be fully apprised of the impact of course changes on their tuition bill and on any financial aid. (See below.)

Policy on Withdrawal from a Course

Once enrolled in a course, a student is considered to be in that course until they change their registration through the Office of the Registrar.

Each semester for each program, the Office of the Registrar posts the:

• Deadline to withdraw from a course with no notation on the student transcript.

• Deadline to withdraw from a course with a "W" (Withdrawn) noted on the student transcript. After that date, the student transcript will note the earned grade.

• A student who fails to attend a course or ceases attending a course and has not formally withdrawn by the deadline will receive a grade of "F" in the course and on the student transcript.

Students should consult an advisor, Program Director, or Department Chair whenever withdrawing from a course. Doctor of Physical Therapy students should consult the DPT Student Handbook for the withdrawal policy for their cohort-based program. All students enrolled in field placements or practica (including Physical Therapy, Nursing, Social Work, Education, and Nutrition) should consult their Student Handbook for specific withdrawal policies and procedures. Financial Aid and Immigration Status policies also apply to withdrawal from for-credit field experiences.

Please refer to the University Registrar’s web page for detailed course withdrawal procedures and schedules and for the specific deadlines for each program each semester.

Registration

Course Withdrawal and Satisfactory Academic Progress

A course withdrawal does not constitute successful completion of a course and may affect a student’s academic standing. Students who fail to complete at least 50% of attempted coursework successfully have not made satisfactory academic progress. See Satisfactory Academic Progress under Financial Information, below.

Course Withdrawal and Tuition

Registration reserves a student’s place in a course. This registration is binding, both financially and academically. Should a student decide not to attend class, written notification to the Registrar’s Office is required. Courses dropped after the beginning of the semester are subject to partial charges. Please visit the Student Financial Services website (and below) to review the tuition refund schedule for the current academic year.

Course Withdrawal and Financial Aid Awards

A course withdrawal may affect a student's financial aid (loans) and merit funds (scholarships and assistantships). U.S. students must be enrolled at least half time to receive federal loans and usually full time for scholarships and assistantships. Be sure to consult Student Financial Services, Billing and Payment (Student Accounts), to understand the financial implications of course withdrawal.

Grade Appeal

Grade appeals can occur for the following three reasons: computational error; arbitrariness or capriciousness; unlawful discrimination. If a student believes that they have the basis to appeal a final grade, they should follow the grade appeal procedures and deadlines outlined below.

A grade appeal must be initiated within ten instructional days of the semester following the term of the grade under appeal. A student cannot appeal a grade after they have graduated.

A. Explanation of Grounds for Appeal

1. Computational error.

The faculty member is alleged to have made a mistake in the mathematical computation of the course grade. If the faculty member discovers a computational error in calculating a student's grade, they should submit a "Change of Grade" form to the Dean's Office. The faculty member should notify the student of the error and resulting change; the student has the right to question or appeal this grade following the procedures outlined below. If a student believes that a mistake has been made in the computation of their grade, they should first speak with the faculty member. If the faculty member agrees, the faculty member should complete a "Change of Grade" form, have it signed by the Academic unit head and by the Dean's Office. If the faculty member does not agree, the student may then follow the procedures and deadlines outlined below.

Deadlines: "Change of Grade" forms must be received by the Dean's Office no later than one semester following the semester in which the computational error was made.

2. Arbitrariness or capriciousness.

The student alleges that the grade was based on something other than performance in a course (i.e. non-academic criteria); or the grade reflects standards different from those applied to other students in the course; or the grade departs from the standards of evaluation set forth in the syllabi or other written document in a substantial, unreasonable, and unannounced way. In this case, the student should follow the procedures and deadlines outlined below.

3. Discrimination.

The student alleges that the grade reflects a violation of the University's non-discrimination policy as stated in the University catalogs and student handbooks. In this case, the student should follow the "grievance procedures" for bringing a claim of unlawful discrimination as outlined in the University catalogs and student handbooks.

B. Grade Appeal Procedures and Deadlines

1. First Step: Informal Resolution with Course Faculty Member.

If the student believes they have received an unfair course grade, they shall attempt to resolve the matter informally with the faculty member who assigned the grade. The faculty member shall meet with the student to consider their reasons for believing the final grade to be unfair. If the faculty member does not believe there is merit for a grade change, they notify the student. The student may then proceed to the second step below. If the faculty member believes there is reason to change the grade, they complete the "Change of Grade" form, including a clear explanation of the reason for the change that is consistent with the terms of this grade appeal policy. The faculty member submits the "Change of Grade" form to the Academic unit head for approval; the academic unit head submits it to the Dean's Office for approval. After Dean's Office approval is received, the faculty member notifies the student of the change.

Deadlines: The student must make their appeal to the faculty member no later than the tenth day of instruction of the semester following the assignment of the grade under appeal. If the grade is not to be changed, the faculty member will notify the student of their decision within five days of instruction of their meeting. If the grade is to be changed, the faculty member submits the "Change of Grade" form to the Academic unit head within five days of instruction. The Dean's Office will notify the faculty member when the change has been processed so that the faculty member can notify the student.

2. Second Step: Informal Resolution with Academic Unit Head.

If, after the faculty member's notification of their consideration of the initial grade appeal, the student continues to believe that the grade is unfairly assigned, the student shall meet with the Director of the Program in which the course was taken and explain the grounds for the student's grade appeal. The student will provide all supporting course materials. The Academic unit head shall meet with the faculty member. If the faculty member, after discussion with the Academic unit head, agrees that the grade should be changed, they completes a "Change of Grade" form, including a clear explanation of the reason for the change that is consistent with the terms of this grade appeal policy. The faculty member submits the "Change of Grade" form to the Academic unit head for approval; the Academic unit head submits it to the Dean's Office for approval. If the faculty member does not agree, the student may proceed to the third step below.

Deadlines: The student must submit an appeal with the Department Program Director within ten instructional days after notice of the decision in "first step" above. The Academic unit head informs the student of their decision within five instructional days of their meeting.

3. Third Step: Dean's Review.

If, after seeking informal resolution with the Academic unit head, the student continues to believe that the assigned grade is unfair and wishes to pursue the appeal, the student may submit a written appeal to the Dean's Office. The written statement includes the student's reasons for appealing the grade and any supporting materials. The Dean or their designate shall meet, separately and/or together, with the student and the faculty member and may ask for a written statement from the faculty member. Additionally, the Dean or their designate shall meet with the Academic unit head. If the Dean's Review determines that there is no merit to the grade appeal, the Dean informs the student that the final grade stands. The grade appeal process ends here.

Deadlines: The student must submit a written statement grade appeal to the Dean within ten instructional days of the notice of the decision in the "second step" above. The Dean informs the student of their decision within ten instructional days of their final meeting.

4. Fourth Step: Faculty Grade Appeal Committee.

If the Dean's Review determines that there is merit to the grade appeal, the Dean will refer the appeal to a Faculty Grade Appeal Committee. (The Committee may be a standing or an ad hoc committee.)

Deadlines: The Faculty Grade Appeal Committee has twenty instructional days to convene and deliberate. The Committee notifies the student, faculty member, and Dean's Office of its decision within five instructional days of its decision.

Please note that although individual assignments become part of a course grade appeal, only the final grade in a course is open to appeal under this process. As a result of the grade appeal process, the final grade may be raised, lowered, or stay the same. The grade appeal process will not attempt to grade or re-grade individual assignments or aspects of course work other than the final grade. Similarly, no new or revised course work can be requested by the student or accepted by the faculty member as part of a grade appeal process. Records of all graded material, including examinations, papers, homework, etc. shall be maintained by individual faculty members until the end of the grade appeal procedure period. Students are strongly encouraged to maintain copies of all work submitted to the faculty member as well as graded work returned to the student by the faculty member.

Marks and Evaluations

The University uses a system of letter grades and numerical points to evaluate student performance in courses. The following grades, with corresponding grade points, are used to evaluate academic achievement.

 

Letter Grade	Grade Point
A	4.00
A-	3.67
B+	3.33
B	3.00
B-	2.67
C+	2.33
C	2.00
C-	1.67
D+	1.33
D	1.00
D-	0.67
F	0.00

 

AU: Indicates that the student is or has audited the course. No credit is awarded for an audit.
F – FAIL: Indicates performance in a course for which specific grades are not given. No credits are granted
MP – MARGINAL PASS: used in the School of Social Work and indicates performance in a course for which specific grades are not given.
P – PASS: Indicates performance in a course for which specific grades are not given.
W – WITHDRAWAL: indicates an approved withdrawal.  

Incomplete Evaluations

Required coursework must ordinarily be completed by the last day of final examinations. In extenuating circumstances, students may request an “incomplete.” It is the student’s responsibility to monitor their progress and complete all work so that the instructor can submit a final grade by an agreed deadline. Failure to submit work by the approved incomplete deadline may result in a grade of F.

Certain programs have specific standards and timelines for incompletes. Please consult the program handbook or program director.  

Leaves of Absence

Voluntary Leave of Absence

Students wishing to leave the University for a temporary period with the intention of returning to complete their degree may apply for a leave of absence (LOA). Students considering a leave of absence should consult their advisor, program director, or the Dean of Student Affairs and Student Financial Services. International students should consult the Center for Global Education for the implications of withdrawal on their visa status.

If the student chooses to take a voluntary leave of absence to receive intensive clinical health care treatment, the staff in the Office of Student Affairs will assist with processing this request. In some instances, the student may be asked to complete the Process for Returning from an Involuntary Leave of Absence as a requirement for returning to the University. (See below.)

In order to take an official leave of absence, students must complete a Leave of Absence form available online. The student requesting an LOA must state the reason for the leave and the semester in which they intend to return. Students who take a leave of absence during the semester are assigned grades based on the Course Withdrawal policy.

Leaves will not ordinarily be granted for periods longer than one academic year. A request to extend a leave (for a maximum of one year) is approved only in unusual circumstances. Extension requests must be made before the original leave of absence expires. Leaves of absence for graduate students may not exceed a cumulative total of two years. Students who do not return at the end of an authorized Leave of Absence will be withdrawn from their academic program and must submit a subsequent readmission to the program.

Students on a leave of absence are considered active students and are able to register for classes in an upcoming term while on leave. Students are expected to register for classes upon returning from a leave of absence.

Involuntary Leave of Absence

Simmons University is committed to the safety and well-being of its community members and the integrity of the living and learning environment. Our goals, therefore, are to maintain the health and safety of each individual in our community and to enable all enrolled students to participate fully in the life of the University. In instances in which a student's mental, emotional, or medical health pose a threat to themselves or others, becomes a barrier to appropriate or prescribed levels of self-care, or causes significant disruption to the activities of the University community, such students may be required to take an involuntary leave of absence from the University.

In instances when a student's mental, physical, or emotional health may pose a direct, imminent threat to the safety and well-being of the Simmons community, or the student has been admitted to a health care setting to undergo intensive medical or psychological treatment (hospitalization, intensive outpatient or inpatient program), the Dean of Students or designee, as an interim measure, can place the student on an involuntary leave of absence from the University. When applicable the student will be informed in writing of the actions that lead to her/him being placed on leave and direct the student to the process for return. The student's parent/guardian/emergency contact person may be notified that the student is in a potentially dangerous situation.

Any student placed on an involuntary leave of absence will not be allowed to remain on campus. This includes living in residence, attending classes, and participating in Simmons sponsored events.

In circumstances when the student has not met direct threat/inpatient criteria, the Dean for Student Affairs or designee may, based on observable/recorded behavior, still require a student to undergo an individualized psychological or medical assessment to make an informed decision regarding the student's ability to meet the academic, social and emotional requirements of being a Simmons student. This evaluation can be conducted by a member of the University's clinical staff or by a student's external healthcare provider who is treating the student. The student will be required to sign a release that permits the University's designated clinical personnel to speak with her/his external evaluating healthcare provider and to allow for the release of any relevant medical reports as part of the assessment. If the student chooses not to engage in the process listed above, then she/he will be required to take an involuntary leave of absence and if applicable, immediate removal from the residence halls.

If following the evaluation, a leave is deemed unnecessary, the Dean for Student Affairs or designee may impose other conditions and/or requirements which the student would be required to comply with as a condition of continued enrollment at the University.

In any instance in which a leave is required, the Dean for Student Affairs or designee will provide written notice to the student, including the specific requirements that must be met as a condition of eligibility for re-enrollment, the timeline for initiating and completing the return process, as well as the procedure for appealing the decision. In most instances, the student's parent(s) or guardian(s) will be included in this notice. Students are strongly encouraged to discuss the need for a voluntary or involuntary leave with their parent(s) or guardian(s) prior to and during the leave process.

The duration of the leave is typically no fewer than six whole months, although the specific length will be based on the student's individualized assessment and determined by the Dean or designee on a case-by-case basis. When a student takes leave before the end of a semester, whether voluntary or involuntary, Simmons' usual tuition and residence hall refund schedule applies. 

Process for Returning to Simmons after an Involuntary Leave

Simmons University students placed on an Involuntary Leave of Absence will be required to undergo an individualized assessment to be cleared to return to Simmons before returning to the University. They must also sign an authorization form that enables the hospital, treatment facility, and/or all pertinent external healthcare providers to release information necessary for the review process. The review process will involve an interview with the appropriately licensed Simmons clinical staff member as well as the Dean of Student Affairs or designee. Following the interview with an individual of the clinical staff, a recommendation that is based on the student’s report, his/ her treatment history, information gathered from the external treatment facility, and/or a student’s health care provider will be shared with the Dean for Student Affairs or designee regarding the student's readiness to return. Then, on a case by case basis, the Dean of Student Affairs or designee will make a determination if the students are permitted to return to the Simmons community. If it is determined that the student can return, the student will meet with the Associate Dean for Student Affairs or designee to establish a plan to return to the University and identify community resources. As a condition of continued enrollment and, if applicable, as a condition of re-admittance to the residence halls, the following criteria must be met:

1. The consulting health care provider must find that the student has maintained a significant level of physical, mental, or emotional stability along with the skill set necessary to successfully engage in the student’s academic program as well as the activities associated with being a Simmons student.

2. After returning to the University, The student, the consulting Simmons clinical staff member, and all relevant external health care providers must establish and agree upon a plan for continued managed care.

3. The student must commit to following the recommended and established treatment plan.

If, after reviewing all pertinent information, the Dean of Student Affairs or designee denies a student’s request to return from an involuntary leave of absence or the student disagrees with the conditions established as part of the return process, the student can appeal the decision in writing to the Vice President of Student Affairs.

Transfer and Waiver of Credit

Transferring credits earned prior to entering the program

Students may petition their program to transfer credits earned at another institution in accordance with their program handbook and the requirements below. Students must provide required documents (transcript, syllabi, course descriptions, or other documents), obtain the required signatures, and follow the process outlined in each program’s Student Handbook or in consultation with the Program Director.

• Courses must be graduate level and from an accredited, degree granting institution.
• Simmons credit may be granted for no more than the face-value credit granted by the host institution.
• The course grade must a 'B' (3.0) or higher.
• The course must have been completed within 5 years of matriculation. (The Nutrition Department may grant credit for courses completed within 10 years; see the Student Handbook).
• The request to transfer must be made during or prior to the end of the first semester in the program. Check program handbook for any exceptions.
• Only credits transfer; grades do not. Transferred courses do not affect student GPA.

Transferring credits earned during the program

Some programs allow students to petition in advance to take an elective course at another institution. Students should consult their program Student Handbook or Program Director for timeline, requirements, and process.

Waiver of course requirements and assessment of prior learning

Some Simmons programs allow students to petition to waive course requirements for general knowledge and experience or for coursework completed at another institution. A waiver, if awarded, waives a requirement and does not waive any credits. Students must take a course(s) in place of the waived course(s). Proof of knowledge is required for a waiver. Students should consult their program Student Handbook or Program Director for information on waivers and, if applicable, timelines, requirements, and processes.

Withdrawal from University

Students who wish to withdraw from the university must complete the Withdrawal Form, available online, from the Program Director or the Office of the Registrar.  Students should consult with their program advisors and Student Financial Services for information on the implications of withdrawal for tuition and student loans. A withdrawal request is effective when received in the Registrar’s office. Students who withdraw during the semester are assigned grades based on the Course Withdrawal policy. Withdrawal from the university will impact an international student’s immigration status; international students should consult with the Center for Global Education before withdrawal.

All University expenses incurred by a student before their withdrawal must be paid in full before the release of their official records, including transcripts.

Administrative Withdrawal

If a student withdraws from all of their courses, fails to return from a leave of absence after the date approved by the registrar, or fails to register for any courses by the end of the add/drop period, they are considered to have withdrawn from the University. No student will be permitted to register after the add/drop period for their program has ended.

Financial Information: Tuition and Fees, Student Loans, Satisfactory Academic Progress

 

 

Payment Methods and Policies

 

Billing statements are emailed monthly if there has been any account activity or if there is a balance due.

Statements are posted online on a monthly basis via the online Student Account Center which can be accessed by logging into Workday.

Students are required to maintain an accurate address with the College. If you will be moving please update your address via Workday or contact the Registrar.

  Failure to receive a student account statement is not an adequate reason for nonpayment.

 

Make all checks and money orders payable to Simmons University. You must include the student's account number on the check. Post-dated checks will not be accepted. Send payments  to the following address:

 

Simmons University

P.O. Box 414104

Boston, MA 02241-4104

Payments without the billing stub must be brought or mailed directly to the Cashier Window at the University:

 

Simmons University, Cashier Window
300 The Fenway
Boston, MA 02115-5898

A fee of $20 will be charged for any dishonored check. Student Financial Services will wait 5 business days for an electronic check to clear and 10 business for a paper check to clear before lifting any financial obligation holds.

 

Simmons University, in partnership with TouchNet, offers a variety of payment plans to assist with managing the cost of higher education. Many students and families take advantage of a payment plan to cover their balance in full or to supplement any remaining balance not covered by financial aid or loans. The payment plan is an interest-free alternative to a lump sum payment on the due date.Such arrangements must be made well in advance of the bill due date to avoid late fees.

For details on payment plans, consult the University web site: https://www.simmons.edu/admission-financial-aid/financial-aid-and-affordability/billing-and-payment/payment-plans

 

Online Payment - E-Check and Credit Card

Simmons University provides the convenience of making a quick and easy online payment towards your student account. There is no fee for the electronic check payment option. Please note that a convenience fee of 2.95% will be charged by the provider for the credit card payment option. Simmons University does not charge nor collect the convenience fee. Credit cards currently accepted are: Visa, Mastercard, Discover and American Express. Debit and credit card payments are not accepted in person at the Cashier's Window. Visit our billing and payments page for instructions on accessing the online student account center to make a payment online. 

 

International Payments

Simmons University has partnered with TransferMate to provide a streamlined and secure payment method through your student account that also reduces bank fees and improves your payment experience. With TransferMate, students can make payments in their local currency from nearly any country.
To make a payment, log in to Workday and go to Finances > My Finances > Welcome to the Online Student Account Center > Make Payment. Select TransferMate INTL as your payment method and follow the instructions to complete the payment.

Authorized users

Students can authorize parents or other third parties to access their student account and make payments online. After access has been granted, the authorized user will automatically receive an email from sfs@simmons.edu with instructions on how to log in and make payments. Authorized users will only have access to the financial information the student has made available to them through the Online Student Account Center. They will not have access to anything on Workday, such as grades and registration information. Visit our billing and payments page for instructions on accessing the online student account center to authorize a third party.

 

For wire transfer instructions, please contact the Office of Student Financial Services at (617) 521-2001 or sfs@simmons.edu.

Simmons University welcomes all college and university savings plans. Student Financial Services recommends that you contact the individual plan provider for specific information regarding how to initiate payment. Most 529 plans send payment directly to the University based on an invoice supplied by the 529 holder. Some plans request that the University provide the invoice on behalf of the student. Please let Student Financial Services know if your plan provider requires documentation from University directly.

 

On-Campus Graduate Programs:

 

Online Graduate Programs (Nursing@Simmons, SW@Simmons, MPH@Simmons & BehaviorAnalysis@Simmons)

• All Terms: Tuition payment is due 7 days prior to the start of each term

 

Late fees & penalties

Payments received at the University after the due date on the billing statement are subject to late payment fees. A $100 late fee will be assessed if the balance is not paid in full by the tuition payment deadline. Another $100 late fee will be assessed if the balance has not been paid in full by the first day of classes for that semester.

Student accounts must be paid in full before a student may attend class. Students who do not settle their accounts prior to the first day of classes may have their schedules canceled and will have to select courses on a space- available basis.

Any account that is severely delinquent may be referred to a collection agency or lawyer for collection. Any expenses incurred by the University in doing so will be added to the due balance.

Simmons University reserves the right to suspend any or all of its privileges and services to students who have not met their financial obligations to the University. Such services include the release of academic transcripts, diplomas, references, and placement materials, as well as access to various campus offices and facilities. Please note that Simmons has no deferred-payment plans. All University charges are payable by the applicable due dates or the late payment fees will be applied.

 

Enrollment Requirements related to Loans, Financial Aid, and Scholarships/Fellowships

For federal loans, students must meet particular enrollment requirements. All students need to be enrolled at half- time status or more to receive financial aid. For graduate students, half-time status is registered in at least 5 credits.

For merit scholarships awarded at time of acceptance, the credit requirements vary and are dependent on your level of award. Please refer to your scholarship offer letter to ensure you are consistently registered for the minimum number of credits required to maintain the scholarship.

 

Graduate Tuition and Fees

Fall 2024 to Summer 2025

Please also refer to the Simmons University website for current tuition and fees.

 

Program	Tuition (per credit)	Activity Fee (per semester)
Behavior Analysis (Masters)	$1,125	$125
Behavior Analysis (Doctoral)	$1,180	$125
Children’s Literature	$1,165	$70
MS Nutrition + Dietetic Internship	$40,300 (MS Nutrition: 31 Credit Hours); $11,700 (Internship, 9 credit hours; year 2)	$125 - Student fee $90 – CORI checks Health insurance (Cost TBD) if needed
Dietetic Internship (non-degree)	$15,600 ($1,300 per credit, including 3 graduate credits)	$125 - Student fee $90 – CORI checks Health insurance (Cost TBD) if needed
Education	$990	$70
Gender/Cultural Studies	$1,165	$70
Health Professions Education	$1,300	$125
History	$1,165	$70
Library and Information Science	$1,385	$70
Nursing (RN-MSN, MSN, DE post-licensure)	$1,235	$125
Nursing ( DE pre-licensure)	$1,559	$125
Nursing (DE pre-licensure, DNP)	$1,476	$125
Nutrition	$1,300	$125
Physical Therapy	$1,420	$125 $815 – Human Anatomy Lab one- time fee
Public Policy	$1,165	$70
Social Work (Master's)	$1,165	$70 $75 – per field placement
Social Work (Phd)	$1,218	$70 $75 – per field placement
Dual Degree: Gender/Cultural Studies + Public Policy	$1,165	$70
Dual Degree: Library and Information Science + Children’s Literature	$1,218	$70
Dual Degree: Library and Information Science + History	$1,300	$70
Online: Behavior Analysis @ Simmons	$1,125	$125
Online: MPH @ Simmons	$1,000	$70
Online: Nursing @ Simmons (RN-MSN, MSN)	$1,235	$175
Online: Nursing@Simmons (DNP)	$1,476	$175
Online: SocialWork @ Simmons	$1,165 (masters) $1,218 (doctoral)	$70 $75 – per field placement

 

Student Lending Options

Example

NOTE: Dollar amounts are for example only and are not true current costs. Rachel has been awarded the following package for Fall 2024:

• Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loan - $10,250

Rachel withdraws from all of her classes on October 5, 2024. The total amount of Title IV Aid that is subject to the Return of Title IV Calculation is $10,250. The percentage of Title IV aid Rachel has earned is 31.1%. The total amount of Title IV aid that was earned by the student is $3,177.5.

The total amount of Title IV aid to be returned is $10,250 - $3,177.5 = $7,072.5

Total charges for Fall 2024 semester is $17,088  tuition and fees. The amount of Title IV aid unearned is 68.9%. The charges times the amount of unearned aid is $17,088 X 68.9% = $11,773

The amount of Title IV aid to be returned by the school is the lesser of the two, or $7,072.5. Therefore, Simmons University would return $7,072.5 Federal Unsubsidized Stafford Loan. Simmons will also report the withdrawal effective October 5, 2024 to the National Student Clearinghouse.

The student in this example would not need to return any additional funds since the amount to be returned by the school was the same amount to be returned.

Post withdrawal disbursement

If a student’s loans were originated but did not disburse and they were enrolled at least half time when they ceased to be enrolled, they may be eligible for a post withdrawal disbursement (PWD). (note: The student may need to resolve an issue that prevented loans from disbursing. For example, if they did not complete their loan documentation but the loan had originated, regulations state the student can complete them after last day of attending.)

We will communicate with the student, or parent in the case of a parent PLUS loan, and inform them that they can accept all, a portion or none of the PWD. The normal timeframe we allow them is 14 days to inform us of their wishes. If they do not meet our deadline, then the loan funding is cancelled. We can, on a case by case basis, extend that deadline as long as the overall length is within scope of the federal regulations.

If the student has completed their loan documents but does not respond to the offer of the PWD, the loan will need to be cancelled.

Satisfactory Academic Progress and Student Aid

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP)

To be eligible and continue to receive Federal Student Aid (FSA), students must make satisfactory academic progress toward achieving and completing their program of study through measurement of qualitative (GPA) and quantitative (completed credits) standards.

Qualitative Standard:

Students enrolled in a graduate degree program must maintain a minimum cumulative GPA established by their program

• 3.0 - Required by all on-campus programs, online library science, Nursing@Simmons, SocialWork@Simmons, and BehaviorAnalysis@Simmons
• 2.67 - Required by MPH@Simmons

How courses count when determining GPA:

Count Toward GPA	Do Not Count Toward GPA
Completed courses	Withdrawals
Failed courses	Incompletes
Repeated courses	Transfer credits

Quantitative Standard:

All graduate students must complete at least 50% of all credits attempted. This is calculated by dividing the total credits earned by the total credits attempted.

How courses count when measuring pace

Count as Completed	Do Not Count as Completed
Completed courses	Withdrawals (after add/drop)
Transfer credit	Incompletes
One repeat after a failed course	Failed courses

Additionally, all graduate students are required to complete their degree within a reasonable timeframe. As the number of credits required to complete Simmons degree varies, students should consult with their program to determine the maximum allowed for their degree. All credits attempted will count toward this timeframe.

Frequency of Review:

Academic progress will be determined by Student Financial Services based upon the information contained on the student's academic record as of the date of the review. Students must meet both the qualitative and quantitative standards in order to be eligible and continue to receive financial aid. Reviews will include all terms of the student’s attendance (including summer terms).

SAP is reviewed at the end of each term for graduate students

**Please note: Financial aid may not be disbursed to your student account until SAP has been evaluated.**

The office of Student Financial Services will complete the SAP evaluation after the prior semester grades have been officially posted by the Office of the Registrar. If grades are not made official before the beginning of the next  term, an otherwise eligible student may have their financial aid disbursement delayed.

No exceptions can be made to this process.

 

Review Results:

Satisfactory academic progress reviews result in a status for Title IV and Institutional eligibility. One of the following results will occur upon review for satisfactory academic progress:

• Satisfactory: Students are placed in this status when the SAP review determines the student is achieving the qualitative and quantitative standards required for satisfactory academic progress and can continue to receive both federal and institutional aid.
• Financial Aid Warning: Graduate students who fail to meet the qualitative and/or quantitative standards for satisfactory academic progress are placed on financial aid warning for the subsequent term of enrollment. Notification is provided when the student is placed in this status and the student's eligibility for aid is considered to be reinstated for the subsequent term of enrollment only. Students must meet SAP standards by the end of the next term.
• Financial Aid Suspension: Graduate students who fail to meet either the qualitative or quantitative standards for satisfactory academic progress will be placed in an unsatisfactory status that suspends financial aid eligibility until the next evaluation period. Notification is provided when placed on this status and the student is not allowed to continue to receive financial aid unless they complete an appeal, as described below, and it is approved.

  SAP Appeal:

  Students who are on financial aid suspension and have extenuating circumstances that may warrant an exception can:

• Continue to enroll in coursework toward their degree without using financial aid to assist with the cost. Students will have their Title IV eligibility reinstated upon successful achievement of the SAP standards. OR
• Appeal the SAP suspension by submitting a completed "SAP Appeal Form".

SAP Appeal Decisions

Students will be notified of the appeal decision via email from Student Financial Services. Students who have an appeal approved will have their status updated to financial aid probation.

• Financial Aid Probation: Students who have their financial aid suspension appeal approved are placed on financial aid probation and will have their financial aid eligibility reinstated for the following semester.
  • Graduate students on probation must meet with their academic advisor to determine their Academic Plan
  • Progress toward SAP will be evaluated at the end of each probationary semester and may require submission of additional documentation to show the student has adhered to the terms of their plan

 

Student Health Insurance

All on ground student enrolled ¾ time are required by Massachusetts State law to enroll in the Student Health Insurance Plan or be covered by a health insurance plan with comparable coverage. To ensure compliance with Massachusetts State law, Simmons students are automatically billed for the Student Health Plan, which is separate from the Health Center fee. Failure to submit a waiver form by the stated deadline will result in automatic enrollment. Students are not allowed to waive coverage with a foreign insurance carrier or Health Safety Net Plan. Only insurance companies within the United States will be accepted as substitutes for the Simmons Student Health Insurance Plan.

Simmons University does not offer Student Health Insurance to students enrolled less than ¾ time OR to the dependent(s) of any Simmons student.

If you are covered under a comparable insurance plan you may be eligible to waive the Student Health Insurance Plan. Waivers must be completed online at the website of our insurance provider, www.universityhealthplans.com. The deadline to waive the Student Health Insurance Plan for the fall semester is August 15 and the deadline to waive for the spring semester is December 15. Failure to submit a waiver by the stated deadline will result in mandatory enrollment in the Simmons University Student Health Insurance Plan with no possibility of reversal or refund of the insurance cost.

 

Tuition Refund Policies

 

The percentage of tuition to be refunded is calculated using the official drop date of the course as determined by the Registrar. Non-attendance does not constitute a drop or withdrawal from a course.

In all cases, students should be aware that any reduction in the number of registered credit hours and subsequent charges may affect their financial aid. Students considering a withdrawal or reduction in credit hours are strongly encouraged to contact their Financial Aid Officer, prior to course withdrawal, to determine the impact on financial aid eligibility. Simmons University is responsible for adhering to rules established by the federal government that determine the amount of federal financial aid a student is allowed to keep toward university charges. Please refer to the "Return of Title IV Aid" section of this webpage for more detailed information.

Tuition Refund Schedule – Fall 2024 & Spring 2025: On Ground Graduate Students

 

 

Course Dropped	% of Tuition Charges Canceled
on or before 2/4/2025	100%
2/5/25 - 2/11/25	80%
9/12/25 - 2/18/25	60%
2/19/25 - 2/25/25	40%
2/26/25 - 3/4/25	20%
on or after 3/5/25	0%

Tuition Refund Schedule – Fall 2024 & Spring 2025: Online (T1) Graduate Students

Course Dropped	% of Tuition Charges Canceled
on or before 9/23/2024	100%
9/24/24 - 9/30/24	80%
10/1/2024 - 10/7/24	60%
10/8/2024 - 10/14/24	40%
10/15/2024 - 10/21/24	20%
on or after 10/22/24	0%

 

Course Dropped	% of Tuition Charges Canceled
on or before1/27/2025	100%
1/28/25 - 2/3/25	80%
2/4/25 - 2/10/25	60%
2/11/25 - 2/17/25	40%
2/18/25 - 2/24/25	20%
on or after 2/25/25	0%

Tuition Refund Schedule for Online Students Residing in Maryland

 

 

 

Course Dropped	% of Tuition Charges Canceled
On or before the first day of class	100%
On or before the second day of class	80%
After the second day of class

 

Appeal for Exception to Tuition Refund Policy

Students are responsible for abiding by the published deadlines on the Academic Calendar and the Tuition Refund Schedule. Tuition is not refundable when students drop or withdraw from courses after the published

deadlines. If circumstances beyond the student’s control have made the late drop or withdrawal necessary, the student may appeal the tuition charge. Before a student can appeal the tuition charges, they must be officially withdrawn or dropped from the courses for which they are appealing the tuition. In all cases, students should be aware that any reduction in the number of registered credit hours and subsequent charges may affect their financial aid. It is highly recommended that all students discuss their individual situation with Student Financial Services.

Petition Refund Exceptions:

Supporting Documentation

The burden of proof rests with the students to submit documentation of the circumstances that prevent the student from adhering to the Simmons policies. All statements in the petition MUST be documented.

Documentation may include, but is not limited to:

Death of an immediate family member:

1. Certificate of death or obituaries listing relationship to deceased individual
2. Immediate family is defined as spouse, sibling, children, and/or parents 

Military deployment or military commitments:

1. Military orders if the student’s military unit was activated and deployed during the semester
2. Other official legal documents that substantiate the inability to participate in courses during the semester due to the deployment or military commitments

Submit the Appeal for Exception to Tuition Refund Policy Form and all supporting documentation to Student Financial Services, Bursar.

Reach out directly to Student Financial Services for the appeal form.

 

 

Veterans Benefits and Transition Act Compliance

The university will adhere to the requirements of and comply with the Veterans Benefits and Transition Act of 2018, specifically S2248 PL 115‐407 Section 103. The university permits any covered individual to attend or participate in the course of education during the period beginning on the date on which the individual provides to the educational institution a certificate of eligibility for entitlement to educational assistance under chapter 31 or 33 of this title. The university ensures that the educational institution will not impose any penalty, including the assessment of late fees, the denial of access to classes, libraries, or other institutional facilities, or the requirement that a covered individual borrow additional funds, on any covered individual because of the individual’s inability to meet his or her financial obligations to the institution due to the delayed disbursement of a payment to be provided by the Secretary under chapter 31 or 33 of this title.
A Covered Individual is any individual who is entitled to educational assistance under chapter 31, Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment, or chapter 33, Post-9/11 GI Bill® benefits.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.