Outside State Complaint Process Related to Distance Learning

SARA and Student Complaints

Pursuant to Wis. Stats. Ch. 39.85, et. al, the State of Wisconsin is a member of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) through the Midwestern Higher Education Compact which regulates the manner in which participating institutions may offer distance learning education to students who reside in other states. The University of Wisconsin-Whitewater is a participating institution in MSARA. NC-SARA is a voluntary, regional approach to state oversight of postsecondary distance education. The terms and conditions of SARA can be found at SARA Policies.

If a student has a complaint that involves distance learning education offered under the terms and conditions of SARA, the student must file a complaint with the institution first to seek resolution. If no resolution is reached, then the student may file a complaint with the Wisconsin Distance Learning Authorization Board. For purposes of this process, a complaint shall be defined as a formal assertion in writing that the terms of this agreement, or of laws, standards or regulations incorporated by the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements Policies and Standards have been violated by the institution operating under the terms of SARA.

Additional information can be found at the DLAB Frequently Asked Questions.

Notification of UW System Complaint Process for Program Integrity

Pursuant to the United States Department of Education's Program Integrity Rule, an individual may file a complaint against any of the Universities of Wisconsin public institutions alleging a violation of one or more of the following categories with the University of Wisconsin System Administration (UWSA):

• Complaints that allege a violation of state consumer protection laws that include but are not limited to fraud and false advertising.
• Complaints that allege a violation of state law or rule relating to the licensure of postsecondary institutions.
• Complaints relating to the quality of education or other state or accreditation requirements.

Under the UWSA policies and procedures, an individual should utilize the institution's internal complaint or review policies and procedures through the Office of Student Affairs or Office of the Provost prior to contacting the UWSA. If a resolution is not reached at the institution level, or if you believe that the nature of the complaint or its impact on the system as a whole warrants an immediate review, you may file a formal complaint by completing and submitting the complaint form.

If you have further questions, please contact the Office of Academic Affairs at oaa@wisconsin.com or call 608.262.8778. The UWSA complaint process is available at Student Complaints.