Frequently Asked Questions

Should parents and students be concerned with the academic program at St. Andrews?

SACS has three issues with St. Andrews. All three related to finances; not one had an issue with the college’s academic programs.

Does this affect federal aid programs at St. Andrews?

No. Because the school’s accreditation continues, students at St. Andrews continue to be eligible for all federal aid programs.

Would you please outline the steps in the appeals process and the expected timing of these steps?

St. Andrews has formally appealed the decision by SACS. The hearing for the appeal took place on August 22. Because the administrative appeal was denied, St. Andrews filed a lawsuit in federal court in the Middle District of North Carolina. Federal District Court Judge Carlton Tilley has set August 29 as the date to hear and rule on our Motion for a Preliminary Injunction. As all hearings and proceedings in this matter will be scheduled at the discretion of the court, the timeline for resolution may be months or years. Throughout the process, St. Andrews will remain accredited.

Will courses taken during this time be accredited for students?

Yes. During the appeal process St. Andrews remains fully accredited and so any courses taken by students will be fully accredited.

What about courses previously taken?

Those courses are also accredited courses.

Who should I talk with about accreditation at St. Andrews?

New students should call their admissions counselor while current students should call Cynthia Robinson, Associate Vice President for Enrollment and Student Services, at 910-277-5738 or Glenn Batten, Vice President for Enrollment and Student Services. Students may also reach both at 1-800-763-0198. Alumni may call Susan Wentz, Director of Alumni Affairs, at 910-277-5665 while media and community calls go to Gary Greene, Communications Director, at 910-277-5671.

Why do we believe we will be successful on appeal?

Our confidence in our case lies in the facts about St. Andrews and the strategic plan we have in place. As part of our plan, we decided to increase enrollment to 1,100 students. This required borrowing funds on very favorable terms to provide the resources needed to reach our enrollment goal. As a direct result, our enrollment has increased 32% over the past four years and more students are choosing to commit to the four years it takes to receive a St. Andrews degree. St. Andrews is in a strong financial position as well. We have increased net revenues by 69% and recently completed a $36 million fundraising campaign.

How can I support St. Andrews during this time?

It’s important for all  to understand that we are fully committed to keeping St. Andrews accredited. New students and returning students should continue with their plans to attend St. Andrews this fall.  Our alumni can help with their gifts in the coming year as well as their encouragement of prospective students to attend St. Andrews. We will continue to keep you updated and will let you know of ways that you can help.