Online Students from Out-of-State

Marist University is a participant in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA). This agreement allows Marist to offer distance-learning programs to students residing in other SARA member states without having to secure individual state approvals. 

There is a process for eligible students to file consumer protection complaints against Marist for allegations of dishonest or fraudulent activity – for example, the provision of false or misleading information concerning costs, accreditation, licensure eligibility, program deliverability or transferability. 

This process does not apply to complaints concerning grades, faculty performance, or student conduct, which should be addressed according Marist's Guide for Student Concerns and Complaints.

The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) offers guidance on how to file a consumer protection complaint, both through general guidance and information specific to New York State. These resources are provided for information only. Students cannot submit complaints through NC-SARA.

Internal Complaint Process

Eligible Marist students are online students residing in SARA member states other than New York. Complaints must initially be addressed to Marist University, by email to: ExtendedLearning@marist.edu. Complaints must be initiated before the end of the semester following the date of the incident. The university will attempt to respond within 15 business days of receiving the complaint. The student may appeal the university’s decision to Academic.Affairs@marist.edu within 15 business days of receiving the reply. The university will attempt to respond to the student within 15 business days of receiving the appeal. 

External Complaint Process

If not satisfied with the result of the institution’s internal complaint process, the student may file an appeal with the SARA State Portal Entity in New York State within two years of the date of the incident. Complainants should complete the New York State Education Department (NYSED) Office of College and University Evaluation Complaint Form and include documentation of Marist's determination.  

NYSED may consult with relevant agencies and will notify both the student and Marist of its decision. They also submit data to NC SARA in aggregate form.

Contact Information for External Complaints

Eligible students may reach the New York State SARA Portal Entity as follows:

Andrea Richards
Supervisor of Higher Education Programs
New York SARA Student Complaint Process Agency
New York State Education Department
89 Washington Ave, 960 EBA
Albany, NY 12234
518-474-1551
IHEauthorize@nysed.gov
https://www.nysed.gov/college-university-evaluation/complaints