Border universities respond to new transcript rules

EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — Higher education institutions will no longer be able to withhold transcripts from students who are unable to make student loan payments.

Colleges and universities across the country can no longer withhold diplomas or transcripts from students who are delinquent on their student loans, under a new federal regulation that went into effect Monday.

The law, passed by the U.S. Department of Education, applies to schools whose students receive federal financial aid.

“Finally, you don’t have to feel so pressured by the university,” said Miguel Padilla, a student at the University of Texas El Paso. “It could help them get their money faster, you know, because once you get that transcript, you can use it for a job or an internship.”

In an emailed statement to KFOX14/CBS4, a UTEP spokesperson said, “In accordance with regulatory changes mandated by the U.S. Department of Education, effective July 1, UTEP will no longer place withholds on transcripts from students who have outstanding debts to the university, regardless of the reason for the debt.”

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A spokesman for New Mexico State University said similarly;

“NMSU has reviewed the regulations and has made the decision not to withhold official transcripts associated with student debt to the university. While the regulations allow for circumstances in which a transcript may be withheld, NMSU has determined that there are alternatives we can implement to recover outstanding balances.

“We hope that all students understand their out-of-pocket costs before they begin their studies at NMSU and plan accordingly. NMSU also provides education regarding students’ financial well-being and what may potentially be considered out-of-pocket costs. We also understand that life circumstances happen. The goal is for students to graduate with limited debt to the university.

“As a result, NMSU will no longer have official transcripts for student account balances. This does not mean the debt will not be owed and that collection efforts will continue, but official transcripts will not be the tool used to collect balances as of July 1, 2024.”

El Paso Community College also said it will comply with the new rules.

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