MSCHE Statement on Recent Paul Smith’s College Actions

The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) is aware of media reports regarding Paul Smith’s College and the Commission’s action of April 26, 2023, requesting a supplemental information report (SIR). MSCHE has repeatedly responded to media inquiries providing the information that is contained within this statement. It has become necessary to provide public clarification regarding the nature of the Commission action as media reports have published inaccurate information.

On April 26, 2023, the Commission acted to request an SIR including a teach-out plan and teach-out agreements as required by the Commission’s Teach-Out Plans and Agreement(s) Policy and Procedures and 34 CFR §602.24(c). This Commission action was the result of the notification by the United States Department of Education Office of Federal Student Aid (FSA) that the institution had been placed on the reimbursement payment method under 34 CFR 668.162(c), referred to as Heightened Cash Monitoring 2 (HCM2). In these circumstances, the Commission is required to obtain a teach-out plan.

This is a required action per MSCHE policy and procedures as well as federal regulation. Paul Smith’s College has not announced a closure, nor has the institution communicated an anticipated or planned closure to the Commission.

For additional information regarding HCM2, please visit the FSA website. For questions about the institution’s accreditation status, please contact communications@msche.org.