To uphold the integrity of financial aid programs and prevent conflicts of interest with external agencies—including those related to student loans—Pasadena City College (PCC) has established a clear ethical framework for professional conduct. In accordance with the Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) of 2008, all institutions of higher education are required to implement and enforce a code of conduct that prohibits conflicts of interest for financial aid personnel.
At PCC, the Code of Conduct applies to all employees in the Financial Aid Office, as well as any other school personnel, officers, or agents involved in education loan processes. The following practices are strictly prohibited:
Revenue-Sharing Arrangements
Employees may not participate in any revenue-sharing agreement with lenders, where the lender provides Title IV loans to PCC students in exchange for benefits to the institution.
Receiving Gifts
Financial aid staff and other relevant employees may not solicit or accept gifts from lenders, guaranty agencies, or loan servicers.
Contracting Arrangements
Employees may not accept fees, payments, or other financial benefits from lenders in exchange for consulting services or contracts related to education loans.
Steering Borrowers
Staff may not assign a borrower’s loan to a specific lender or delay loan certification for any reason.
Offers of Funds for Private Loans
PCC may not accept offers of private loan funds from lenders in exchange for concessions or promises regarding Title IV loan volume.
Staffing Assistance
The college may not accept staffing support from lenders for the Financial Aid Office or call centers, except for professional development training or educational materials.
Advisory Board Compensation
Employees serving on advisory boards or committees established by lenders or guarantors may not receive compensation or anything of value for their participation.
This code ensures that all financial aid decisions are made in the best interest of students, free from external influence or personal gain.