Administrative Rules Related Legislation

  1. Home
  2. Administrative Rules

HEA 1 - General

1.01 Single Need Analysis Methodology. The board adopts the national consensus need analysis methodology for use in determining student financial strength under all state-sponsored grant programs administered by the board. Copies of the national consensus need analysis are available upon request from the board at 131 W. Wilson St., Madison, WI, 53703.

    HEA 1.01 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78; am. Register, September, 1978, No. 273, eff. 10-1-78; correction made under s. 13.93 (2m) (b) 6., Stats., Register, September, 1984, No. 345; correction made under s. 13.93 (2m) (b) 6., Stats., Register, November, 1988, No. 395; correction made under s. 13.93 (2m) (b) 6., Stats., Register, February, 1990, No. 410.

1.02 Student Data Information System. The board shall administer a student data information system which will annually:

  1. Survey student economic data including but not limited to, students' financial needs, numbers of students aided and dollar amounts awarded;
  2. Identify the various types and forms of financial aid; and
  3. Analyze the impact of the various financial aid programs.

    HEA 1.02 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78.

1.03 Program Review Procedure. The board shall administer an institutional program review procedure to review program procedures, clarify operational guidelines, identify potential problem areas and improve methods of program administration.

    HEA 1.03 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78.

HEA 1.04 Conflict of Interest. Staff members of the board or of an institutional financial aid office directly or indirectly exercising discretion in the selection of recipients or the determination of award amounts under any state program may not receive aid from such program nor may members of their immediate family. Only the executive secretary of the board may grant exemptions from this rule.

    HEA 1.04 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78.

1.05 Disbursement of Student Aid Checks. State financial aid checks sent by the board to post-secondary institutions shall be disbursed to the students by an office or person other than the office or person requesting the aid checks.

    HEA 1.05 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78.

1.06 Check Security Identification and Enrollment of Student Recipients.

  1. Post-secondary institutions receiving state financial aid checks from the board shall maintain security procedures to protect the checks from theft or loss. Checks shall be secured in a fire-proof locked file, vault or safe during non-office hours.
  2. Post-secondary institutions shall disburse aid checks to students only after the student has presented positive identification and evidence that the student is or will be enrolled at the institution.
  3. Checks shall be disbursed by the institution only to those students who are enrolled at least half-time in a certificate, diploma or degree course of study. Courses which are for a high school diploma or its equivalent, are not to be included in the minimum half-time status necessary to receive a check.
  4. Students who hold an earned bachelor's degree are not eligible for assistance for any of the undergraduate assistance programs administered by the board.

    HEA 1.06 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78; cr. (3) and (4), Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.

1.07 Unclaimed Checks. State financial aid checks not claimed within 21 days of their receipt by the post-secondary institution shall be promptly returned to the board, unless there is reason to believe that the checks will be claimed shortly.

    HEA 1.07 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78.

1.08 Authorization for Release of Financial Information. Financial aid applicants and their parents agree that, to verify information reported on any state financial aid application, they will upon request provide to the board an official photostatic copy of their most recently filed state or U.S. income tax return. Applicants, in the case of independent students, and parents, in the case of dependent students, further agree to provide, if requested by the board, any other official documentation necessary to verify information reported on any state financial aid application.

    HEA 1.08 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78; renum. from s. HEA 1.09, Register, February, 1990, No. 410, eff. 3-1-90.

1.09 Confidential Student and Parent Information. Without the written authorization of the student and parent, respectively, no individually identifiable financial need calculation data or state grant award information shall be released by the board except to the financial aid office of an educational institution the student proposes to attend, and the Wisconsin Educational Opportunity Program offices. This does not restrict the board from releasing aggregate statistical information.

    HEA 1.09 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.


HEA 2 - Definitions

Note: Chapter HEA 2 as it existed on March 31, 1978 was repealed and a new chapter HEA 2 was created effective April 1, 1978.

2.01 Definitions. In chs. HEA 1 to 12:

  1. "Board" means agency as headed by the executive secretary.
  2. "Executive secretary" means the individual appointed under s. 39.29, Stats., to administer and direct the activities of the board in compliance with s. 15.04, Stats.
  3. "Full-time enrollment" means at least 12 academic credits per semester or the quarterly equivalent and applies to all board financial need based student assistance programs.
  4. "Independent or self-supporting student" means a student who meets the currently used federal definition of independent or self-supporting student.
  5. "Instruction related fees" means all fees directly related to instruction in the classroom and which are charged to all students within a recognizable academic program category.
  6. "Nonprofit" means a governmental agency, subdivision of government, school district, technical college district or similar body and any agency, organization or institution owned and operated by one or more nonprofit corporations or associations, no part of the net earnings of which inures, or may lawfully inure, to the benefit of any private shareholder or individual.
  7. "Satisfactory academic progress" means that level of academic performance, as defined by the institution in which the student is enrolled, which is normally required to insure adequate progress toward the attainment of the appropriate degree or certificate.
  8. "Tuition" means all tuition and instruction related fees charged by the institution.

    HEA 2.01 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78; am. (intro.), renum. (1) to (5) to be (7), (6), (8), (5), (4) and am. (7), cr. (1) to (3), Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92; correction in (6) made under s. 13.93 (2m) (b) 6., Stats., Register, February, 1998, No. 506.


HEA 4 - Tuition Grants

Note: Chapter HEA 4 as it existed on March 31, 1978, was repealed and a new chapter HEA 4 was created effective April 1, 1978.

4.01 Application Deadline. A student must apply for a tuition grant prior to or during the term for which the student expects to receive the grant.

    HEA 4.01 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78.

4.02 Study Abroad. Any eligible student who, as a part of the academic program in which the student is enrolled at an eligible Wisconsin institution, attends an institution outside the United States may receive a tuition grant for the period of study abroad so long as the tuition cost of the program is paid directly to the Wisconsin institution and the credits earned are acceptable by the institution in serving the degree toward which the student is working.

    HEA 4.02 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78.

4.03 Accelerated and Summer Session. If an institution certifies that an eligible student is enrolled in approved accelerated study, which may include a summer session or 4th quarter, that will permit the student to complete a degree program in less than the normal period of full-time study for such degree, the student will be eligible for a prorated tuition grant for each academic term of accelerated study.

    HEA 4.03 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78.

4.04 Tuition Charges. To be eligible for a tuition grant, the student must be charged an actual tuition by the institution. If for any reason a student is not charged a tuition or it is waived, no tuition grant will be awarded. If a partial tuition charge is made, then the partial amount shall be used to calculate the student's eligibility for a tuition grant.

    HEA 4.04 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78.

4.05 Institutional Responsibilities.

  1. The student's eligibility for a tuition grant shall be certified by the institution of higher education in which the student is enrolled.
  2. The institution shall provide the board with information necessary for the proper administration of the tuition grant program. Such information may include but is not limited to:
    1. Proof of accreditation through a federal accepted accrediting agency is required;
    2. Proof of state and federal non-profit status;
    3. Tuition costs, instruction related fees, and all other student educational costs;
    4. The number and dates of the institution's academic semesters or terms; and
    5. The number of credits which must be carried by full-time students.

    HEA 4.05 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78; am. (2) (a) and (b), Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.

4.06 Adjustments to Family Financial Strength. Procedures shall be available to the institutions which will enable the adjustment in a student's financial strength and resulting grant amount. Such adjustment procedures shall be available to correct inaccurate information and respond to the changing financial circumstances of students.

    HEA 4.06 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78; renum. from s. HEA 4.07, Register, February, 1990, No. 410, eff. 3-1-90.


HEA 5 - Wisconsin Higher Education Grants

5.01 Part-time Students. Wisconsin Higher Education Grants shall be awarded to students who are enrolled as at least half-time students as determined by the institution in which the student is enrolled.

    HEA 5.01 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78.

5.02 Priority/Rolling Application Deadline. No specific application deadline shall be established in the Wisconsin Higher Education Grant Program, but rather a priority date with a rolling deadline. A student must, however, apply for a Wisconsin Higher Education Grant prior to or during the term for which the student expects to receive the grant.

    HEA 5.02 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78.

5.03 Adjustments to Family Financial Strength. Procedures shall be available to the institutions which will enable the adjustment of the student's financial strength and resulting grant amount. Such adjustment procedures shall be available to correct inaccurate information and respond to the changing financial circumstances of students.

    HEA 5.03 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78.

5.04 Talent Incentive Grant Eligibility. To be eligible for an initial grant award, a uniquely needy student shall be a Wisconsin resident, a first-time freshman and meet at least one criterion under sub. (1) and one criterion under sub. (2). The minimum award a freshman can receive will be $600 with the maximum being $1,800.

  1. Financial need criteria.
    1. A dependent student whose expected academic year parent contribution is $200 or less, or an independent student whose academic year contribution is $200 or less.
    2. The family of a dependent student or the student, if independent, is receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families or Wisconsin Works benefits.
    3. The parents of dependent students or the student, if independent, are ineligible for unemployment compensation and have no current income from employment.
  2. Non-traditional student status criteria.
    1. The student is a member of one of the minority groups defined in s. 39.44 (1) (a), Stats.
    2. The student is or will be enrolled in a special academic support program due to insufficient academic preparation.
    3. The student is a first-generation post-secondary student, neither of whose parents graduated from a 4 year college or university.
    4. The student is handicapped according to Department of Workforce Development, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation records or according to the Special Needs or Disabilities Office on Wisconsin college or university campuses which use the Americans with Disabilities Act definition under 42 USC 12102 (2).
    5. The student is currently or was formerly incarcerated in a correctional institution.
    6. The student's environmental or academic background is such that it deters the pursuit of educational plans.

    HEA 5.04 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78; r. and recr. Register, February, 1990, No. 410, eff. 3-1-90; am. (2) (c), Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5- 1-92; correction in (intro.) made under s. 13.93 (2m) (b) 12., Stats., Register, February, 1995, No. 470; correction in (2) (d) made under s. 13.93 (2m) (b) 6., Stats., Register, February, 1998, No. 506; CR 02-148: am. (1) (a), (b), (2) (d) and (f) Register August 2003 No. 572, eff. 5-1-04.

5.05 Continued Talent Incentive Grant Eligibility.

  1. To continue to receive a grant after the freshman year, the student shall maintain half-time status per academic term and academic progress towards a degree, diploma or certificate as determined by the institution the student is attending. The minimum award shall be set annually by the board for sophomores, juniors and seniors.
  2. The student shall maintain continuous enrollment from semester to semester, or quarter to quarter, to remain eligible for a grant award for the sophomore, junior and senior years. Exceptions to this requirement shall be made by the executive secretary and will be for illnesses or disabilities which prevent attendance. All such exceptions will be certified by a doctor. No more than 12 months exception from the continuous enrollment requirement will be authorized by the executive secretary. Exceptions will be made by the executive secretary for persons affected by their active duty military service.

    HEA 5.05 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78; r. and recr. Register, February, 1990, No. 410, eff. 3-1-90; emerg. am. (2) eff. 4-4-03; CR 02-148: am. (2) Register August 2003 No. 572, eff. 9-1-03.

5.06 Criteria for Handicapped Students Attending Private or Public Institutions in Other States. To be eligible for a grant under s. 39.435 (5),Stats., a student may be enrolled in a nonprofit public or private college, technical college or conservatory of music located in Wisconsin; or in a nonprofit public or private college, technical college or conservatory of music located outside Wisconsin if:

  1. The institution specializes in the training of deaf or hard of hearing or visually handicapped students;
  2. The institution offers the student a course of study not offered by an institution located in Wisconsin; or
  3. An appropriately recognized third party (doctor, psychologist, etc.) recommends such training for physical, psychological or emotional reasons; and that this determination be confirmed by the exceptional education mission team of the Department of Public Instruction.

    HEA 5.06 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78; renum. from s. HEA 5.07, Register, February, 1990, No. 410, eff. 3-1-90; correction in (3) made under s. 13.93 (2m) (b) 6., Stats., Register, February, 1995, No. 470; corrections in (intro.) made under s. 13.93 (2m) (b) 6., Stats., Register, February, 1998, No. 506.


HEA 6 - Indian Student Assistance

Note: Chapter HEA 6 as it existed on March 31, 1978, was repealed and a new chapter HEA 6 was created effective April 1, 1978.

6.01 Indian Eligibility. To be eligible for a grant under the Indian Student Assistance Program, a student must have one-quarter Indian blood as certified by the appropriate Indian agency; or be recognized, for purposes of the program, as a member of a tribe by the appropriate tribal government.

    HEA 6.01 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78.

6.02 Grants for Summer School. Grants may be awarded under the program to eligible students enrolling in summer school.

    HEA 6.02 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78.

6.03 Relationship with the Bureau of Indian Affairs. The Indian Student Assistance Program shall be administered in such a way so as to insure an integrated and cooperative relationship with the Bureau of Indian Affairs which administers a similar federal program.

    HEA 6.03 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78.

6.04 Part-time Study.

  1. An eligible student who is enrolled at least one-half time shall receive up to the statutory maximum based upon financial need.
  2. An eligible student who is enrolled less than half-time shall receive a grant equal to actual educational costs including tuition, fees and books.
  3. The amount of the grant awarded to an eligible student enrolled in a special program shall be determined through negotiation among the sponsors of the special program including the institution, Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the board. Before students enrolled in a special program are aided, however, the program must receive prior approval of the Education Committee of the Great Lakes Inter-tribal Council.

    HEA 6.04 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, March, 1978, No. 267, eff. 4-1-78; am. (1), Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.


HEA 8 - Nursing Student Stipend Loans

8.01 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to define the various aspects of the Nursing Student Stipend Loan Program authorized by s. 39.39, Stats., as created by 1987 Wis. Act 399, as to the awarding of the loans; their forgiveness or their repayment.

    HEA 8.01 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, November, 1988, No. 395, eff. 12-1-88.

8.02 Definitions.

  1. "Accredited institution" means an institution of higher education in Wisconsin which is accredited by a national or state accrediting agency, and which provides an associate degree, diploma or bachelors degree program in nursing.
  2. "Board" means the Higher Educational Aids Board.
  3. "Full-time enrollment" means enrollment in at least 12 academic credits per semester or the quarterly equivalent as determined by the educational institution.
  4. "Loan" means the Nursing Student Stipend Loan Program.

    HEA 8.02 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, November, 1988, No. 395, eff. 12-1-88.

8.03 Borrower Eligibility. In order to receive a loan, the borrower shall satisfy the following requirements:

  1. The borrower shall be a resident of the United States being either a citizen or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence by the Federal Immigration and Naturalization Service.
  2. The borrower shall be a Wisconsin resident as determined by the board using the residency standards of s. 36.27, Stats.
  3. The borrower shall be enrolled full-time in an eligible Wisconsin institution in either the second year of a 2 year associate degree nursing program in a technical college system; the third year of a 3 year nursing diploma course; or in the junior or senior year of a bachelor degree program in a non-profit public or private college or university.

    HEA 8.03 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, November, 1988, No. 395, eff. 12-1-88; correction in (3) made under s. 13.93 (2m) (b) 6., Stats., Register, February, 1998, No. 506.

8.04 Terms of Loans.

  1. Eligible borrowers may receive up to $2,500 a year based upon their financial need as determined through use of the national needs analysis as used under s. 39.435, Stats. The exact loan amount will be equal to the borrower's cost of education minus the student and parental contribution, minus the grant aid the borrower is offered.
  2. The total the borrower may borrow from the board shall not exceed $5,000 in outstanding principal.
  3. For loans which are not forgiven but must be repaid, the interest rate shall be 5% per annum on the unpaid principal balance with accrual beginning upon the initial date of repayment. Interest shall not accrue during periods of full-time enrollment; employment for forgiveness; or during board authorized periods of deferment from repayment.

    HEA 8.04 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, November, 1988, No. 395, eff. 12-1-88.

8.05 Loan Forms and Application Process.

  1. A student seeking a loan shall submit to both the board and the borrower's institutional financial aid office the nationally accepted needs analysis form used by the institution and the board. The forms are available from the institutional financial aid offices. The board shall provide the agreement form to the borrower after the loan has been approved.
  2. The institutional aid office shall determine the borrower's cost of education and financial contribution within the requirements set by the board. The aid office shall decide if the borrower shall receive a loan.
  3. The institutional aid office shall notify the board of the loan amount for the borrower. The board shall voucher a check for the borrower's loan after the borrower's signed agreement form has been received by the board. The agreement form shall set forth the terms of the loan; the terms of forgiveness; the terms of repayment; and the borrower's rights and responsibilities.
  4. All borrower contact concerning forgiveness and repayment shall be with the board. After leaving school the borrower is required to maintain contact with the board until the loan is either forgiven or repaid. The borrower is required to forward all name, address and telephone changes to the board.

    HEA 8.05 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, November, 1988, No. 395, eff. 12-1-88.

8.06 Loan Forgiveness.

  1. Loans shall be forgiven when the borrower is employed as a registered nurse in a Wisconsin hospital, nursing home, or home health agency. For every 12 months of employment, $1,000 shall be forgiven, with the amount to be prorated in cases where fewer months are worked. The borrower shall be given a maximum of 7 years of nursing employment to work the 5 years equivalent to the maximum of $5,000 which can be borrowed.
  2. The maximum of 7 years allowed for forgiveness shall be extended by the board for up to a total of 3 years for active duty military service; National Health Service; Peace Corps and VISTA; and such time periods approved by the board for pregnancy or temporary physical or emotional disability. In no instance shall the term of forgiveness exceed 10 years including periods of deferments authorized by the board.
  3. Any loan principal remaining unforgiven whether because the 7 year period is over or the borrower has not been employed or has moved out of state, shall be repaid with interest accrued from the date the borrower ceased working as a nurse in Wisconsin or ceased being a student.
  4. Only borrowers holding a 2 year associate degree, a 3 year diploma or a bachelor's degree in nursing shall be eligible for forgiveness.
  5. No interest shall be charged the borrower during the forgiveness period.

    HEA 8.06 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, November, 1988, No. 395, eff. 12-1-88.

8.07 Terms of Repayment.

  1. Borrowers shall repay a loan if not employed as a nurse in Wisconsin. Repayment shall be required of borrowers who are employed for periods of time but who do not complete their forgiveness within the time allowed under s. HEA 8.06 (1) and (2).
  2. The minimum monthly payment shall be $50 including principal and accrued interest. Accrued interest shall be paid first each month from the payment received. The board shall determine the monthly repayment schedule, although a borrower may request a schedule with a higher monthly payment.
  3. A borrower shall repay the loan within a maximum of 10 years not counting periods of deferment granted by the board. Interest shall not accrue during periods of deferment authorized by the board.
  4. Borrowers may prepay any or all of their loan account without penalty whether the borrower is in school, forgiveness, repayment or deferment.
  5. If a borrower dies or becomes totally and permanently disabled, his or her obligation to make any further payment of principal and interest on the loan is canceled.

    HEA 8.07 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, November, 1988, No. 395, eff. 12-1-88.

8.08 Deferment of Loan Repayment for Borrowers.

  1. Borrowers who return to school on a full-time basis in any course of study at an accredited institution shall be deferred by the board from repayment for the period of enrollment.
  2. Borrowers who enter the military on active duty shall be deferred by the board from repayment for up to 3 years. National Guard or reserve duty are not eligible for deferment.
  3. Borrowers who enter the National Health Service, Peace Corps or VISTA, shall be deferred by the board from repayment for up to 3 years. Employment with similar private agencies is not eligible for deferment unless the agencies are federally tax exempt.
  4. Borrowers who are unemployed may be deferred from repayment by the board for up to 6 months at a time as long as they provide proof, satisfactory to the board, of actively seeking employment.
  5. The board shall defer borrowers from repayment for up to 6 months of each pregnancy.
  6. The board may grant forbearance from repayment for the benefit of the borrower. Forbearance means an extension of time for making loan payments or the acceptance of smaller payments than were previously scheduled. The board may grant forbearance whenever unemployment, health, other personal problems, or study that is ineligible for deferment temporarily affects the borrower's ability to make scheduled payments on the loan.
  7. In order to receive a deferment, a borrower shall apply to the board. If the borrower submits written evidence that verifies eligibility for the deferment, the board shall approve the deferment.

    HEA 8.08 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, November, 1988, No. 395, eff. 12-1-88.


HEA 9 - Wisconsin Academic Excellence Scholarship

Note: Chapter HEA 9 as it existed on February 28, 1998 was repealed and a new chapter HEA 9 was created effective March 1, 1998.

9.01 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to define the various aspects of the Wisconsin Academic Excellence Scholarship Program authorized by s. 39.41, Stats., as to the naming of the scholar and the responsibilities of the high school, and continuing student eligibility and the responsibilities of the educational institution.

    HEA 9.01 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, February, 1998, No. 506, eff. 3-1-98.

9.02 Definitions. In this chapter:

  1. "GPA" means the cumulative grade point average, as it is normally determined by each high school.
  2. "High school" means a Wisconsin school with grades 9-12 which is recognized by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.
  3. "Institution" means a public or private non-profit institution of higher education in Wisconsin which is accredited by a national or state accrediting agency, and which has signed a participation agreement with the Higher Educational Aids Board in accordance with s. 39.41 (5) (a), Stats.
  4. "Scholar" means a student determined to be eligible to receive a monetary award under the Academic Excellence Scholarship Program.
  5. "Scholarship" means the Wisconsin Academic Excellence Scholarship authorized by s. 39.41, Stats.

    HEA 9.02 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, February, 1998, No. 506, eff. 3-1-98.

9.03 Scholar Qualifications. A scholar who is otherwise eligible to receive a monetary award under the scholarship program shall receive an award only if all of the following apply:

  1. The scholar is a resident of the United States who is either a citizen or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence by the Federal Immigration and Naturalization Service.
  2. The scholar is a Wisconsin resident according to the residency standards of s. 36.27, Stats.

    HEA 9.03 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, February, 1998, No. 506, eff. 3-1-98.

9.04 Naming the Scholar.

  1. The number of scholarships available to each high school shall be based on the enrollment in that school as of the 3rd Friday in September in the academic year in which the scholar is selected. No adjustment shall be made to the number of scholarships available even if the enrollment increases or decreases during the academic year.
  2. Students under ch. 220, Stats., and students participating in the full-time open enrollment program shall compete for the scholarship at the high school they actually attend.
  3. The scholar shall be selected based on the scholar's GPA as it is normally determined by each high school and as shown on the official transcript as of the last day of the last semester that ended just prior to the February 15 deadline.
  4. For purposes of selecting the scholars and alternate scholars, the scholar's and alternate's GPA shall include the same number of places past the decimal that the high school normally uses on the official high school transcript.
  5. No scholarships shall be re-allocated after the February 15 deadline. The school's nominees and alternates are final.
  6. High schools which operate on a tri-mester system shall have 30 days beyond the last day of the 2nd tri-mester to submit the name of the scholar.

    HEA 9.04 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, February, 1998, No. 506, eff. 3-1-98.

9.05 High School Responsibilities.

  1. Each school board of the school district, or the governing body of a private high school, shall determine, and have in writing, a policy establishing how long a student must have attended that high school to compete for the scholarship, how the student acquires senior status, and when the student is eligible to compete for the scholarship.
  2. Each school board of the school district, or the governing body of a private high school, shall determine, and have in writing, a policy defining the grading system used in that high school, including whether it is weighted or unweighted, which subjects are included in the GPA on the official high school transcript, how pass-fail grades are incorporated into the GPA, how grades from study abroad or from alternative or home schools are incorporated into the GPA, and how to incorporate grades earned in another country by students with permanent resident status.
  3. The faculty of each high school shall determine, and have in writing, a policy that describes the tie breaking procedures and criteria used to determine the scholars and alternates and to put them in rank order.
  4. High schools with fewer than 80 students shall submit to the Higher Educational Aids Board the name of the senior with the highest GPA in all subjects by February 15 of each school year. The GPA shall be based on a 4.000 grade point scale with the grade of "A" equaling 4.000. Grades shall be unweighted for this GPA and shall be expressed on a 4.000 scale. The high schools shall also submit:
    1. A copy of the student's high school transcript.
    2. The student's highest score and percentile ranking earned on the American College Test, Scholastic Aptitude Test, or other test required by the Wisconsin institution in which the student intends to enroll.
    3. A letter from the student indicating the reasons that the student feels qualified for the scholarship and an intent to attend, by September 30 of the year in which the student graduates from high school, a participating University of Wisconsin institution, a participating private institution of higher education in Wisconsin, or a participating institution in the Wisconsin Technical College System.
    4. The secretary shall designate the 10 students with the highest GPAs in high schools with fewer than 80 students, as the recipients of the scholarship. In the event of a tie, the secretary shall rank students based on the scores from the American College Test, the Scholastic Aptitude Test, or other comparable tests. If a tie remains, the secretary shall rank students based on the content and quality of the students' letters.

    HEA 9.05 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, February, 1998, No. 506, eff. 3-1-98.

9.06 Continuing Scholar Eligibility.

  1. To receive an Academic Scholarship for a second year, the scholar shall have accumulated at least 24 semester credits, or their quarterly equivalent as determined by the Higher Educational Aids Board, and have achieved a 3.000 GPA based on a 4.000 system.
  2. To receive an Academic Scholarship for a third year, the scholar shall have accumulated at least 48 semester credits, or their quarterly equivalent as determined by the Higher Educational Aids Board, and have achieved a 3.000 GPA based on a 4.000 system.
  3. To receive an Academic Scholarship for a fourth year, the scholar shall have accumulated at least 72 semester credits, or their quarterly equivalent as determined by the Higher Educational Aids Board, and have achieved a 3.000 GPA based on a 4.000 system.
  4. The Higher Educational Aids Board shall pay to the institution, on behalf of the scholar, the award only for the first or second semester, or first, second, or third quarter of attendance. Awards shall not be made for summer term or other special terms of attendance, nor shall awards be made before the first term of the academic year following the scholar's senior year in which he or she was selected as a recipient.
  5. The scholar shall be enrolled in consecutive regular semester or quarter academic terms to maintain continuing eligibility. Exceptions to consecutive term enrollment, such as for medical reasons or study abroad, shall be considered by the secretary on a case by case basis.
  6. Scholars shall be able to regain eligibility through consecutive term enrollment which could bring their credits earned up to the minimum required or their grade point average to the cumulative minimum of 3.000 or both.
  7. Eligibility for a scholarship ceases when the scholar receives a bachelor's degree.

    HEA 9.06 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, February, 1998, No. 506, eff. 3-1-98.

9.07 Institutional Responsibilities.

  1. The institution shall match the scholarship award provided by the Higher Educational Aids Board from its own funds each academic term for each scholar enrolled.
  2. The scholarship shall not replace other need based state grant assistance in the package of financial aid offered to the scholar by the institution.
  3. Funds advanced by the Higher Educational Aids Board for scholars who do not enroll shall be promptly returned to the Higher Educational Aids Board as soon as it becomes evident to the institution that the scholars will not enroll. The institutions shall also return funds to the Higher Educational Aids Board in cases where the scholar withdraws from the institution prior to the end of the institutionally determined refund period. In these instances the institution shall determine the amount to be returned to the Higher Educational Aids Board based upon the institution's refund policy.
  4. The institution shall provide the Higher Educational Aids Board with the cumulative grade point average and cumulative academic credits earned by each scholar enrolled for all or part of the academic year no later than the July 1st following the end of the academic year. Until this information is certified to the Higher Educational Aids Board, the board shall not make any additional payments to the institution on behalf of the scholar.

    HEA 9.07 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, February, 1998, No. 506, eff. 3-1-98.


HEA 10 - Independent Student Grant

10.01 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to define the various aspects of the Independent Student Grant Program authorized by s. 39.45, Stats., as to the awarding of the grants and their repayment.

    HEA 10.01 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.

10.02 Definitions. In this chapter:

  1. "Grant" means the Independent Student Grant Program.
  2. "Half-time enrollment" means enrollment in at least 6 academic credits per semester or the quarterly equivalent as determined by the educational institution.
  3. "Institution" means an institution of higher education in Wisconsin which provides associate degree or bachelor's degree programs and meets the requirements of s. 39.30 or 39.45, Stats., for the purpose of awarding grants under those sections.

    HEA 10.02 - ANNOT. Note: Reference to "board" refer to the Higher Educational Aids Board.

    HEA 10.02 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.

10.03 Student Eligibility.

  1. The student shall be a resident of the United States, either a citizen or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence by the Federal Immigration and Naturalization Service.
  2. The student shall be a Wisconsin resident as determined by the board using the residency standards of s. 36.27, Stats.
  3. The student shall be enrolled at least half-time in an eligible Wisconsin institution in either the second or third year of an associate degree program; or in the junior, senior or fifth year of a bachelor degree program.
  4. The student shall be a recipient of aid to families with dependent children under s. 49.19, Stats., at the time they apply for their initial independent student grant.

    HEA 10.03 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.

10.04 Terms of Grants.

  1. Eligible students may receive up to $4,000 an academic year based upon their financial need as determined through use of the national needs analysis as required in s. 39.435, Stats.
  2. The total amount received from the board shall not exceed $12,000 nor may the student receive grant awards for more than 3 academic years.
  3. For grants which must be repaid, the interest rate shall be 5% annually on the unpaid principal balance with interest accrual beginning upon the initial date of repayment. Interest shall not accrue during periods of deferment from repayment.
  4. The student may receive a supplemental grant of between $500 and $1,000 per child for child care assistance, based upon the financial need of the student, for each semester during which a dependent preschool age child requires child care. The child care must take place in facilities provided by a child care organization under provisions of ch. HFS 55, and excludes child care provided by relatives or friends of the student. The supplemental grants provided under this subsection are not subject to the repayment provisions of sub. (3). Supplemental grants are not available for the care of children who are enrolled in first grade or higher grades in public or private elementary or secondary schools.

    HEA 10.04 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92; correction in (4) made under s. 13.93 (2m) (b) 7., Stats., Register, February, 1998, No. 506.

10.05 Application Process.

  1. The institutional financial aid office shall determine the student's cost of education and financial contribution within the requirements set by the board. The institutional financial aid office shall decide if the borrower shall receive a grant.
  2. The institutional aid office shall notify the board of the grant amount for the student. The board shall provide the agreement form to the student after the grant has been approved. The board shall voucher a check for the student's grant after the student's signed agreement form has been received by the board. The agreement form shall set forth the terms of the grant; the terms of repayment; and the student's rights and responsibilities.
  3. All student contact concerning repayment shall be with the board. After leaving school the student is required to maintain contact with the board until the student is no longer liable for repayment as certified to the student by the board. The student shall forward his or her name, address and telephone changes to the board.

    HEA 10.05 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.

10.06 Terms of Repayment.

  1. Repayment of the grant is not required if the student earns an associate or bachelor's degree within 5 years of receiving the last grant award. Students who do not earn either degree, or who leave Wisconsin prior to earning either degree shall repay the grant amounts received with interest. If repayment is required, it is to begin 5 years after receiving the last grant award.
  2. The minimum monthly payment shall be $50 including principal and accrued interest. Accrued interest shall be deducted first from each monthly payment. The board shall determine the monthly repayment schedule, although a student may request a schedule with a higher monthly payment.
  3. A student shall repay the grant within a maximum of 10 years not counting periods of deferment granted by the board. Interest shall not accrue during periods of board authorized deferments.
  4. Students may prepay any or all of their grant account without penalty whether in school, in prepayment or in deferment.
  5. If a student dies, or becomes totally disabled as certified by a physician, his or her obligation to make any further payment of principal and interest on the grant is canceled.

    HEA 10.06 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.

10.07 Deferment of Grant Repayment for Students.

  1. Students who return to school on at least a half-time basis in any course of study at an accredited institution in any state shall be deferred by the board from repayment for the period of enrollment.
  2. Students who enter the military on active duty shall be deferred by the board from repayment for up to 3 years. Students in the National Guard or on reserve duty are not eligible for deferment when the duty is for training purposes.
  3. Students who enter the National Health Service, Peace Corps or VISTA, shall be deferred by the board from repayment for up to 3 years. Employment with similar private agencies is not eligible for deferment unless the agencies are federally tax exempt.
  4. Students who are unemployed shall be deferred from repayment by the board for up to 6 months at a time, as long as they provide proof satisfactory to the board that they are actively seeking employment.
  5. The board shall defer students from repayment for up to 12 months due to pregnancy and childbirth, and including the legal adoption of a child.
  6. The board shall grant forbearance from repayment for the benefit of the student. Forbearance means an extension of time for making grant payments or the acceptance of smaller payments than were previously scheduled. The board may grant forbearance whenever unemployment, health, other personal problems, or academic study that is ineligible for deferment temporarily affects the student's ability to make scheduled payments on the grant.
  7. In order to receive any deferment, a student shall apply to the board. If the student submits written evidence that verifies eligibility for the deferment, the board shall approve the deferment including the amount of time for which the student is determined to be deferrable from repayment.

    HEA 10.07 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.


HEA 11 - Minority Teacher Loan Program

11.01 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to define the various aspects of the Minority Teacher Loan Program authorized by s. 39.40, Stats., as to the awarding of the loans; their forgiveness; or their repayment.

    HEA 11.01 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.

11.02 Definitions. In this chapter:

  1. "Eligible institution" means a non-profit, private institution of higher education in Wisconsin which is accredited by a national or state accrediting agency, and which provides a major in education.
  2. "Loan" means the Minority Teacher Loan Program.

    HEA 11.02 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.

11.03 Borrower Eligibility.

  1. The borrower shall be a resident of the United States, either a citizen or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence by the Federal Immigration and Naturalization Service.
  2. The borrower shall be a Wisconsin resident as determined by the board using the residency standards of s. 36.27, Stats.
  3. The borrower shall be enrolled at least half time in an eligible institution in the junior or senior year of a bachelor degree program majoring in education.
  4. The borrower shall have a cumulative 2.5 grade point average based on a 4.0 system at the time of receipt of the loan.
  5. The borrower shall not be required to show financial need.

    HEA 11.03 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92; emerg. am. (3), cr. (5), eff. 8-6-99; am. (3), cr. (5), Register, March, 2000, No. 531, eff. 4-1-00.

11.04 Terms of Loans.

  1. Eligible borrowers may receive up to $2500 a year. The exact loan amount will be equal to the borrower's cost of education minus the need-based aid the borrower is offered. Loans for students which are need based may be replaced in the package of aid by the Minority Teacher Loan Program.
  2. The total the borrower receives under this program shall not exceed $5,000 in outstanding principal.
  3. For loans which are not forgiven but must be repaid, the interest rate shall be 5% annually on the unpaid principal balance with accrual beginning upon the initial date of repayment. Interest shall not accrue during periods of full-time enrollment; employment for forgiveness; or during board authorized periods of deferment from repayment.
  4. The initial date of repayment will be determined by the board in each instance beginning no sooner than the date a borrower withdrew from school or graduated.

    HEA 11.04 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.

11.05 Loan Forms and Application Process.

  1. A student seeking a loan shall contact the institutional financial aid office.
  2. The institutional financial aid office shall determine the borrower's cost of education within the requirements set by the board. The institutional financial aid office shall decide if the borrower shall receive a loan under this program.
  3. The institutional financial aid office shall notify the board of the loan amount for the borrower. The board shall voucher a check for the borrower's loan after the borrower's signed agreement form has been received by the board. The agreement form shall set forth the terms of the loan; the terms of forgiveness; the terms of repayment; and the borrower's rights and responsibilities.
  4. All borrower contact concerning forgiveness and repayment shall be with the board. After leaving school the borrower shall maintain contact with the board until the loan is either forgiven or repaid. The borrower is required to forward all name, address and telephone number changes to the board.

    HEA 11.05 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.

11.06 Loan Forgiveness.

  1. Loans shall be forgiven when the borrower is employed as a teacher in an eligible Wisconsin school district. For every academic year of full-time employment, 25% of the principal and accrued interest, if any, shall be forgiven, with the amount to be prorated in cases where less time has been worked. The borrower shall be given a maximum of 6 years to work the required 4 years for full forgiveness.
  2. The maximum of 6 years allowed for forgiveness shall be extended by the board for up to a total of 3 years for active duty military service; Peace Corps and VISTA; and a year for pregnancy, childbirth or the legal adoption of a child or for temporary physical or emotional disability. In no instance shall the term of forgiveness exceed 9 years including periods of deferments authorized by the board. The executive secretary may allow additional periods of deferment in exceptional situations.
  3. Any loan principal remaining unforgiven shall be repaid with interest accrued from the date the borrower ceased working as a teacher in Wisconsin or ceased being a student, whichever is the latest date.
  4. Only borrowers holding a bachelor's degree in teaching and licensed by the Department of Public Instruction shall be eligible for forgiveness.
  5. No interest shall be charged the borrower during the forgiveness period.

    HEA 11.06 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.

11.07 Terms of Repayment.

  1. Borrowers shall repay a loan if not employed as a teacher in an eligible Wisconsin school district. Repayment shall be required of borrowers who are employed for periods of time but who do not complete their forgiveness within the time allowed under s. HEA 11.06 (1) and (2).
  2. The minimum monthly payment shall be $50 including principal and accrued interest. Accrued interest shall be paid first each month from the payment received. The board shall determine the monthly repayment schedule, although a borrower may request a schedule with a higher monthly payment.
  3. A borrower shall repay the loan within a maximum of 10 years not counting periods of deferment granted by the board. Interest shall not accrue during periods of deferment authorized by the board.
  4. Borrowers may prepay any or all of their loan account without penalty whether the borrower is in school, forgiveness, repayment or deferment.
  5. If a borrower dies or becomes totally and permanently disabled, his or her obligation to make any further payment of principal and interest on the loan is canceled.

    HEA 11.07 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.

11.08 Deferment of Loan Repayment for Borrowers.

  1. Borrowers who return to school on a full-time basis in any course of study at an accredited institution shall be deferred by the board from repayment for the period of enrollment.
  2. Borrowers who enter the military on active duty shall be deferred by the board from repayment for up to 3 years. Students on National Guard or on reserve duty for training are not eligible for deferment.
  3. Borrowers who enter the Peace Corps or VISTA, shall be deferred by the board from repayment for up to 3 years. Employment with similar private agencies is not eligible for deferment unless the agencies are federally tax exempt.
  4. Borrowers who are unemployed may be deferred from repayment by the board for up to 6 months at a time as long as they provide proof, satisfactory to the board, of actively seeking employment.
  5. The board shall defer borrowers from repayment for up to a year due to pregnancy, childbirth, or the legal adoption of a child.
  6. The board may grant forbearance from repayment for the benefit of the borrower. Forbearance means an extension of time for making loan payments or the acceptance of smaller payments than were previously scheduled. The board may grant forbearance whenever unemployment, health, other personal problems, or educational study that is ineligible for deferment temporarily affects the borrower's ability to make scheduled payments on the loan. Periods of forbearance shall not exceed 6 months for each approved request.
  7. In order to receive a deferment, a borrower shall apply to the board. If the borrower submits written evidence which verifies eligibility for the deferment, the board shall approve the deferment.

    HEA 11.08 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.


HEA 12 - Minority Undergraduate Grants

12.01 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to define various terms of the Minority Undergraduate Grants Program authorized by s. 39.44, Stats., as to the student eligibility for grants.

    HEA 12.01 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.

12.02 Student Eligibility.

  1. The student shall be a resident of the United States, either a citizen or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence by the Federal Immigration and Naturalization Service.
  2. The student shall be a Wisconsin resident as determined by the Higher Educational Aids Board using the residency standards of s. 36.27, Stats.
  3. The student shall be enrolled as a sophomore, junior or senior on at least a half-time basis in a technical college system institution established under ch. 38, Stats., or a private non-profit college or university in Wisconsin eligible to participate in the grant program authorized under s. 39.30, Stats.
  4. Students with an earned bachelor's degree are not eligible to receive a grant under this program.

    HEA 12.02 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92.

12.03 Grant Amount.

  1. The student's grant award shall not exceed $2,500 per academic year.
  2. A student's grant eligibility shall extend for a maximum of 8 semesters or 12 academic quarters of grant eligibility.
  3. Grants shall be made on the basis of financial need determined by the national needs analysis as used under s. 39.435, Stats.

    HEA 12.03 - ANNOT. History: Cr. Register, April, 1992, No. 436, eff. 5-1-92; correction in (3) made under s. 13.93 (2m) (b) 6., Stats., Register, February, 1998, No. 506.


HEA 13 - Teacher Education Loan Program

13.01 Purpose. To define the various aspects of the Teacher Education Loan Program authorized by s. 39.395, Stats., as created by 1997 Wis. Act 27, as to the awarding of loans, their forgiveness, or their repayment.

    HEA 13.01 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-078: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

13.02 Definitions.

  1. "Board" means the Higher Educational Aids Board.
  2. "Eligible school district" means the Wisconsin school district operating under ch. 119, Stats., First Class City School System (currently only the Milwaukee Public Schools).
  3. "Forbearance" means an extension of time for making loan payments or the acceptance of smaller payments than were previously scheduled.
  4. "Loan" means a loan made under the Teacher Education Loan Program.
  5. "MTEC" is the abbreviation for the Milwaukee Teacher Education Center; a non-stock, non-profit corporation organized under ch. 181, Stats.

    HEA 13.02 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-078: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

13.03 Borrower Eligibility.

  1. The borrower shall be a resident of the United States either a citizen or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence by the Federal Immigration and Naturalization Service.
  2. The borrower shall be a Wisconsin resident as determined by the board using the residency standards of s. 36.27, Stats.
  3. The borrower shall be enrolled in a teacher education program at MTEC.
  4. The borrower shall not be required to show financial need.

    HEA 13.03 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-078: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

13.04 Terms of Loan.

  1. Eligible borrowers shall receive a minimum award of $250. The maximum award amount shall be set annually by the board. The exact amount of the award shall not exceed the borrowerís cost of education, as determined by MTEC using recognized federal methodology, minus the need-based aid the borrower is offered. Loans for students that are need-based may be replaced in the package of aid by the Teacher Education Loan.
  2. For loans that are not forgiven and must be repaid, the interest rate shall be 5% annually on the unpaid principal balance with accrual beginning upon the initial date of repayment. Interest shall not accrue during periods of full-time enrollment; employment that qualifies for forgiveness; or during board-authorized periods of deferment from repayment.
  3. The initial date of repayment shall be determined by the board in each instance beginning no sooner than the day after the borrower withdraws or graduates from school.

    HEA 13.04 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-078: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

13.05 Application Process.

  1. A borrower seeking a loan shall contact MTEC.
  2. MTEC shall determine the borrowerís cost of education within the requirements set by the board. MTEC shall decide if the borrower shall receive a loan under this program.
  3. MTEC shall notify the board of the loan amount for the borrower. The board shall issue a check for the borrowerís loan after the borrowerís signed agreement form has been received by the board.
  4. All borrowerís contact concerning forgiveness and repayment shall be with the board. After leaving MTEC the borrower shall maintain written annual contact with the board until the loan is either forgiven or repaid. The borrower shall forward all name, address, and telephone number changes to the board.

    HEA 13.05 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-078: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

13.06 Loan Forgiveness.

  1. Loans shall be forgiven when the borrower is employed as a full-time teacher in the eligible school district. For every academic year of employment, 50% of the principal and accrued interest, if any, shall be forgiven, with the amount to be prorated in cases where fewer months are worked. The borrower shall be given a maximum of 3 years to work the required 2 years for full forgiveness.
  2. The maximum of 3 years allowed for forgiveness shall be extended by the board for up to a total of 3 years for approved periods of deferment, as referenced in s. HEA 13.09. In no instance shall the term of forgiveness exceed 6 years including periods of deferments authorized by the board. The executive secretary may allow additional periods of deferment in exceptional situations.
  3. Any loan principal remaining unforgiven either because the forgiveness period as defined in subs. (1) and (2) is over, or because the borrower has not been employed for forgiveness as defined in sub. (1) or has moved out of state, shall be repaid to the state of Wisconsin with interest accrued from the date on which the forgiveness period ended.
  4. Only borrowers who have completed the teacher education program at MTEC and who are licensed to teach by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction shall be eligible for forgiveness.
  5. No interest shall be charged to the borrower during the forgiveness period.

    HEA 13.06 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-078: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

13.07 Terms of Repayment.

  1. The borrower shall repay the loan if not employed as a full-time teacher in the eligible school district. Repayment shall be required of borrowers who are employed for periods of time but who do not complete their forgiveness within the time allowed.
  2. The minimum monthly payment shall be $50 including principal and accrued interest. Accrued interest shall be paid first each month from the payment received. The board shall determine the monthly repayment schedule, although the borrower may request a schedule with a higher monthly payment.
  3. The borrower shall repay the loan within a maximum of 6 years not counting periods of deferment granted by the board. Interest shall not accrue during periods of deferment authorized by the board.
  4. The borrower may prepay any or all of the loan without penalty whether the borrower is in school, forgiveness, repayment, or deferment.
  5. If the borrower dies or becomes totally and permanently disabled, all obligation to make any further payment of principal and interest on the loan shall be canceled.

    HEA 13.07 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-078: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

13.08 Deferment of Loan Repayment for Borrowers.

  1. Borrowers who return to school on a full-time basis in any course of study at an accredited institution shall be deferred from repayment by the board for the period of enrollment.
  2. Borrowers who are on active duty in the military shall be deferred from repayment by the board for the period of their active duty, not to exceed 3 years.
  3. Borrowers who enter the Peace Corps or Volunteers in Service to America shall be deferred from repayment by the board for the term of their active service, not to exceed 3 years. Employment with a similar private agency may be eligible for deferment, as determined by the executive secretary, if the agency is federally tax exempt.
  4. Borrowers who are unemployed shall be deferred from repayment by the board for up to 6 months at a time, up to a maximum of 24 months, as long as they provide proof, satisfactory to the board, that they are actively seeking employment.
  5. Borrowers who become pregnant, give birth or legally adopt a child shall be deferred from repayment by the board for up to 12 months.
  6. In order to receive a deferment, the borrower shall apply to the board. If the borrower submits written evidence that verifies eligibility for the deferment, the board shall approve of and grant the deferment.
  7. The board may grant forbearance from repayment for the benefit of the borrower. The board may grant forbearance whenever unemployment, health, other personal problems, or study that is ineligible for deferment temporarily affects the borrowerís ability to make scheduled payments on the loan. Periods of forbearance may not exceed 6 months for each approved request, up to a maximum of 24 months.

    HEA 13.08 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-078: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

HEA 13.09 Applicability. Chapter HEA 13 shall apply to all loans made since the inception of the program.

    HEA 13.09 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-078: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.


HEA 14 - Teacher of the Visually Impaired Loan Program

14.01 Purpose. To define the various aspects of the Teacher of the Visually Impaired Loan Program authorized by s. 39.398, Stats., as created by 1999 Wis. Act 9 as to the awarding of the loans; their forgiveness; or their repayment.

    HEA 14.01 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-079: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

14.02 Definitions.

  1. "Board" means the Higher Educational Aids Board.
  2. "Eligible institution" means a non-profit, private institution of higher education in Wisconsin or a physically adjacent state [(as defined in s. 175.46 (1) (d). Stats.] which is accredited by a national or state accrediting agency, and which provides a program that prepares persons to be licensed as teachers of visually impaired pupils or as orientation and mobility instructors.
  3. "Forbearance" means an extension of time for making loan payments or the acceptance of smaller payments than were previously scheduled.
  4. "Grace period" means a six-month period following withdrawal or graduation during which the borrower is not responsible for interest or payment.
  5. "Loan" means a loan made under the Teacher of the Visually Impaired Loan Program.

    HEA 14.02 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-079: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

14.03 Borrower Eligibility.

  1. The borrower shall be a resident of the United States, either a citizen or an alien lawfully admitted for permanent residence by the Federal Immigration and Naturalization Service.
  2. The borrower shall be a Wisconsin resident as determined by the board using the residency standards of s. 36.27, Stats.
  3. The borrower shall be enrolled at least part-time in an eligible institution in a program that prepares persons to be licensed as teachers of the visually impaired or as orientation and mobility instructors.
  4. The borrower shall not be required to show financial need.
  5. To the extent possible, preference shall be given to persons who are likely to remain or return to Wisconsin to work with visually impaired persons.

    HEA 14.03 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-079: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

14.04 Terms of Loans.

  1. Eligible borrowers shall receive a minimum annual award of $250. The maximum annual award shall not exceed $10,000. The exact amount of the award shall not exceed the borrowerís cost of education, as determined by the eligible institution using recognized federal methodology, minus the need-based aid the borrower is offered. Loans for students that are need-based may be replaced in the package of aid by the Teacher of the Visually Impaired Loan. The total the borrower receives under this program shall not exceed $40,000 in outstanding principal.
  2. For loans that are not forgiven but must be repaid, the interest rate shall be 5% annually on the unpaid principal balance with accrual beginning upon the initial date of repayment. Interest shall not accrue during periods of at least half-time enrollment; grace period; employment that qualifies for forgiveness; or during board authorized periods of deferment from repayment.
  3. The initial date of repayment shall be determined by the board in each instance beginning no sooner than 6 months after the borrower withdraws or graduates from the eligible institution. There shall be a six-month grace period that will start the day after the person withdraws or graduates from the eligible institution. The borrower shall not be required to make payment during the grace period

    HEA 14.04 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-079: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

14.05 Application Process.

  1. A borrower seeking a loan shall contact the eligible institutionís financial aid office.
  2. The eligible institutionís financial aid office shall determine the borrowerís cost of education within the requirements set by the board. The board shall decide if the borrower shall receive a loan under this program.
  3. The eligible institutionís financial aid office shall notify the board of the loan amount for the borrower. The board shall issue a check for the borrowerís loan after the borrowerís signed agreement form has been received by the board.
  4. All borrower contact concerning forgiveness and repayment shall be with the board. After leaving school the borrower shall maintain written annual contact with the board until the loan is either forgiven or repaid. The borrower is required to forward all name, address and telephone number changes to the board.

    HEA 14.05 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-079: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

14.06 Loan Forgiveness.

  1. Loans shall be forgiven when the borrower is licensed and employed, at least part-time, in Wisconsin as a teacher of visually impaired pupils or as orientation and mobility instructor by a Wisconsin school district, the Wisconsin Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired or a cooperative educational service agency. For the first academic year of full-time employment, 25% of the principal and accrued interest, if any, shall be forgiven, with the amount to be prorated in cases where less time has been worked. For the second academic year of full-time employment, 25% of the principal and accrued interest, if any, shall be forgiven, with the amount pro-rated in cases where less time has been worked. For the third academic year of full-time employment, 50% of the principal and accrued interest, if any shall be forgiven, with the amount pro-rated in cases where less time has been worked. The borrower shall be given a maximum of 6 years to work the required 3 years for full forgiveness.
  2. The maximum of 6 years allowed for forgiveness shall be extended by the board for up to a total of 3 years for approved periods of deferment, as referenced in s. HEA 14.08. In no instance shall the term of forgiveness exceed 9 years including periods of deferments authorized by the board. The executive secretary may allow additional periods of deferment in exceptional situations.
  3. Any loan principal remaining unforgiven either because the forgiveness period as defined in subs. (1) and (2) is over, or because the borrower has not been employed for forgiveness as defined in sub. (1) or has moved out of state, shall be repaid to the State of Wisconsin with interest accrued from the date on which the forgiveness period ended.
  4. Only borrowers holding a license in teaching visually impaired pupils or as an orientation and mobility instructor shall be eligible for forgiveness.
  5. No interest shall be charged the borrower during the forgiveness period.

    HEA 14.06 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-079: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

14.07 Terms of Repayment.

  1. Borrowers shall repay a loan if not employed, at least part-time, as a teacher of visually impaired pupils or as an orientation and mobility instructor in a Wisconsin school district, the Wisconsin Center for the Blind or an educational service agency. Repayment shall be required of borrowers who are employed for periods of time but who do not complete their forgiveness within the time allowed.
  2. The monthly payment shall be a minimum of $50 including principal and accrued interest. Accrued interest shall be paid first each month from the payment received. The board shall determine the monthly repayment schedule, although a borrower may request a schedule with a higher monthly payment.
  3. A borrower shall repay the loan within a maximum of 15 years not counting periods of deferment granted by the board. Interest shall not accrue during periods of deferment authorized by the board.
  4. Borrowers may prepay any or all of their loan account without penalty whether the borrower is in school, forgiveness, repayment or deferment.
  5. If the borrower dies or becomes totally and permanently disabled, all obligation to make any further payment of principal and interest on the loan shall be canceled.

    HEA 14.07 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-079: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

14.08 Deferment of Loan Repayment for Borrowers.

  1. Borrowers who return to school on a full-time basis in any course of study at an accredited institution shall be deferred by the board from repayment for the period of enrollment.
  2. Borrowers who are on active duty in the military shall be deferred by the board from repayment for the period of their active duty, not to exceed to 3 years.
  3. Borrowers, who enter the Peace Corps or Volunteers in Service to America, shall be deferred by the board from repayment for the term of their active service, not to exceed 3 years. Employment with similar private agencies is eligible for deferment, as determined by the executive secretary, if the agency is federally tax exempt.
  4. Borrowers who are unemployed shall be deferred from repayment by the board for up to 6 months at a time, up to a maximum of 24 months, as long as they provide proof, satisfactory to the board, of actively seeking employment.
  5. Borrowers who become pregnant, give birth or legally adopt a child shall be deferred from repayment by the board for up to 12 months.
  6. In order to receive a deferment, a borrower shall apply to the board. If the borrower submits written evidence, which verifies eligibility for the deferment, the board shall approve the deferment.
  7. The board may grant forbearance from repayment for the benefit of the borrower. The board may grant forbearance whenever unemployment, health, other personal problems, or educational study that is ineligible for deferment temporarily affects the borrowerís ability to make scheduled payments on the loan. Periods of forbearance may not exceed 6 months for each approved request, up to a maximum total of 24 months.

    14.08 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-079: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

14.09 Applicability. Chapter HEA 14 shall apply to all loans made since the inception of the program.

    HEA 14.09 - ANNOT. History: CR 01-079: Cr. Register January 2002 No. 553, eff. 2-1-02.

HEA 15 - Wisconsin Covenant Scholars Program

Note: Chapter Adm 80 was renumbered chapter HEA 15 under s. 13.92 (4)(b) 1., Stats., Register November 2011 No. 671.

15.01 Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to define the various aspects of the Wisconsin Covenant Scholars program authorized by s. 39.437, Stats., as to the awarding of grants to Wisconsin Covenant Scholars, and to implement s. 16.257, Stats.

Note: Section 16.257, Stats., was repealed by 2011 Wis. Act 32.

    HEA 15.01 - ANNOT. History: CR 10-027: cr. Register September 2010 No. 657, eff. 10-1-10.

15.02 Definitions. In this chapter:

  1. "Board" means the higher educational aids board.
  2. "Eligible institution" means a public or private, non-profit, accredited institution of higher education or a tribally controlled college in Wisconsin which is eligible to participate in the grant program authorized under s. 39.30, Stats.
  3. "Grant" means a grant awarded under the Wisconsin Covenant Scholars Program, unless otherwise specified.
  4. "Half-time enrollment" means enrollment in at least six academic credits per semester or the quarterly or special term equivalent as determined by the educational institution.
  5. "Full-time enrollment" means enrollment in at least twelve academic credits per semester or the quarterly or special term equivalent as determined by the educational institution.
  6. "Office" means the office of the Wisconsin Covenant Scholars Program.
    Note: The Office of the Wisconsin Covenant Scholars Program was eliminated by 2011 Wis. Act 32. Future rulemaking will address the affect on this chapter of the elimination of the "office."
  7. "Scholar" means a student determined to be eligible to receive a monetary award under the Wisconsin Covenant scholar program.
  8. "High school" refers to grades nine through twelve.
  9. "Serious misdemeanor" means a misdemeanor involving bodily harm or a dangerous weapon

    HEA 15.01 - ANNOT. History: CR 10-027: cr. Register September 2010 No. 657, eff. 10-1-10.

15.03 Designation of scholar.

  1. To be designated as a Wisconsin Covenant scholar by the office for the purpose of grant eligibility, a student must do all of the following:
    1. Enroll in the Wisconsin Covenant Scholars Program by submitting the appropriate paperwork to the office by September 30th of the student's freshman year in high school.
    2. Meet all of the following eligibility requirements:
      1. Receive a diploma from a Wisconsin high school.
      2. Maintain approximately a B average while in high school.
        The approximate B average shall be calculated in one of the following ways:
        1. The student has a career cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.85 or higher on a 4.0 scale; or
        2. The student earned a GPA of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale for at least 5 semesters and never earned less than a 2.0 in any semester; or have enrolled in the Wisconsin Covenant Scholars program under sub. (1) (a) by December 31 of their senior year of high school.
        3. The student earned a GPA of 3.25 or higher on a 4.0 scale during the first semester of senior year and has shown consistent improvement since the beginning of high school.
      3. Complete course credit that shall prepare the student for the college or university the student intends to attend, which shall be shown in one of the following ways:
        1. The student shows admission to at least one eligible institution; or
        2. The student lists 3 eligible institutions at which the student intends to apply and confirms that the student's coursework meets or exceeds the course requirements for the colleges or universities listed.
      4. Demonstrate good citizenship and engage in activities that support the community. To show that the student has demonstrated good citizenship and engaged in activities that support the community, the student shall meet both of the following requirements:
        1. The student must not have been convicted of a felony or serious misdemeanor and, if the student was suspended during high school, the student must provide two letters of recommendation which show substantial personal growth following the suspension from school faculty or other community members; and
        2. The student was involved in one of the following activities extra curricular activities that contain an element of community service and can document at least 30 hours of service; or a school sponsored service learning experience that meets a high school graduation requirement; or a service learning experience that was designed by the student, and the results of which were shared with the student's teachers.
      5. Show that the student submitted a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) on or before April 1 of the student's senior year of high school. Extensions for extenuating circumstances may be made solely at the discretion of the office.
      6. Apply and do all that is necessary to gain admission to an eligible institution, which shall be shown in one of the following ways:
        1. Has been admitted to at least one eligible institution; or
        2. Plans to apply to at least 3 eligible institutions and meets those institutions’ admission guidelines.
    3. Complete the Wisconsin Covenant scholar verification form, consistent with the Wisconsin Covenant scholar verification instructions, and submit the form to the office by April 1 of the student’s senior year of high school. The form must be signed by the school principal or the principal’s designee to be considered valid.
  2. By April 30th of each year, the office shall submit to the board a list of scholars eligible for grant consideration.
    1. The current Wisconsin Covenant scholar verification instructions and form shall be available on the office’s website by November 1 of each year and must be completed and sent to the office by April 1 of the following year. In addition, the current Wisconsin Covenant scholar verification instructions and form shall be mailed to students who have enrolled in the Wisconsin Covenant Scholars program under sub. (1) (a) by December 31 of their senior year of high school.

    HEA 15.03 - ANNOT. History: CR 10-027: cr. Register September 2010 No. 657, eff. 10-1-10.

15.04 Scholar qualifications for award. A scholar who meets the requirements of s. HEA 15.03 shall receive an award only if all of the following apply:

  1. The scholar is eligible for in-state tuition pursuant to s. 36.27 (2), Stats.; and
  2. The scholar is admitted to an eligible institution and enrolled, within one academic year of high school graduation, in an undergraduate degree or certificate program eligible for federal student aid under Title IV of the federal Higher Education Act leading to an undergraduate degree, diploma, or certificate from an eligible institution. Board staff may make exceptions to the one year enrollment requirement on a case-by-case basis due to health, military service or other personal reasons.
  3. The scholar's name does not appear on the statewide support lien docket under s. 49.854 (2) (b), Stats., unless the person provides the board a payment agreement that has been approved by the county child support agency under s. 59.53 (5), Stats., and that is consistent with rules promulgated under s. 49.858 (2) (a), Stats.

    HEA 15.04 - ANNOT. History: CR 10-027: cr. Register September 2010 No. 657, eff. 10-1-10; correction in (intro.) made under s. 13.92 (4) (b) 7., Stats., Register November 2011 No. 671.

15.05 Continuing scholar eligibility.

  1. A scholar may receive the grant award for no more than the equivalent of eight semesters. The equivalent may include a combination of traditional semesters, summer terms or other measurements of academic year. The eight semesters need not be continuous, but the student is eligible for the grant only within five academic years of his or her high school graduation.
  2. The scholar may not receive a grant in any semester in which the student is not enrolled at least half-time.
  3. Eligibility for the grant awards ceases if:
    1. The scholar does not maintain acceptable academic standards as prescribed by the student's institution of higher education; or
    2. The scholar does not file an updated Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) annually; or
    3. The student does not enroll in accordance with s. HEA 15.04 (2); or
    4. The scholar is convicted of a felony or serious misdemeanor.

    HEA 15.05 - ANNOT. History: CR 10-027: cr. Register September 2010 No. 657, eff. 10-1-10; correction in (3) (c) made under s. 13.92 (4) (b) 7., Stats., Register November 2011 No. 671.

15.06 Terms of grants.

  1. Eligible institutions shall enter into a five-year contract with the board using the established financial aid distribution process. Annual program funds for the Wisconsin Covenant Scholars grant program shall be allocated through these contracts for a period of five academic years following the high school graduation of each class of Wisconsin Covenant Scholars.
  2. Family Contribution (EFC) calculated by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) based on the following designations. Scholars shall receive the full grant amounts listed below regardless of the scholars' unmet need except in case where awarding the full amount conflicts with federal laws related to over-awarding in the financial aid process. In that instance, the grant may be reduced in order to comply with federal law.
    1. For students attending an eligible institution full time:
      1. Scholars with an EFC of $0 shall receive $1,000 annual grant for the first two years of postsecondary education. For the second two years of postsecondary education, the office shall develop and submit to the board a formula for awarding grants for the upcoming academic years to scholars enrolled in an eligible institution. The formula shall account for expected parental and student contributions and shall be consistent with generally accepted definitions and nationally approved needs analysis methodology.
        1. This award amount assumes that the Wisconsin Covenant Foundation shall continue to grant $1,500 annually for the first two years of postsecondary education for students with an EFC of $0.
        2. If the Wisconsin Covenant Foundation does not award at least $1,500 annually for the first two years of postsecondary education, then students with a $0 EFC shall receive $1,500 annually rather than $1,000 for the first two years of postsecondary education.
      2. Scholars with an EFC of $1 to $3,499 shall receive $1,500 annual grant for the first two years of postsecondary education. For the second two years of postsecondary education, the office shall develop and submit to the board a formula for awarding grants for the upcoming academic years to scholars enrolled in an eligible institution.
      3. Scholars with an EFC of $3,500 to $11,999 shall receive $1,000 annual grant for the first two years of postsecondary education. For the second two years of postsecondary education, the office shall develop and submit to the board a formula for awarding grants for the upcoming academic years to scholars enrolled in an eligible institution.
      4. Scholars with an EFC of $12,000 or greater shall receive $250 annual grant for the first two years of postsecondary education. For the second two years of postsecondary education, the office shall develop and submit to the board a formula for awarding grants for the upcoming academic years to scholars enrolled in an eligible institution.
    2. For students attending an eligible institution half time:
      1. Scholars with an EFC of $12,000 or greater shall receive $250 annual grant for the first two years of postsecondary education. For the second two years of postsecondary education, the office shall develop and submit to the board a formula for awarding grants for the upcoming academic years to scholars enrolled in an eligible institution.
      2. Scholars with an EFC of $3,500 to $11,999 shall receive $500 annual grant for the first two years of postsecondary education. For the second two years of postsecondary education, the office shall develop and submit to the board a formula for awarding grants for the upcoming academic years to scholars enrolled in an institution.
      3. Scholars with an EFC of $12,000 or greater shall receive $125 annual grant for the first two years of postsecondary education. For the second two years of postsecondary education, the office shall develop and submit to the board a formula for awarding grants for the upcoming academic years to scholars enrolled in an eligible institution.

    HEA 15.06 - ANNOT. History: CR 10-027: cr. Register September 2010 No. 657, eff. 10-1-10.

15.07 High school responsibilities. On or before January 31 of each year, the office shall provide to each high school principal or principal's designee a list of students who are eligible for verification in that year. By April 5 of each year, each high school principal or principal's designee is required to provide a list of students who completed the pledge and have been certified by the Office of the Wisconsin Covenant verification form, as well as those students who did not present a form for verification.

    HEA 15.07 - ANNOT. History: CR 10-027: cr. Register September 2010 No. 657, eff. 10-1-10.

15.08 Institutional and partner responsibilities.

  1. Each eligible institution shall ensure that the Wisconsin Covenant Scholars grant does not replace other need-based federal, state, or institutional grant assistance in the package of financial aid offered to the scholar by the institution.
  2. Funds shall be returned to the board, using the board's established Return of Funds policy s. HEA 1.07 for scholars who withdraw, drop out or fail to enroll.
  3. To help make the Wisconsin Covenant a reality for Wisconsin students and their families, the University of Wisconsin System, the Wisconsin Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, the Wisconsin Technical College System, and the Department of Public Instruction shall work together to ensure:
    1. There is a place for each scholar in higher education. The respective systems shall work to prioritize the entrance of the Covenant Scholars into their systems and identify a place for each scholar in the higher education system of their choice.
    2. Scholars can access available financial resources including but not limited to scholarships, grants, loans, and work that will put higher education within reach for each scholar.
    3. Support for the scholars in middle and high school to help them achieve their goals through the continuation, expansion, or establishment of pre-college programming, mentoring, tutoring, and other local supports.
  4. The University of Wisconsin System, the Wisconsin Association of Independent Colleges and Universities, the Wisconsin Technical College System, and the Department of Public Instruction shall report annually to the office detailing the nature of support the system is providing for the scholars as well the outcomes of this support. The office shall work in conjunction with the reporting agencies regarding the annual goals of the report and substance of the report.

    HEA 15.08 - ANNOT. History: CR 10-027: cr. Register September 2010 No. 657, eff. 10-1-10.

15.09 Wisconsin Covenant College Access Network Council.

  1. Pursuant to s. 16.257, Stats., the office shall establish a Wisconsin Covenant College Access Network Council charged with coordinating statewide college access programs and organizations in an effort to minimize duplication of effort and maximize student pursuit of postsecondary education.
    Note: Section 16.257, Stats., was repealed by 2011 Wis. Act 32.
  2. The members of this council shall include:
    1. Director, Office of the Wisconsin Covenant;
      Note: The Office of the Wisconsin Covenant was eliminated by 2011 Wis. Act 32.
    2. President, University of Wisconsin System;
    3. President, Wisconsin Technical College System;
    4. President, Wisconsin Association of Independent Colleges and Universities;
    5. Superintendent, Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction;
    6. Executive Secretary, Higher Education Aids Board.
  3. In addition, the council shall appoint associate members representing each of the following:
    1. A non-profit organization with significant college access programming; and
    2. A non-profit organization that provides significant funding for college access programming; and
    3. A representative from the business community.

    HEA 15.09 - ANNOT. History: CR 10-027: cr. Register September 2010 No. 657, eff. 10-1-10; renumbering of (2) and (3) made under s. 13.92 (4) (b) 1., Stats., Register September 2010 No. 657.

HEA 15.10 Reporting system. The reporting system contemplated by s. 39.437 (5) (a), Stats., is established under s. HEA 1.02 and administered by the board. The board shall share this information on an annual basis with the office.

    HEA 15.10 - ANNOT. History: CR 10-027: cr. Register September 2010 No. 657, eff. 10-1-10.

This is unofficial text

Please note that under Wisconsin State Statute 35.18 (2) only printed volumes are official text.

Table of Contents