At Pierce College, we believe it is important for students to feel informed and empowered about their financial responsibilities. As part of our commitment to transparency and your success, you may be asked to review and accept the Student Financial Responsibility Agreement (SFA) each year.
This agreement is designed to help you understand your financial obligations when enrolling in classes and outlines the college’s policies.
It is a simple way for you to acknowledge your financial responsibilities and be aware of what to expect if any issues arise. We are here to support you and ensure you have all the information you need to make informed decisions about your education.
Who needs to complete the Student Financial Responsibility Agreement?
Most students enrolling in courses that charge tuition/fees will be required to complete the SFA prior to their first registration for the year.
Some students, including those who are younger than 18-years-old and those students who are not charged tuition, may be exempt from completing the form while they are in that status.
What is the SFA and how do I complete it?
The SFA is an important agreement that outlines financial obligations and responsibilities for attendance at Pierce College. If required, you will complete the SFA in ctcLink by selecting “Holds.” The SFA may also be provided to you electronically or via paper if you are registering outside of ctcLink.
How often do I need to complete the SFA?
The SFA must be completed once per year (summer through spring), or if changes to the current agreement are mandated.
What if I don’t accept the SFA?
If your status requires completion of the SFA, you must review and accept it annually to register for classes.
What if someone else is responsible for paying my account (i.e. through a sponsorship or employer)?
Each student is responsible for their account and unpaid balances, especially if a third-party payer does not cover the full amount. It is important to be aware of this and understand the terms outlined in the SFA.
Why must I complete the SFA if my tuition and applicable fees are covered by the college or outside funding sources?
It's important to know that if you're receiving financial aid or other funding, there may be some charges on your account that aren't covered fully. For example, your student account might include things like library book fines or lost equipment fees. In these cases, you are responsible for those extra charges. Also, if there happens to be a balance on your account due to changes in your funding situation, you will be responsible for that amount.
What is an SFA Hold?
The SFA hold will take effect the first time you register during the year (summer – the following spring). Completion of the SFA hold will allow you to register for that quarter and future quarters during that year.
After I complete the SFA, when will the hold be lifted?
If you are completing the SFA in ctcLink, the hold will be removed immediately. If you are completing an alternative form of the SFA (electronically or via paper), the college registration office will release your hold.
Can I look at a copy of the SFA?
You will find a copy of the SFA in ctcLink self-service Tasks menu. After signing it, you will be able to go back and review it.
If I have additional questions regarding the SFA, who should I reach out to?
Please contact registration@pierce.ctc.edu if you have any questions regarding the SFA or need other help with enrollment.