All eligible LACM students will register by the deadlines set forth by the Registrar’s Office. Students register for courses in the subsequent quarter of attendance. If a student fails to register by the assigned deadline, classes may be added late with administration approvals only and student will be required to pay a late registration fee*. Students are informed by email and given updates throughout their program on their student information system (SIS) accounts. Students are advised to use the degree audit to register for courses. Students who have financial aid, billing or any other holds on their account will not be able to register and are responsible for clearing said holds prior to the start of the quarter.

*Subject to enrollment capacity and class availability.

Students that wish to add or drop a course must do so via LACM’s student information system (SIS) and adhere to the add/drop deadlines.

Week 1: Students may only add courses during Week 1. Students may drop courses without receiving a transcript record.

After the Week 1 deadline to drop a course has passed, students may withdraw from a course by submitting a LACM COURSE DROP REQUEST FORM found in the Student Information System (SIS). A withdrawn course will remain on a transcript with a grade of “W” (Withdrawn) and is not eligible for a tuition refund or a replacement course. Please note: Withdrawn courses are considered attempted
courses and, as such, may affect a student’s Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP). Withdrawn courses are not part of the student’s GPA. However, If you receive Federal Financial Aid or Veterans’ Benefits, the withdrawal from a course(s) may reduce your eligibility for aid. If you are an international student, the withdrawal from a course(s) may jeopardize your F-1 Visa status.

Upon withdrawal of courses, students will still be responsible for payment of tuition for the term in the amount prior to the withdrawal. No refunds will be issued and additional costs may apply should the withdrawal result in an extension of the student’s program beyond the original anticipated graduation date.

After Week 6, students may not withdraw from any course. A grade will be issued.

Please refer to “Tuition Refund Policy” for refund percentage. Students must inform the instructor and officially drop the course through the Office of the Registrar.

A student can submit a request to audit a course through the Academic Advisor. The Academic Advisor will seek approval from the respective Department Head. Upon approval, the student and instructor will be notified via email.  An admin fee will be applied. See Add/Drop period for registration policy.

Class Auditing Regulations:

• Students will not receive academic credit
• Permission to audit entitles the student to attend the course for observation. The student may not participate, ask questions, submit papers, or participate in any evaluation
• Students auditing courses must not cause interruptions by coming in late, leaving early, etc
• Course auditing can be revoked at any time by the instructor of the course
• A course taken for audit in one quarter may be taken for credit in a future quarter
• A course previously taken for credit and passed may be taken again for audit
• The course will be listed on your final transcript as an “AUD”
• A student cannot audit a course if it conflicts with their class schedule

Students receiving a failing grade in a required course must repeat that course and will be charged a  retake fee. Students can attempt a repeated course 3 times. After the 3rd attempt it requires the approval of the Dean of  Students.

Students who received a passing grade in a course but would like to attempt a higher grade are welcome to repeat a course.

Students on financial aid should be aware that the use of federal funds is limited. Students are responsible for tuition and fees for all repeated courses beyond federal funds limit.

Any failed private lessons need to be retaken to satisfy the degree requirements. There is a per-credit fee to retake a required private lesson.

Academic Calendar – Fall 2018 to Summer 2019

Fall Quarter 2018:
October 8 – December 21

Registration and Tuition Payment
July 30 – August 10: Registration Period (Continuing Students Only)
August 11-17 Late Registration (Continuing Students Only)
August 13 – 17 Registration Period (New Students)
August 20 Tuition Deadline (All Students)
August 27 Late Tuition Deadline (All Students)

Fall 2018 School Calendar
October 4 – 5 New Student Orientation
October 8 Quarter Begins
November 12 Veteran’s Day Observed; Campus Closed
November 22 Thanksgiving Day; Campus Closed
November 23 Campus Open; No Classes Scheduled
December 17 – 21 Exams Week
December 21 Quarter Ends
December 24 – 25 Christmas Holidays; Campus Closed
December 31 – January 1: New Year’s Holidays; Campus Closed

Winter Quarter 2019:
January 14 – March 29

Registration and Tuition Payment
October 29 – November 9: Registration Period (Continuing Students Only)
November 10-16 Late Registration (Continuing Students Only)
November 5 –16 Registration (New Students)
November 19 Tuition Deadline (All Students)
November 26 Late Tuition Deadline (All Students)

Winter 2019 School Calendar
January 10 – 11 New Student Orientation
January 14 Quarter Begins
January 21 MLK Jr. Day Observed; Campus Open/No Classes
February 15 Presidents Day Observed; Campus Open/No Classes
March 25 – 29 Exams Week
March 29 Quarter Ends
March 30 Graduation

Spring Quarter 2019:
April 8 – June 21

Registration and Tuition Payment
February 4 – 15 Registration Period (Continuing Students Only)
February 16 – 22 Late Registration (Continuing Students Only)
February 11 – 22 Registration Period (New Students)
February 25 Tuition Deadline (All Students)
March 4: Late Tuition Deadline (All Students)

Spring 2019 School Calendar
April 4 – 5 New Student Orientation
April 8 Quarter Begins
May 27 Memorial Day; Campus Closed
June 17 – 21 Exams Week
June 21 Quarter Ends

Summer Quarter 2019:
July 8 – September 20

Registration and Tuition Payment
April 29 – May 10 Registration Period (All Students Only)
May 11 – 17 Late Registration (All Students Only)
May 20 Tuition Deadline (All Students)
May 27 Tuition Deadline (All Students)

Summer 2019 School Calendar
July 4 Independence Day; Campus Closed
July 8 Summer 2019 Quarter Begins
September 2 Labor Day; Campus Closed
September 16 – 20 Exams Week
September 20 Quarter Ends

LACM defines an Academic Year as 3 quarters, 36 credits (full-time) and 33 weeks (including exam weeks).

This catalog covers Fall 2018 through Summer 2019.

All students are assigned to a specific academic year catalog at matriculation. This catalog provides you with a complete set of academic requirements required to graduate, which will not change despite any curricular changes that occur during a student’s time at LACM. However, students may opt to change to a more recent catalog year assignment if they prefer to graduate under a newer set of curricular requirements. They may not change their catalog year assignment to an earlier catalog. Should a student choose to change their catalog year they must meet with the academic advisor to obtain the appropriate paperwork as well as discuss the applicability of past coursework to the existing catalog assignment. Tuition and fees are subject to change.

Students who leave and return to LACM after one or more years will automatically be assigned to the new catalog year that is in effect at the time of their return.

Catalog Addendum Policy

This catalog represents the current policies and procedures of LACM at the time of its publication.  This catalog will be updated and/or amended as needed.  All updates and/or amendments to this catalog shall be published as an addendum during the year for which this catalog is in effect, and shall be incorporated into the catalog proper in subsequent versions of it.  All faculty, staff, and students shall be provided with copies of all addenda as they are put into effect.

All coursework at LACM is measured in quarterly academic credits. Each quarter is comprised of 10 weeks of instruction followed by 1 week of testing, for a total of 11 weeks. Courses are assigned specific credit values based on the type of course, overall coursework required and approximated study-time requirements. Courses are stylized into lectures, ensemble workshops, ensembles, labs, and private lessons. The ratio of credits to study-time outside of class equates to 1 quarter credit per 3 hours of study each week.

ACADEMIC GRADING SYSTEM

Course grades are based on a 100 point scale. The chart below converts the 100 scale to a letter grade and Grade Point Average (GPA) score.

Points Letter	Grade	Grade Points
92-100	A	4.00
90-91	A-	3.70
88-89	B+	3.30
82-87	B	3.00
80-81	B-	2.70
78-79	C+	2.30
72-77	C	2.00
70-71	C-	1.70
68-69	D+	1.30
62-67	D	1.00
60-61	D-	0.70
0-59	F	0.00

Additional Grade Letter Codes

• W – Withdraw from a course
• P – Proficiency
• AUD – Audit
• I – Incomplete
• R – Retake
• IP – In Progress

WITHDRAW “W”

The symbol “W” indicates that a student withdrew from a course during the permissible period (week’s two thru six) and has consulted with the academic advisor.

PROFICIENCY “P”

The symbol “P” indicates a student has proven proficiency in a respective course.

NO CREDIT “AUD”

The symbol “AUD” indicates a student audited a course for no credit.

INCOMPLETE POLICY “I”

An Incomplete (I) is assigned to signify temporary deferment of a regular final letter grade.

The “I” grade (Incomplete) can only be given by an instructor and Department Head. It is used sparingly in compelling situations when a student is unable to complete a course because of illness or other conditions beyond the student’s control.

The student must initiate the request for an Incomplete (I). The instructor cannot issue an Incomplete (I) without a request from the student. The student must fill out the Request for An Incomplete Form and submit it to the course instructor for approval. The form can be found in the Registrar’s Office.

To qualify for an Incomplete (I), the student must:

• Have proof of extenuating circumstances.
• Have completed a substantial portion of the coursework (e.g. only one or two assignments or final exam needs completion).
• Have a passing grade in the work completed.
• Be able to finalize the Incomplete (I) within 6 months (2 quarters) from the last day of the quarter in which the Incomplete (I) was assigned.
• Students must submit the completed form to the course instructor on or before the day of the final exam for the course. If there is no final exam, students must present the form prior to the last day of class.
• If the student fails to submit the request for an Incomplete (I) by the deadline stated, they will receive the grade that they have earned for the entire course, including work completed and penalties for work not completed.
• No retroactive Incomplete (I) is permitted.

If the request is approved, the student will be notified by the Registrar’s Office via e-mail. Students can verify their Incomplete (I) on Populi.

Students are required to read and adhere to all stipulations described on form.

If the incomplete grade is not resolved by week 2 of the subsequent quarter (unless the student is on leave) the student will be issued a failing grade (F).

If this course is a prerequisite, students must finalize the Incomplete (I) prior to the end of Week 1 of the subsequent quarter (by the Add Deadline) before students are allowed to enroll in the next level.

RETAKE “R”

The symbol “R” indicates a course has been re-taken. The “R” will appear next to the grade (not counted towards GPA)*.

IN PROGRESS “IP”

The symbol “IP” indicates a course is currently in progress.

 

PREREQUISITE AND TIERED COURSE POLICY

A prerequisite is an academic requirement that must be fulfilled before enrollment in a desired course.  The prerequisite requires a passing grade of 70%.

RECEIVING AN (F) or (W) IN A COURSE

If a student receives an (F) or (W) in a course they must repeat it to receive a passing grade.

GRADE CHANGES

Grades are considered FINAL when submitted by the faculty and can only be changed to correct an error in grading or to change an official incomplete grade to a final grade. Students cannot submit or redo work after the end of the quarter unless an official incomplete grade has been approved. Grade change forms are located in the Registrar’s Office. The deadline for changing an incorrect grade is Friday before the start of the subsequent quarter. 

Appeal process is located under “Student Conduct & Rights”.

DETERMINING GRADE POINT AVERAGE

GPA is determined by multiplying the grade points by the credit value of the course. Quarterly Grade Point Average (QGPA) is determined by dividing the total grade points earned for all courses in one quarter by the total credit values for those courses. Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) is determined by dividing the total grade points earned for all courses in every quarter of a student’s program by the total credit values for those courses. If a student repeats a required course only the grade from the repeat will be calculated into both the QGPA and CGPA.

Academic Distinctions:

Recognized at graduation and notation will appear on transcript.

Dean’s List (quarterly): Students must achieve a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) between 3.20 and 3.59.

President’s List (quarterly): Students must achieve a Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 3.6 or higher.

Responsibility for Maintaining Records: Records relating to LACM students are generated by all departments.  Some records are department-specific and the primary responsibility for maintaining those records shall remain with the Department Manager of the specific department (i.e., records relating to student financial aid).  The overall responsibility for maintaining, securing, and (when necessary) disposing of records is assigned to the Registrar.

Types of Records: LACM maintains student records in two (2) forms: physical records (paper documents) and digital records (computer files, digital images, etc.) which are created, accessed, and updated through the institution’s computer campus management system.  As of calendar year 2017, LACM has been transitioning to predominantly digital student records format.  The current anticipated completion date for complete transition to digital file format is the Fall of 2019.  As of this time, Admissions and Billing records have been completely transitioned to digital form.  Only Academic and Financial Aid files are currently maintained (partially) in physical (hard copy) form.

Student records generally, but not exclusively, exist in four (4) departmental categories:

• Admissions Records (application, required documentation for admission, communications with an applicant’s Admissions Representative, high school and college transcripts, test results, and the decision of the Admissions Department on whether to admit the applicant).
• Financial Aid Records (all records pertaining to a student’s financial aid: Title IV, state, private, or institutional forms of student financial aid).
• Academic Records (all records pertaining to a student’s studies and activities at LACM including graduation, withdrawal, transfer to another institution, readmission, transcripts, etc.).
• Billing Records (all records pertaining to any charges that a student incurs as a result of their course of studies at LACM).

Access to Student Records: Access to student records is restricted to those individuals who have a need to view the information contained in them.  Student records are covered by various state and federal privacy laws.  It is the responsibility of all employees of LACM to ensure strict adherence to those laws and to protect the privacy and confidentiality of all student records.  Overall responsibility for ensuring privacy and confidentiality of student records falls to the Registrar.  The Registrar shall ensure that all LACM employees are trained regarding the privacy and confidentiality laws, regulations, and institutional policies relating to student records.

No person or persons who do not have a need to view or otherwise examine a particular student record shall be granted access to that record.  Access to digital student records shall be controlled through compartmentalization and user/password access through the institution’s campus management computer system.  Access to physical student records shall be controlled by the Department Managers with respect to their specific records, and the Registrar shall have overall responsibility for controlling access to physical student records.  The Registrar and all Department Managers shall ensure compliance with all laws, regulations, and institutional policies regarding access to student records.

Active and Inactive Applicant Admissions Files: Records pertaining to active applicants to LACM are maintained digitally in the campus management system.  These records contain all information required of an applicant – personal as well as prior academic information that is used to make a determination regarding whether to admit the applicant as a student.  Digital Admissions files are stored in the campus management system with access restricted to those members of the LACM staff that require access for the performance of their duties.

Digital Admissions files for accepted students are archived and maintained securely in a designated computer data system indefinitely.  Digital Admissions files for those applicants who are not granted admission to LACM are archived and maintained securely in the same designated computer system for a period of one year, so that the information is available to the Admissions Department in the event that an applicant who is denied admission again seeks admission to LACM.  The same restrictions on access to an applicant’s digital Admissions file remain in effect after the applicant is no longer under consideration, has been denied admission, or has been admitted to LACM as a student.  Digital Admissions files for applicants who are not granted admission to LACM are securely and completely deleted after the one-year archiving period has expired.

Active and Inactive Student Academic Files: Records pertaining to active students are maintained digitally in the campus management system, and physically in the Office of the Registrar.  All active students at LACM shall have both a digital file in the campus management system and a physical file.  These records contain personal information on the student (identification information, contact information, etc.) and information specific to the student’s studies at LACM.  All information pertaining to a student’s studies at LACM is documented and maintained in either the student’s digital file or the student’s physical file.  The student’s physical Academic file shall remain secured in the Office of the Registrar until such time as the student becomes inactive (graduates, withdraws, transfers to another institution, etc.).  When an active student becomes inactive, the student’s physical student file shall be transferred to a secure storage area.

A student’s digital Academic file remains accessible in the campus management system indefinitely.  The same restrictions on access to an active student’s digital file remain in effect once the student becomes inactive.  LACM’s digital student records are protected through various computer safety protocols that are monitored and regularly updated by IT professionals.

No Active Student Academic files shall be removed from the Office of the Registrar without the express permission of the Registrar.  A record of any such files being removed from the Office of the Registrar shall be maintained, and it shall be the responsibility of the Registrar to ensure that the file is returned to the Office of the Registrar.

Inactive Student Academic Files: The proper personnel shall have access to stored files of inactive students.  Digital Academic files remain archived on the campus management system indefinitely so as to make the information readily available to properly authorized personnel as necessary.  Physical files of inactive students are maintained in secure storage for a period of seven years after the date that they become inactive.  After the seven-year period has expired, the student’s physical file is securely and completely destroyed.

Financial Aid Files: The Financial Aid Department maintains both digital files and physical (hard copy) files containing information pertaining to a student’s financial aid.  Physical Financial Aid files are securely stored in the Financial Aid Office, and access to them is restricted to authorized employees in the Financial Aid and Billing Departments.  Additional student data regarding Financial Aid is maintained on the necessary government databases (FAFSA, NSLDS, COD, etc.).  These databases can be accessed only by persons who possess the requisite departmental credentials which are issued by the respective agencies and not by LACM.

Institutional digital Financial Aid files are maintained indefinitely in the campus management system, with access restricted to authorized personnel in the Financial Aid and Billing Office.  Upon graduation or otherwise leaving LACM, students’ physical Financial Aid files are maintained in secure storage for a period of five years.  After the expiration of the five-year period, physical Financial Aid files are securely and completely destroyed.

Disposition and Destruction of Inactive Student Physical Files: When a student’s physical Academic and/or Financial Aid files are destroyed, they are shredded in order to make recovery of the file or revelation and inspection of the information contained therein impossible.

Student Access to Educational and Related Files: In accordance with the Federal Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA – 20 U.S.C. § 1232g; 34 CFR Part 99), both active and inactive students shall have access to their educational records.  Active students have access to information pertaining specifically to themselves through the campus management system.  Any information to which the student does not possess a need to know is not accessible through the student’s access credentials.  Upon graduation or otherwise leaving LACM, students are no longer granted full student access to the campus management computer system and their login credentials are deleted.

According to FERPA rules, active and inactive students are permitted to inspect their physical files (should they still exist) and digital files and to protest any information contained in their files that they believe to be inaccurate.  Any such protest shall be investigated immediately and if the information in question is found to be in error, then that information shall be removed from the file.  If the information is found not to be in error, the information shall be retained in the file.  All student protests of information contained in any of their files shall be documented and included in that file, regardless of the disposition of the protest.

FERPA Disclosure of Information in a Student’s Files: Strict adherence to FERPA regulations shall be exercised by all employees of LACM at all times.  All students are advised of FERPA rules upon being granted admission to LACM.  All students are provided with a FERPA Authorization Form in order to list any person or persons that the student decides shall have access to his or her student files.  No person who is not listed on a student’s FERPA Authorization Form – other than an employee of LACM with a need to view the information – shall be permitted to inspect a student’s files or to view the information contained in those files, except as required by law and under the required conditions and restrictions.  No information or documentation that is required to be disclosed to a student under FERPA regulations shall be withheld from a student.

In the event that information from a student’s files is disclosed according to FERPA regulations, the student in question shall be notified of that disclosure as soon as is possible, unless such notification is not permitted according to FERPA guidelines.  All disclosures of information from a student’s file that are made to a person or persons other than the student or an individual authorized by the student to receive such information shall be recorded and maintained in a separate FERPA Disclosure file.  This FERPA Disclosure file shall be maintained in the Office of the Registrar, with access to it restricted to senior administrative staff of LACM.

Unauthorized Data Breach of Student Files: LACM employs a number of security measures and protocols to protect all information maintained in its physical and digital records.  The specifics of these security measures and protocols are kept confidential in order to prevent them from being compromised.  In the event of an unauthorized data breach of the institution’s computer campus management system, the institution shall notify all affected parties as soon as the unauthorized breach is discovered and the affected persons are identified.  All affected persons shall be kept informed of the progress of the resulting investigation into the breach.  In addition, the proper authorities shall be notified as soon as the unauthorized data breach is discovered.

Compliance with Policy: All employees of LACM shall comply with this policy.  The overall responsibility for ensuring compliance with this policy shall be assigned to the Registrar.  All department heads shall have responsibility for ensuring that the personnel in their respective departments comply with this policy.  Any violations of this policy shall be documented and reported to the Registrar, who shall immediately notify the necessary senior institutional officials and initiate an investigation into the unauthorized data access.

The Registrar shall be responsible for ensuring that all LACM employees are properly trained in FERPA regulations, as well as providing them with any updated or otherwise relevant information with respect to the maintenance and confidentiality of student files and records.

GDPR

The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a set of standards for organizations that process personal information for individuals residing in the European Union (EU). GDPR took effect May 25, 2018 and affects organizations worldwide, including colleges.

If you are a citizen or currently residing in the EU, GDPR standards protect you and your data.

For further information about Los Angeles College of Music’s data use, please email:  support@lacm.edu

Please note: The “Right to be Forgotten” is not universal. It only applies to EU residents and non-EU citizens living in an EU member state. Units that collect personal information do not need consent for all collection and use. Contractural obligations and legitimate business interests do not require consent under GDPR

All students are assigned to a specific academic year catalog at matriculation. This catalog provides the student with a complete set of academic requirements required to graduate, which will not change despite any curricular changes that occur during a student’s time at LACM. However, students may opt to change to a more recent catalog year assignment if they prefer to graduate under a newer set of curricular requirements. They may not change their catalog year assignment to an earlier catalog. Should a student choose to change their catalog year they must meet with the academic advisor to obtain the appropriate paperwork as well as discuss the applicability of past coursework to the existing catalog assignment. Tuition and fees are subject to change.

Students who leave and return to LACM after one or more years will automatically be assigned to the new catalog year that is in effect at the time of their return.

Elective Policy

Full-time students (12-20 credits) may take electives at no additional fee with the exception of elective private lessons. Any credits above 20 per quarter will be charged on a per-credit basis. Students who are not full-time will be charged for electives on a per-credit basis.

Elective Private Lessons (a private lesson not required by the students’ degree) will be charged on a per-credit basis regardless of the student’s full-time/part-time registration status. Required private lessons do not carry a per credit fee unless they are retaken. Please see the retake policy.

Some programs require a number of elective credits. To meet these elective credit requirements, a student must add one or more courses that are not required by their degree program. The total of elective credits earned must meet or exceed the elective credits required by the student’s degree program in order to graduate. Students can check their degree requirements on the school’s SIS (student information system) or by contacting their Academic Advisor.

A student can enroll in an elective if:

• Students have met all required prerequisites for the course
• There are no scheduling conflicts
• Class size allows for additional students – Lab fees will apply

Prerequisites Courses

Prerequisites are courses that must be taken before enrolling in a higher level course. Each prerequisite designation is listed in the course description. Students must earn a final grade of 70% or higher to pass a prerequisite course and be eligible to matriculate into the higher level course.

Corequisite Courses

A corequisite is a course that must be taken simultaneously with a designated course. Students are notified of a course corequsite during the registration process. Students must earn a grade higher than 60% to pass the course. If a student fails one corequisite but passes the other, they are required to retake the failed course but not the passed corequisite. See the Academic Advisor for guidance.

Change of Program

Students are required to declare a program at the time of application. LACM defines ‘program’ as the combination of a student’s declared degree level and major. Students are welcome to change their program by changing either their degree level or major. Those seeking a change of program must visit the Office of Academic Advising and consult with an Academic Advisor.

Change of Major

A Change of Major has implications such as but not limited to; delay in graduation, additional tuition, fees, and other costs, etc. Students on financial aid (including Veterans Affairs) must also meet with the Financial Aid Department. Students applying for a change of major apply via Admissions Office for the new major. Once accepted into the new major, students will need to meet again with the Academic Advisor to create a new Academic Plan.

Change of Degree

A Change of Degree has implications such as but not limited to; delay in graduation, additional tuition, fees, and other costs. Students on financial aid (including Veterans Affairs) must also meet with the Financial Aid Department to understand the impacts on their financial aid. Students approved for a change of degree must meet again with the Academic Advisor to create a new Academic Plan.

CHANGE OF STUDENT STATUS POLICIES

The Office of Academic Advising facilitates requests for change of status and can assist students that have questions about this process.

Student Status

The standard status for students enrolled at LACM is full-time.  A full-time student is defined as a student who is currently enrolled in a course of study consisting of 12 to 20 quarter credit units per quarter. 

Greater than Full-Time Status

In certain circumstances, students will seek to enroll in a greater than full-time status.  Department Head approval must be obtained prior to a student moving into a greater than full-time status.  Approval shall be granted only on a case-by-case basis, after a careful review of the student’s reason for the requested status change, academic progress, and performance to date.  The decision of the Department Head is final and cannot be appealed.

Students seeking to enroll in a greater than full-time status are required to meet with an Academic Advisor prior to formally applying for a status change in order to discuss the impact that such an increased course load might have on their studies and on their overall academic performance.  All requirements for maintaining attendance and satisfactory academic performance (SAP) shall remain in effect for a student whose status is greater than full-time.

Students who are granted permission to enroll at a greater than full-time status must be aware that all units over twenty per quarter will carry a per-credit charge over and above the student’s normal tuition costs.   Students must also be aware that increasing a course load to a point greater than full-time status will not increase the rate at which student financial aid is disbursed, so the increased cost may be borne by the student until such time as the student’s financial aid is regularly disbursed.

Less than Full-Time Status

Less than full-time status is defined as being enrolled in courses of study less than 12 quarter credit units per quarter.  Students are not allowed to enroll in less than full-time status. Any exceptions due to extenuating circumstances must be approved by administration and the student must meet with the Financial Aid and Billing Office. Please see your Academic Advisor for more information.

Students seeking to enroll in a less-than full-time status are required to meet with an Academic Advisor prior to formally applying for a status change in order to discuss the impact that such a status change might have on their academic performance, the probability of graduating past the 150% of time requirement, and their probability of successfully completing their program of studies. 

Students who are granted permission to enroll at a less than full-time status must be aware that their reduced enrollment status might adversely affect their eligibility for various forms of student financial aid, including Title IV FSA and VA Benefits. Additionally, students will no longer qualify for Institutional Aid. Furthermore, all requirements for maintaining attendance and satisfactory academic performance (SAP) shall remain in effect for a student whose status is less than full-time.  A less than full-time status does not lessen the degree of academic rigor in a program of study.

Students must also be aware that dropping below a specified number of units per quarter may adversely affect their eligibility to reside in the LACM off-campus housing units.

International Students Dropping Below Full-Time Status

International students studying on an F1 or M1 student visa are required to maintain a full-time enrollment status throughout their program of study.  Failure to do so will result in the student being out of status and will jeopardize the student’s visa.  In addition, dropping below full-time status will extend the student’s anticipated completion date beyond the original anticipated completion date, which may also result in the international student being out of status.  In cases of very specific exigent circumstances, an international student may apply for and be granted approval for a temporary reduction from full-time status.  These specific exemptions involve certain academic difficulties or medical impairments, and they must be reported in a timely manner in order for the request for change of status to be approved.  Details regarding these exemptions are available from the college’s International Student Coordinator’s Office.

SATISFACTORY ACADEMIC PROGRESS (SAP) FOR ENROLLMENT 

Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards ensure that you are successfully completing your coursework and can continue to receive financial aid. All students receiving financial aid are required to meet SAP standards.

Students must maintain Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) to remain enrolled at Los Angeles College of Music. SAP is determined by:

• Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA): Students must maintain a minimum CGPA of 2.0 throughout their enrollment. CPGA is reviewed at the end of each quarter.
• Incremental Completion Rate (ICR) of 67%: Students must stay on pace. ICR is calculated by dividing the total attempted credits by the total earned credits. Your ICR must be above 67% in order to maintain SAP.
• Maximum Time Frame (150%): Students must complete all graduation requirements within 150% of the length of the degree or diploma, e.g., complete the 90 credit degree within 135 attempted credits.

FAILURE TO MEET SAP STANDARDS

For Full-Time Enrollment: In order to remain in their program, full-time students at LACM must demonstrate “Satisfactory Academic Progress” (SAP) which is a function of the following components:

• Achieve the minimum Incremental Completion Rate of 67%: Incremental Completion Rate (ICR) is calculated by dividing the total credits a student completed per quarter by the number of credits attempted per quarter. When this calculation falls below 67%, a student is no longer on pace to graduate on time and is ineligible to receive financial aid.
• Meet the minimum 2.0 Cumulative GPA Requirement
• Complete the program within the maximum allowable time frame

Diploma (60 credits): within 6 quarters

Associate (90 credits): within 9 quarters

Bachelor’s (180 credits): within 18 quarters

*LACM reserves the right to modify the Satisfactory Academic Progress policy at any time.

For Part-Time Enrollment:  In order to remain in their program, part-time students at LACM must demonstrate “Satisfactory Academic Progress” (SAP) which is a function of the following components:

Achieve the minimum Incremental Completion Rate of 67%: Incremental Completion Rate (ICR) is calculated by dividing the total credits a student completed per quarter by the number of credits attempted per quarter. When this calculation falls below 67%, a student is no longer on pace to graduate on time and is ineligible to receive financial aid.

• Meet the minimum 2.0 Cumulative GPA Requirement.
• Complete the program within the maximum allowable timeframe.

Diploma (60 credits): within 10 quarters

Associate (90 credits): within 15 quarters

Bachelor’s (180 credits): within 30 quarters

*LACM reserves the right to modify the Satisfactory Academic Progress policy at any time.

SAP and Financial Aid Eligibility

Per federal regulations, financial aid recipients are required to maintain SAP toward their degree or diploma program in order to maintain financial aid eligibility.

ACADEMIC STANDINGS & CONDITIONS

Students must conform to the following three conditions in order to demonstrate Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP):

• Maintain an incremental completion rate (ICR) of 67% or higher;
• Earn a cumulative grade point average of 2.0 or higher; and
• Complete your program within 150% of your program length.

**Please note students who fail to maintain satisfactory academic standing and are receiving financial aid are at risk of losing funding**

Academic Warning, Probation, Probation Extension and Dismissal

All students must maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher. Students will be placed on academic probation when their cumulative GPA drops below 2.0 and/or their ICR falls below 67%. Students will be removed from academic probation when their cumulative GPA returns to 2.0 or higher and/or their ICR is at 67% or higher.

Academic Warning

Any student who fails to earn a quarter GPA of 2.0 or higher for any one quarter but has a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher receives the statement “academic warning” on the respective quarter academic record. Students placed on academic warning will have a lock on their registration and must see the academic advisor to create an academic plan and remove the lock.

Academic Probation

Any student who fails to achieve and maintain the minimum cumulative GPA and/or ICR is placed on academic probation. Additionally, any student with two consecutive quarter GPA’s below a 2.0 will be placed on academic probation. The statement, “academic probation,” is placed on the student’s academic record. A student on academic probation is required to consult with the Academic Advisor and develop an academic plan suited for success. Students have one quarter to meet the minimum cumulative GPA/ICR requirements to remove the probation status. 

Academic Probation- Extension

Students will be placed on extended probation after one quarter on academic probation if their quarter GPA is 3.0 or higher but their cumulative GPA remains below 2.0. They may remain on extended probation while maintaining a term GPA of 3.0 or higher until their cumulative GPA is raised to 2.0 or higher. A student who is receiving financial aid may be at risk of losing their funding. Student must see financial aid office for more information.

Academic Dismissal

A student who does not maintain the minimum cumulative GPA and/or ICR at the conclusion of the quarter of academic probation reinstatement and/or academic probation extension will be academically dismissed. Students placed on academic dismissal are eligible for a one time appeal and, if approved, will be placed on academic probation extension status. If the appeal is denied, the student will be dismissed and can apply for readmission after one year since the last date of attendance. Students who are readmitted will automatically be placed on academic probation extension. All academic dismissal actions are considered final on the Friday before the start of the next quarter. Grade changes that occur after the Friday before the start of the next quarter may alter the academic suspension or academic dismissal action for that quarter.

All academic probation and academic dismissal actions are permanently noted on the student’s transcript. Students on academic probation or probation extension cannot receive an incomplete grade in any of their courses.

**Addendum 06.26.2019: Section on Academic Suspension removed.

GRADUATION POLICIES

Note: Policy and Procedure for Graduation Ceremony are noted separate from Graduation from LACM.

To qualify for graduation, each student must:

• Submit the LACM Petition to Graduate Form the 3 quarters prior to completion
• Receive a passing grade in all required core curriculum in the enrolled program
• Earn all minimum required credits for the enrolled program
• Achieve a CGPA of 2.0 or higher
• Finalize all finances and additional responsibilities with LACM
• Complete academic advising exit counseling
• If applicable, complete Financial Aid exit counseling

LACM’s Graduation Ceremony is offered to all students scheduled to complete their program within 3 quarters. Students with remaining program requirements cannot participate unless they enroll in program completion by the quarterly registration deadline.

GRADUATING WITH HONORS

Bachelor Degree recipients who have a 3.5 Cumulative GPA are awarded honors upon graduation. The designations of GPA are:

Designation                         GPA Range

Cum Laude                               3.50 to 3.74

Magna Cum Laude                 3.75 to 3.89

Summa Cum Laude               3.90 and above

A Leave of Absence (LOA) is a temporary break in studies for medical or extenuating circumstances only. To qualify for a Leave of Absence students must be in good academic and financial standing with LACM and have successfully completed one full academic year (three quarters). Students may request a leave of absence for up to two consecutive academic terms (quarters), not to exceed five consecutive calendar months. Students must receive approval from the LACM Administration. Students are limited to a maximum of one LOA per two consecutive academic years.

Should a student need to temporarily suspend their studies while ineligible to request an LOA, the student will need to withdraw (withdrawn students have one calendar year to apply for readmission).

Students approved for a leave of absence during the Add/Drop period (week one of the quarter) will have all in-progress courses removed from their transcript.  Students approved for a leave of absence during any other time during the quarter will be assigned “W” notations for all in-progress courses. Students returning from LOA will enter at the beginning of quarter as indicated in their LOA Request Form. Students who do not return as expected on the date indicated by the LOA Request Form will be withdrawn from the college and subject to the terms of the Withdrawal Policy. While a student is on LOA, their Student ID Card will be deactivated and they will not be able to use campus facilities. Students on LOA are welcome on campus for public events, or as the guest to a current student.

Students intending to take a Leave of Absence must first meet with their Academic Advisor before completing and submitting an LOA Request Form. To apply for a leave of absence, students must complete the LOA Request Form and provide adequate documentation at the time of requesting a leave. Approval of the leave is at the discretion of the Administration. LOA Requests submitted with inadequate or ambiguous documentation will be denied. Upon receiving an LOA Request for a leave, the Office of the Registrar will provide a decision to approve or deny the LOA in writing by student LACM email.

Withdrawal Policy

Students have the right to withdraw from LACM at any time by providing written notice using LACM’s Withdrawal Form which can be obtained from the Office of Academic Advising. Grades of W (withdrawal) are recorded on the student’s academic transcript for each in-progress course if the withdrawal notice is submitted through Week 6. Any withdrawal notice submitted after Week 6 will result in final grades based upon all in-progress grades at the time of submission, combined with zeros for any assignments, exams, performances, attendance, or other grades after the date the withdrawal form is submitted. The student will be sent an official letter via LACM student email from the Office of the Registrar which notifies the student the withdrawal has been processed.

Withdrawn students will have their ID card deactivated and will be unable to use LACM facilities. Withdrawn students are welcome to any LACM events which are open to the public or as a guest to a currently enrolled student under the Visitor Policy.

Administrative Withdrawal

Should a student drop all registered courses within the drop period (up through Week 6 of the quarter), the student will be administratively withdrawn from LACM and subject to terms of the Withdrawal Policy.

Students are required to attend all classes for which they are scheduled.  Due to the varying aspects of student assessment, instructors may have varying attendance policies. Each course will have a specific attendance policy notated in the course syllabus. All faculty will take attendance at the start of each class, and the information shall be entered into the student information system each week.  Any student who is tardy or absent shall be so marked. If a student is more than 15 minutes late for a private lesson the instructor may then cancel the lesson, record the student as absent for that day, and is under no obligation to reschedule the lesson.  Students are responsible for obtaining, completing, and submitting on-time all assignments given to the class in the event that they are absent. Also see: exam retake fee policy.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance that prevents a student from attending a scheduled class session or forces the student to arrive late (contagious illness, death in the family, accidents, emergencies, etc.) the absence or tardiness may be determined to be excused.  The instructor shall determine if the student’s absence shall be recorded as an excused absence or as an unexcused absence. Students are responsible for notifying the instructor via lacm.edu e-mail of any expected absence or tardiness prior to the start of class. Excessive absences and/or tardiness are highly disruptive and have a negative effect on the learning experience of the other students in that class.  Excessive absences, tardiness, or early departure from class shall not be tolerated and can have a detrimental effect on the student’s grade and progress for that class. Excused absences shall not exceed 10% of the class total.

MAKE-UP EXAMS

Only extenuating circumstances such as personal health problems, death of a family member, or other serious circumstances with proof of the applicable circumstance will allow for make-up exams. It is the student’s responsibility to make sure all exam dates are adhered to and necessary action is taken and documentation is provided. Students are expected to remain on campus for the entirety of the quarter, which includes finals week. Your final exams may or may not be scheduled on the same day and time as your regularly scheduled classes. Please plan accordingly.

A rescheduling fee may apply and students should note that additional fees may occur and will vary depending on the class.

Standards for Student Achievement

Student Achievement measures the amount of learning a student completes in a specific amount of time. LACM monitors student achievement in several meaningful ways. Each degree and major have expected student learning outcomes that are uniquely designed to ensure all necessary core competencies are represented and appropriately supported throughout the entire curricula. Students are assessed each quarter in the form of written tests, performances (concerts and showcases), jury exams, recitals and project work. It is critical for there to be proof that students are meeting LACM’s expected learning outcomes.  To that end, each student is provided an ePortfolio that resides in LACM’s Learning Management System (LMS). As determined by the major Department Head, video of each student’s performances, project works and tests are inserted throughout their program and act as proof all outcomes are being met.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition and fees are subject to change without notice. Mandatory fees for each student are non-refundable.

ESTIMATED COST OF ATTENDANCE

The Cost of Attendance Budget Chart reflects estimated enrollment costs per Quarter.

2018-2019 AVERAGE COST OF ATTENDANCE BUDGET PER QUARTER

**Tuition Addendum: Reflects tuition rate for all Winter 2019, Spring 2019 and Summer 2019 Quarter start students**

	Dependent Students	Independent Students
Tuition	$ 7,901.25 $ 8,150.00**	$ 7,901.25 $ 8,150.00**
Student Activity Fee	$ 200.00	$ 200.00
Student Technology Fee**	$ 200.00**	$ 200.00**
Estimate
Books & Supplies	$ 300.00	$ 300.00
Room & Board	$ 1,806.00	$ 4,596.00
Transportation	$ 369.00	$ 417.00
Personal	$ 1086.00	$ 999.00
Total	$11,662.25 $12,111.00**	$14,413.25 $14,862.00**

2017-2018 AVERAGE COST OF ATTENDANCE BUDGET PER QUARTER

	Dependent Students	Independent Students
Tuition	$ 7,901.25	$ 7,901.25
Student Activity Fee	$ 200.00	$ 200.00
Estimate
Books & Supplies	$ 300.00	$ 300.00
Room & Board	$1,749.00	$4,437.00
Transportation	$ 366.00	$ 411.00
Personal	$1,092.00	$1,002.00
Total	$11,608.25	$14,251.25

The Financial Aid Department at LACM assists eligible students in finding appropriate funding to meet their educational goal. The Financial Aid Administrator will simplify the process of identifying and applying for grants, loans and work-study funds, helping students along the path through college.

Financial aid is not intended to replace the financial responsibility of the student; rather, it is intended to supplement what the family can provide. Students are required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) each year they are seeking financial aid. The information provided is used to create an analysis of each student’s financial ability to contribute toward his or her educational costs. Students may complete the FAFSA application via the Internet at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Please contact 1-800-4FED-AID (800-433-3243) if you have FAFSA submission questions. Students are required to inform LACM Financial Aid Office of all financial assistance (including scholarships) they receive.

LACM participates in federal financial aid programs. Regardless of source, the college encourages students to make every effort to minimize their reliance on student loans, as those loans will ultimately require repayment. Financial aid is available to those who qualify.

Application Process

Prospective students are strongly encouraged to complete the financial aid process as soon as possible All Required documents must be submitted on a timely basis. Federal financial aid applicants must meet the following criteria:

• U.S. Citizenship or eligible non-citizen status
• Valid Social Security number
• Registration with the Selective Service
• Not in default on any federal educational loan
• No outstanding repayment due on a federal educational grant

If selective service registration is required, students must be registered to receive financial aid. Supporting documentation may be required.

Applicants to LACM will receive an initial financial aid packet during their financial aid overview. This packet includes pertinent forms related to the financial aid application process.

Financial aid applications will be processed in the order received. Submitting the application by LACM’s stated deadlines is essential to have timely processing. Only complete files containing the required documentation will be processed. A financial aid file is complete only after the following documents and information have been received:

• Confirmation of Admission status in an eligible program.
• A valid FAFSA containing LACM’s federal school code 038684 (LA Music Academy).
• Any other documentation requested by the Financial Aid Office required for completion of the verification process. Financial aid awards are for one academic year and it is the responsibility of the student to re-apply each year if additional aid is needed.

Supporting documentation may be required to complete the financial aid application, including, but not limited to:

• U.S. IRS Federal Tax Transcripts (if required to file a tax return) and/or W-2 forms
• * Verification worksheet
• * Statements from any agencies from whom the applicant has received benefits

Federal regulations prohibit offers of financial aid to any individual who under IRS regulations is delinquent in filing a federal tax return. If a tax return has not yet been filed but is not delinquent, estimates may be used when applying. However, it is the student /parent responsibility to make sure they file on a timely manner.

Eligibility Criteria

Financial need is determined by applying a formula to the information provided in the student’s FAFSA. The formula determines the Expected Family Contribution (EFC). The EFC is the amount of money the applicant and family are expected to be able to contribute toward the applicant’s educational expenses and is used to determine the amount of federal student aid the applicant may obtain. LACM’s Financial Aid Administrator will calculate financial need, using the following formula:

• FINANCIAL NEED = COA – EFC – FPG – OTHER
• COA = Cost of Attendance
• EFC = Expected Family Contribution
• FPG = Federal Pell Grant (if eligible)
• OTHER = All Other Aid/Resources

The Expected Family Contribution (EFC) is a projection of funds determined to be available for the cost of attendance and other financial obligations.

Eligibility is determined one award year at a time. Students should renew their FAFSA applications annually as soon as possible after October 1st.

Federal Aid Programs: The following is a brief description of each Federal Aid program. Full descriptions are provided in the booklet, “The Student Guide” published by the Department of Education. These booklets are available from the Student Finance Department. Grants are funds that do not need to be repaid. Loans are borrowed money that must be repaid with interest.

Federal Pell Grant: These funds are awarded to eligible undergraduate students who have not yet earned a bachelor’s degree to help pay for their education. The award for full-time enrollment in the 2018/19 academic year is approximately $6,095, and 2017/18 academic year is approximately $5,920. These are grants that do not need to be repaid. Not all students will qualify, but all are encouraged to apply for the Federal Pell Grant.

Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (SEOG): This grant is also awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional need. Federal SEOG funds are very limited as the federal government gives the college a set amount of money to use each year based on the federal budget.

Federal Work-Study (FWS): The FWS program provides funds for part-time jobs, which allow students to earn money needed to pay for educational expenses. FWS awards are a form of federal financial aid. In order to be eligible, students must have completed a current FAFSA, have remaining “unmet need”, be a permanent resident or U.S. citizen, be in good academic standing and be enrolled at least half-time. Currently, all available positions are on campus. Students are encouraged to find positions that provide work experience in their field of study or provide valuable service to the community. The student’s salary is funded by the federal budget, with the college contributing a percentage of matching funds.

Federal Direct Loan–Subsidized: This program is available to students with financial need. The loan is financed by the U.S. Department of Education. This “subsidized” loan accrues interest, but the federal government pays all of the interest on the student’s behalf while he or she is in school. This loan program allows a student to borrow up to $3,500 during the first academic year, $4,500 during the second academic year, and $5,500 in the third, fourth, and fifth academic years of undergraduate study. The interest rate for the in-school period in 2018/19 is 5.5%. The subsidized loan has a fixed rate set by July 1st of the year. The loan is subject to origination fees and the interest begins to accrue as soon as the loan has been disbursed from the lender.

Federal Direct Loan–Unsubsidized: This loan program is available for all eligible students, regardless of income or assets. The loan is financed by the U.S. Department of Education. This loan accrues interest while the student is attending school. Students may choose to defer payment of the interest until six months after leaving school. In addition to borrowing from the subsidized Stafford loan, an independent student may borrow up to an additional $6,000 per academic year. The interest rate for the in-school period in 2018/19 is 5.5%, and may change annually. The loan is subject to origination fees.

Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students (PLUS): The PLUS loan is available to parents of dependent students as a supplemental source of funds to be used toward their child’s educational expenses. Parent borrowers begin repayment within 60 days after the loan is issued. However, parents may request a deferment while your child is enrolled at least half-time and for an additional six months after your child graduates, leaves school, or drops below half-time enrollment. You don’t have to make any payments while your loan is deferred. The 2018/19 interest rate is 7.6%, and may change annually. The lender obtains a credit report in order to determine eligibility for this loan. Should the parent be denied a PLUS loan, the Student Financial Aid Department may be able to assist the student in obtaining an Unsubsidized Stafford Loan by using the denial letter as documentation of need.

Verification: LACM is required by The General Provision regulations to verify all applicants selected for verification by the Central Processing System (CPS). The Financial Aid Administrator may choose to verify any applicant if he or she has reason to believe that the information provided is inconsistent. All conflicting information must be resolved before any funds are disbursed. The Verification requirements are applicable to all financial aid recipients under the following Student Financial Assistance Programs:

 

• Federal Pell Grant Program

• Federal Direct Student Loan Program

• Federal SEOG

• Federal Work Study (FWS)

 

If an applicant is selected for verification, the Financial Aid Administrator will notify the student immediately. The Financial Aid Administrator will email a notification letter or notify the student by phone. The applicant must submit all documents requested on or before the due date specified by the Financial Aid Administrator. The processing of the student’s federal aid will be delayed and temporary hold of registration from the program if the requested documents are not received with the specified time frame.

The verification is completed when the verification process shows that all of the student’s verifiable information reported on the FAFSA is correct, and there are no outstanding issues or conflicting information in the file. If there are any changes that would affect the student’s eligibility as a result of the verification, then the Financial Aid Administrator will notify the student in writing or by phone that he or she is required to sign a revised Award Notification.

Verification Deadlines: The following deadlines, regulated by the U.S. Department of Education, will be followed at LACM. If Verification documents are not provided as soon as possible but no later than the end of the quarter/ term in attendance, the student may become cash paying student and tuition may be due immediately.

Veterans’ Benefits:

LACM is approved by the California State Approving Agency for Veterans Education (CSAAVE) to enroll veterans and eligible persons for education benefits. Students who believe they qualify for veterans’ educational benefits should contact the College School Certifying Official Veteran Coordinator at 626-568-8850, veterans@lacm.edu.

The Veteran Coordinator at LACM will provide certification of enrollment services for veterans and will serve as a direct liaison between LACM and the Veterans’ Administration regarding underpayment, overpayment or non-payment of VA educational benefits. All Veterans, including those on active duty, should call the Department of Veterans Affairs at (888) 442-4551 to obtain the appropriate application for benefits (such as letter of eligibility). Information and forms are also available online at www.gibill.va.gov.

Any student receiving GI Bill® benefits while attending LACM is required to obtain transcripts from all previously attended school and submit them to LACM ‘s Registrar Office for review prior to credit.

LACM is proud to collaborate with the Veteran’s Administration to provide VA Yellow Ribbon benefits to qualified students. Students who are eligible to receive VA benefits under the post-9/11 GI Bill® may be considered to receive additional funds from LACM under this program.

Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces applying to LACM, who are not the Post 9/11 GI Bill®, must make arrangements to pay tuition through means other than veterans (VA) benefits (e.g., cash or financial aid). Students receiving Post 9/11 benefits (Chapter 33) will have any eligible tuition payments paid directly to the school. All housing allowances (BAH) will be paid directly to the student. Students receiving other forms of VA benefits (Chapters 30, 35, 1606 /1607) will receive their monthly benefit directly from the Department of Veteran Affairs. LACM will guide veterans through the application process, but cannot determine eligibility, and accepts no responsibility for payments made directly to students. Please contact the Veterans Benefits Coordinator for any additional questions.

LACM Scholarship and Need Based Grant Program

LACM is proud to offer scholarships and Need Based Grants to qualifying applicants. Scholarships and Need Based Grants are designed to supplement, but not replace, federal financial aid. Awards are credited directly to the financial accounts of recipients. The number of scholarships and grants disbursed depends upon the availability of allocated funds. LACM tries to provide as many scholarships and grants opportunities as possible. Students should contact Financial Aid Department for additional information or questions regarding the LACM Need Based Grant.

Scholarships and Grants require full time status for the complete duration of the quarter. If a student withdraws from LACM for any reason mid quarter, tuition will be owed on a prorated basis without scholarships or grants awarded. After week 6, tuition is owed in full with no scholarship or grant application. Federal Financial Aid awarded for the quarter may also be adjusted. Please contact the Financial Aid office to see how withdrawing will affect your Federal Financial Aid.

Private Grants and Scholarships

Students should consider applying for outside scholarships and grants offered by private and public agencies around the country. Information on grants and scholarships can be obtained at public or collegiate libraries. There are several excellent research sites on the Internet, such as www.salliemae.com under the “College Planning” tab, www.finaid.org and www.fastweb.com. In addition, LACM cautions students to avoid any scholarship research service that promises to locate sources for a fee.

Notice to Recipients of Federal Grants and Loans

The Higher Education Amendment of 1998 requires continued eligibility for federal grants and loans to be based on a student’s satisfactory academic progress and successful completion of the studied program. If a student withdraws from school, the amount of financial aid available to pay expenses will be prorated based on the amount of time spent in attendance) If the student has completed 60% or less of the quarter). LACM must return excess funds to Title IV programs in the sequence required by the U. S. Department of Education. Students should be aware of the remaining responsibility for all appropriate charges not covered by Federal Student Aid due to withdrawal.

Satisfactory Academic Progress

As per federal regulations and institutional policies, financial aid recipients must meet all Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP) standards as set by the college in order to continue to receive financial aid.

VA policy requires that VA benefits be terminated if a student fails to maintain satisfactory academic progress for two consecutive terms.

The US Department of Education conducts database matches to determine whether a student meets certain eligibility criteria for financial aid. The result of these matches will appear on your Student Aid Report (SAR). These include matches with: Selective Service, National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS), US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), and Social Security Administration (SSA). LACM will only disburse financial aid if a student successfully passes all database matches. If there is a failure of any database matches, LACM cannot disburse ANY type of financial aid until the status from these matches has been confirmed and resolved. Failure to resolve any conflicting database matches during the federally required time frame will result in cancellation of estimated financial aid awards.

Refund Policy (Financial Aid Recipients)

LACM has established a refund policy for all students who find it necessary to withdraw from the college. Students who elect to withdraw or take a leave of absence during the academic year must submit prior written notification according to the procedure specified in this Catalog. Any questions concerning LACM’s refund policy should be directed to the Financial Aid Office.

Determination Date

General Requirements

Federal Student Aid funds are awarded to a student under the assumption the student will attend school for the entire period for which the assistance is awarded. When a student withdraws, the student may no longer be eligible for the full amount of Title IV funds the student was originally scheduled to receive. If a recipient of Federal Student Aid loan funds withdraws from school after beginning attendance, the amount of Federal Student Aid loan assistance earned by the student must be determined. If the amount disbursed to the student is greater than the amount the student earned, unearned funds must be returned. If the amount disbursed to the student is less than the amount the student earned, and for which the student is otherwise eligible, he or she is eligible to receive a post-withdrawal disbursement for the earned aid that was not received.

 

Return of Funds by the School: Order of Return of Title IV Funds

A school must return Title IV funds to the programs from which the student received aid during the payment period or period of enrollment as applicable, in the following order, up to the net amount disbursed from each source:

• Unsubsidized Direct Stafford loans
• Subsidized Direct Stafford Loans
• Direct PLUS loans
• Pell Grant
• FSEOG

Time Frame for the Return of Title IV Funds

A school is required to return unearned funds for which it is responsible as soon as possible, but no later than forty-five days from the determination of a student’s withdrawal.

ADD/DROP Classes

After the Week 1 deadline to drop a course has passed, students may withdraw from a course by submitting a LACM COURSE DROP REQUEST FORM found in the Student Information System (SIS). A withdrawn course will remain on a transcript with a grade of “W” (Withdrawn) and is not eligible for a tuition refund or a replacement course. For details, see the ADD/DROP section of Registrar Policies.

The State of California established the Student Tuition Recovery Fund (STRF) to relieve or mitigate economic loss suffered by a student in an educational program at a qualifying institution, who is or was a California resident while enrolled, or was enrolled in a residency program, if the student enrolled in the institution, prepaid tuition, and suffered an economic loss. Unless relieved of the obligation to do so, you must pay the state-imposed assessment for the STRF, or it must be paid on your behalf, if you are a student in an educational program, who is a California resident, or are enrolled in a residency program, and prepay all or part of your tuition.

You are not eligible for protection from the STRF and you are not required to pay the STRF assessment, if you are not a California resident, or are not enrolled in a residency program.”

It is important that you keep copies of your enrollment agreement, financial aid documents, receipts, or any other information that documents the amount paid to the school. Questions regarding the STRF may be directed to the Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education, 2535 Capitol Oaks Drive, Suite 400, Sacramento, CA 95833, (916) 431-6959 or (888) 370-7589.

To be eligible for STRF, you must be a California resident or are enrolled in a residency program, prepaid tuition, paid or deemed to have paid the STRF assessment, and suffered an economic loss as a result of any of the following:

1. The institution, a location of the institution, or an educational program offered by the institution was closed or discontinued, and you did not choose to participate in a teach-out plan approved by the Bureau or did not complete a chosen teach-out plan approved by the Bureau.
2. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution within the 120 day period before the closure of the institution or location of the institution, or were enrolled in an educational program within the 120 day period before the program was discontinued.
3. You were enrolled at an institution or a location of the institution more than 120 days before the closure of the institution or location of the institution, in an educational program offered by the institution as to which the Bureau determined there was a significant decline in the quality or value of the program more than 120 days before closure.
4. The institution has been ordered to pay a refund by the Bureau but has failed to do so.
5. The institution has failed to pay or reimburse loan proceeds under a federal student loan program as required by law, or has failed to pay or reimburse proceeds received by the institution in excess of tuition and other costs.
6. You have been awarded restitution, a refund, or other monetary award by an arbitrator or court, based on a violation of this chapter by an institution or representative of an institution, but have been unable to collect the award from the institution.
7. You sought legal counsel that resulted in the cancellation of one or more of your student loans and have an invoice for services rendered and evidence of the cancellation of the student loan or loans.

To qualify for STRF reimbursement, the application must be received within four (4) years from the date of the action or event that made the student eligible for recovery from STRF.

A student whose loan is revived by a loan holder or debt collector after a period of noncollection may, at any time, file a written application for recovery from STRF for the debt that would have otherwise been eligible for recovery. If it has been more than four (4) years since the action or event that made the student eligible, the student must have filed a written application for recovery within the original four (4) year period, unless the period has been extended by another act of law.

However, no claim can be paid to any student without a social security number or a taxpayer identification number.

In compliance with the federal Family Education Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (FERPA), LACM is prohibited from providing certain information from your education records to a third party. This includes grades, billing, assessment of tuition and fees, financial aid (including scholarships, grants, and work-study or loan amounts), and other student education record information. The law also restricts LACM from providing this information to your parents, spouse, or financial sponsor.

LACM’s RIGHT TO OVERRIDE OPTIONAL DISCLOSURE

LACM can disclose student information without prior written consent unless an optional disclosure form is specified by the student with the Office of Admissions upon entry or with the Office of the Registrar while attending.

In certain circumstances LACM has the right to disclose information with or without optional disclosure from the student or their family.  Under FERPA regulations, these circumstances might include the following:

• School officials or designated individuals with legitimate educational interest who might require such Directory Information in order to fulfill the professional responsibilities of their role (i.e. faculty, school administrative officials, third party individuals providing educational services to the school and its academic community)
• Upon request of another school in which the student is seeking to enroll, personally identifiable information may be sent by the institution
• To disclose personally identifiable information from education records without consent when the disclosure is in connection with financial aid for which the student has applied or which the student has received, if the information is necessary for such purposes as to: determine the eligibility for the aid; determine the amount of the aid; determine the conditions for the aid; and/or enforce the terms and conditions of the aid. With respect to this exception, the term “financial aid” means payment of funds provided to an individual (or payment in kind of tangible or intangible property to the individual) that is conditioned on the individual’s attendance at a school
• The institution may also disclose personally identifiable information from education records, without consent, to appropriate parties, including parents of an eligible student, in connection with a health or safety emergency. Under this provision, colleges and universities may notify parents when there is a health or safety emergency involving their son or daughter, even if the parents do not claim the student as a dependent

Other special circumstances in which FERPA allows for non-consensual disclosure of personally identifiable information from education records:

 

• to authorized representatives of the Comptroller General of the United States, the Attorney General of the United States, the U.S. Secretary of Education, and State and local educational authorities for audit or evaluation of Federal or State supported education programs, or for the enforcement of or compliance with Federal legal requirements that relate to those programs
• to organizations conducting studies for or on behalf of the school making the disclosure for the purposes of administering predictive tests, administering student aid programs, or improving instruction
• to comply with a judicial order or a lawfully issued subpoena
• to the victim of an alleged perpetrator of a crime of violence or a non-forcible sex offense concerning the final results of a disciplinary hearing with respect to the alleged crime; and
• to any third party the final results of a disciplinary proceeding related to a crime of violence or non-forcible sex offense if the student who is the alleged perpetrator is found to have violated the school’s rules or policies. The disclosure of the final results only includes: the name of the alleged perpetrator, the violation committed, and any sanction imposed against the alleged perpetrator. The disclosure must not include the name of any other student, including a victim or witness, without the written consent of that other student

The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) is a United States federal law that affords students certain rights with respect to their education records. They are:

1. The right of the student to inspect and review their education records within 45 days of the day the College receives a request for access. Students should submit a written request that identifies the record(s) they wish to inspect to the Registrar, Dean of Students, Department Head or other appropriate officials. College officials will make arrangements for access and notify the student of the time and place where the records may be viewed. If the requested records are not maintained by the College official to whom the request was submitted, that official shall advise the student of the correct official to whom the request should be addressed.
2. The right to request the correction of education records that the student believes to be inaccurate or misleading. The student should write to the LACM official responsible for the record, clearly identifying the part of the record(s) they want corrected and specifying why it is inaccurate or misleading. If LACM decides not to correct the record as requested by the student, LACM will notify the student of the decision and advise the student of their right to a hearing regarding the request for amendment. Additional information regarding hearing procedures will be provided to the student when notified of the right to a hearing.
3. The right of consent to disclosures of identifiable information contained in the student’s education records, except to the extent that FERPA authorizes disclosure without consent. An exception to the policy against disclosure without consent is disclosure to College officials with legitimate educational interests. A College official is a person employed by the College in an administrative, supervisory, academic, research or support-staff position (including law enforcement unit personnel and health staff), and may include a student serving on an official committee or assisting another school official in performing his or her tasks. A College official has a legitimate educational interest if the official needs to review an education record to fulfill their professional responsibilities. The College may disclose certain information, known as Directory Information, at its discretion without consent. If a student does not want this information released, the student must complete a Non-release of Directory Information form, available in the Registrar’s office. Other examples of non-Directory Information that may be disclosed without consent include, but are not limited to, a response to subpoenas and/or search warrants, or in cases of emergencies where the life or safety of a student or others is endangered. Upon request, the College may disclose education records without a student’s consent to officials of other schools in which a student seeks or intends to enroll.
4. The right to file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education concerning alleged failure by the College to comply with the requirements of FERPA. The name and address of the office that administers FERPA is:

Family Policy Compliance Office, U.S. Department of Education

400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20202-4605

STUDENT ACCOUNTABILITY 

Each student is responsible for the following:

• Reading the latest Catalog
• Regular access to their SIS account to view their academic progress, registration, scheduled classes, and financial responsibilities
• Regular access to their LACM student email for important information
• Regular access to their LMS (where applicable)
• Submitting official transcripts to the Registrar’s Office when transfer coursework has been completed
• Registering for classes within the registration deadlines
• Completing appropriate forms (drops, adds, status changes, etc.) by the published deadlines
• Applying for aid based on the finalized number of credits for the quarter
• Paying tuition and fees in full or developing a payment plan on or by the published deadlines
• Keeping copies of all transactions, records, and receipts
• Submitting change of name, address, or phone number to the Registrar’s Office in writing
• Being actively engaged in classroom discussions and other activities
• Respecting the rights and property of others
• Being fully acquainted with and complying with the LACM published rules and regulations
• Complying with all local, state, and federal laws
• Adhering to the academic requirements determined by individual instructors

STUDENT STANDARDS OF CONDUCT

Admission to LACM carries with it the presumption that students will conduct themselves in a manner compatible with LACM’s function as an educational institution. Behavior that is disruptive and/or interferes with the educational process is disrespectful of the rights of others and is not acceptable.

Classes at LACM are interactive, drawing on the rich experiences of faculty and students alike. LACM’s anti-bias commitment applies to all areas of discrimination based upon but not limited to culture, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, political or religious affiliation. Therefore, LACM will provide reasonable accommodations for students, faculty, and staff to help develop, maintain, practice, and celebrate individuality. Disrespect shown towards persons in all categories, both generally and as individuals, is not acceptable. Violation of standards of behavior, academic integrity, confidentiality, and discrimination are deemed to be a serious breach of conduct and students doing so will face the possibility of disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal from LACM.

Unacceptable Behavior
Unacceptable behaviors on campus or at a school-sponsored event include, but are not limited to:

• Any violation of LACM Policy as outlined in the Catalog
• Unlawful possession, use, sale, or distribution of drugs
• No smoking or vaping anywhere on campus, in accordance with city law
• Being under the influence of drugs or alcohol
• Inappropriate sexual conduct
• Exhibiting behavior which is disruptive, disrespectful or violent towards staff or other students, including, but not limited to, harassment or discriminatory conduct
• Furnishing false information
• Unauthorized use, forgery, or alteration of LACM’s documents, name, logo, or seal
• Destruction of LACM property or the individual property of students or staff
• Unauthorized possession or use of LACM property or property of students or staff
• Unauthorized use of LACM equipment, keys, access codes, or scan cards
• Possession of firearms, fireworks, explosives, or weapons on LACM’s premises
• Misuse of LACM communication systems: Behavior that disrupts or causes disruption of computer services, including, but not limited to, damaging, altering, or destroying data, records, computer systems, software, programs, or networks
• Theft of LACM individual physical or intellectual property
• Inappropriate use of LACM email
• Unauthorized animals on institutional premises
• Disorderly, lewd, or indecent conduct
• Divulging confidential information: students who work or volunteer in LACM administrative offices and have access to confidential information are prohibited from divulging such information under FERPA
• Unauthorized use, forgery, or alteration of student identification cards
• Inappropriate off-campus conduct when representing LACM
• Disrespect for privacy: students may not give directory information or photos of other students to anyone outside the LACM community
• Inappropriate conduct of guests

Cancellation, Withdrawal and Refund Policies

You, the student, have the right to cancel your Enrollment Agreement at any time by providing written notice to LACM at 300 S. Fair Oaks Ave., Pasadena, California 91105 or registrar@lacm.edu. If LACM receives your notice of cancellation by the end of the first week of class sessions, or the seventh day after enrollment (whichever is later), you have the right to a full refund of all refundable paid fees and are not subject to any penalties or obligations.

If you withdraw from the program, a partial tuition refunds may be issued on a prorated basis if you withdraw from the program by 5 p.m. on the 45th day of the quarter (generally this falls on the Wednesday of Week 7) and have paid for a greater portion of the quarter than you have attended.

For the purpose of determining a refund, a student shall be deemed withdrawn from their program when any of the following occur:

• The student’s Withdrawal Form is processed by the Registrar’s Office
• The college terminates the student’s enrollment for failure to maintain satisfactory academic progress; failure to abide by the rules and regulations of the college; and/or failure to meet financial obligations to the college
• The student fails to return from a Leave of Absence

For the purpose of determining the amount of the refund, the date of the student’s withdrawal shall be deemed the last date of recorded attendance. The amount owed equals the daily charge for the program (total institutional charge, minus non-refundable fees, divided by the number of days in the program), multiplied by the number of days scheduled to attend, prior to withdrawal. If the student has completed more than 60% of the period of attendance for which the student was charged, the tuition is considered earned and the student will not receive a refund.

All refunds will be in the form of a check and will be processed within 45 days of the receipt of your Notice of Cancellation.

ACADEMIC GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE

At the completion of each quarter, grades are made available via the LACM student information system (SIS). If a student feels they have been issued a grade that does not accurately reflect their performance in a particular course they should discuss their concerns with their instructor. If a resolution is not reached, the student should meet with their major Department Head to discuss the issue. If a resolution is reached, the Department Head will notify the instructor of the decision. If the academic issue is not resolved by the department head, the student should see the Academic Advisory to file a formal academic grievance. To be considered, an academic grievance must be submitted no later than the Friday of the first week of the subsequent quarter. The Academic Appeals Committee, which includes the Dean of Students (student advocate), Dean of Faculty (instructor advocate) and the Executive Vice President of Academic Affairs will gather information from all parties involved and review the grievance. A hearing including the student, the student’s instructor and any other pertinent parties may be called if needed. A decision will be determined and communicated within one week of the hearing.

Harassment & Discrimination Grievance Policy

LACM is committed to maintaining a respectful and fair educational and work environment free from discrimination or harassment based on but not limited to race, color, political or religious affiliation, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, citizenship status, age, disability, or veteran’s status. LACM has an Equal Opportunity Complaint Procedure to deal promptly and fairly with concerns and complaints concerning discrimination or harassment. The procedure may be used by any student or employee who believes they have been discriminated against or harassed. Retaliation against anyone who makes a complaint of harassment/discrimination or anyone who is involved in a complaint process will not be tolerated. LACM encourages anyone who perceives harassment or discrimination by any member(s) of the campus community to notify the college promptly. LACM will maintain confidentiality throughout the process as appropriate and to the fullest extent allowed by law. All individuals involved are informed about confidentiality rights and consequences of retaliation, defamation or false accusation. Please meet with the Student Service Office to initiate the grievance process.

Los Angeles College of Music (LACM) captures media content on a consistent basis, comprised of performance audio and video recordings, to be utilized for educational and institution promotion use only.  Every student, alumni, faculty member, guest, staff member and performer recognizes that media content can and will be captured and utilized for these purposes solely.  This media content includes, but is not limited to, still photography, audio recording, video capture, social media content build and release, webcast, exhibition, promotional materials for the institution and/or institution-sponsored events.  Internet promotion, print marketing materials, interactive media, social media and new media technologies are included in this media use policy.

Student Original Work Guidelines

LACM holds that the creation, discovery and dissemination of knowledge are central to the success of the College’s mission. LACM and its stakeholders share an interest both in the protection of copyrighted works and in the use of copyrighted works in the daily pursuit of learning, discovery, and the creative process.

LACM is committed to providing such an environment that supports and inspires the teaching, learning, and creative activities of its students. This Fair Use policy has been prepared in this spirit and with this intent, and aims to promote and encourage excellence and innovation in music composition and performance by identifying and protecting the rights of LACM students. Copyright ownership and the rights thereof are concepts defined by federal law.

The works produced by students at LACM are for the fulfillment of class assignments. These can be in a solo or collaborative setting, with or without use of LACM equipment and on or off campus. While student works are created for educational and not commercial fulfillment, LACM recognizes the student work (s) may have commercial value. Therefore, it’s in the best interest of the student and LACM that the student work (s) remains subject to certain guidelines until the educational experience it’s associated with is complete.

Student work guidelines:

• Ownership of the student work (s) belongs to the student who creates the work
• In the event the work was created in a collaborative setting, shared ownership of the work is based on the agreement between the creators
• Any/all students who create the work are responsible to abide by all federal copyright laws and agree to indemnify and hold LACM harmless against any harm, loss, liability or damage that may occur as a result of the production of the work
• Any income created from the sale of the work (s) is the property of the sole and/or co-creator (s)
• The creator (s) who owns the work gives LACM the right to use the work for the sole purpose of publicizing LACM without a payment or royalty to the student (s)
• Any participation in the student work by a LACM faculty or staff member does not deem them co-creators of the work