Standard Nine: Advertising

Statutory Authority: O.C.G.A. §§ 20-3-250.5(b)(2); 20-3-250.6(a)(9) 

1. All published institutional documentation, including advertisements, must present only accurate information and should never engage in any communications that are false, deceptive, misleading, or unfair. 
   1. Any photos used must not be misleading. 
   2. Job placement cannot be guaranteed. 
   3. No service or equipment provided to enrolled students can be represented as “free.” 
   4. All advertising, including but not limited to websites and social media platforms, may only present information consistent with programming approved by this agency.
2. The institution will abide by all applicable consumer protection laws to ensure the fair and equitable treatment of all constituents (potential and enrolled students). 
3. The institution will not use authorization by this agency as an endorsement or an apparent endorsement by the agency including but not limited to use on any advertisement, publication, statement, or credential awarded to graduates upon completion; provided, however, an institution shall not be prohibited from publicly stating that it has been duly authorized by this agency. 
4. The institution shall notify this agency and prominently disclose on its publicly accessible website any of the following actions initiated or imposed by any state agency, federal authority, or recognized accrediting body that relate to the institution’s academic quality, financial stability, consumer protection, or compliance with applicable requirements:
   1. Sanctions;
   2. Adverse actions;
   3. Provisional or monitoring statuses;
   4. Warnings or probations;
   5. Fines;
   6. Compliance actions; or

   7. Formal investigations.

      Such disclosure shall be made within thirty (30) calendar days of the institution’s first knowledge of the action or investigation and shall remain publicly available until the action is resolved. Disclosures must be accurate, up to date, clearly dated, and explanatory.