Navigating Higher Education: A Detailed Look at the Council of Independent Colleges Tuition Exchange Program

The landscape of higher education is constantly evolving, and with it, the financial considerations for students and their families. The Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) Tuition Exchange Program (CIC-TEP) stands out as a valuable resource for those seeking affordable access to private education. This article delves into the specifics of the CIC-TEP, exploring its eligibility requirements, benefits, and operational mechanics.

Introduction to the CIC Tuition Exchange Program

The CIC Tuition Exchange Program (CIC-TEP) is a network of CIC colleges and universities that are willing to accept, tuition-free, students from families of full-time employees of other CIC-TEP institutions. Nearly 440 colleges and universities from 47 states and seven countries are participating.

Independent Institutions: A Definition

Simply defined, “independent” institutions are governed by boards of private citizens and operate independent of government control.

Eligibility Criteria for the CIC-TEP

Eligibility for the CIC-TEP involves several factors related to both the employee and the student.

Employee Requirements

The employee (parent) must be employed at Pace University, full-time, for a minimum of three (3) continuous years immediately prior to September 1st of the initial scholarship year and must also be in active full-time service at that time. The continuation of the scholarship is also dependent upon the employee’s continued full time status at Pace University. In addition, both schools must continue to participate in the program. All employees who are currently receiving a tuition exchange scholarship must submit a recertification form each fall for the upcoming academic year. If the employee leaves their position, either voluntarily or through the Council of Independent Colleges (CIC), that scholarship will end as of the employee’s last day of work. The employee is responsible for communicating this information to the Financial Aid office at the importing school and for securing alternate funding to replace the tuition exchange scholarship.

Student Requirements

Eligible students are dependents (equivalent to the IRS definition of a dependent), spouses, or full time employees. Eligibility for graduate study under the CIC program is limited to the employee and his/her spouse. Student applicants must be admissible at the host/importing institution in accordance with regular institutional admission standards and must comply with all of the host institution’s financial aid policies and procedures. Students should submit their CIC-TEP application simultaneously with their application for college admission.

Definition of "Dependent"

“Dependent” is generally defined using the Federal tax definition. However, with divorces, deaths, etc., exceptions are sometimes made at the discretion of the exporting institution.

Financial Aspects of the CIC-TEP Scholarship

The CIC-TEP scholarship covers a significant portion of college expenses, but it's essential to understand what is included and what is not.

Coverage Details

Scholarships cover full tuition. Students are responsible for all non-tuition charges-room, board, and fees-at the institution in which they enroll (host/importing institution).

Impact on Other Financial Aid

The complex nature of financial aid programs requires that many factors be taken into consideration regarding other types of financial aid. If the aid program is specific to tuition, the student may not obtain additional money (since TEP covers full tuition). Student applicants are required to submit all financial aid awards to the import institution. Import institutions should establish detailed financial award policies.

Read also: WSAC Overview

Tax Implications

The TEP benefit itself is not taxable.

Application Process and Deadlines

Navigating the application process requires attention to detail and adherence to deadlines.

Application Submission

Once eligibility has been verified, scholarship application forms will be processed with the schools listed on each form (limit of 12). The schools listed on an employee’s application form can be changed by the employee at any time.

Institutional Procedures

Each institution determines its own procedure and criteria for selecting import applicants. The importing school will send notifications to those who have applied for the scholarship. The importing school will also communicate to the applicant that they must apply through and be accepted via the normal Admissions channels and that decisions are typically made in mid/late spring.

Point Park University as an Example

As an example, Point Park University is a participating member of the Council of Independent Colleges Tuition Exchange Program. Through this program, Point Park University will offer three tuition awards each year to new or returning undergraduate students. Only full-time on-ground students are eligible. (Room and board, lab fees, and other University fees are not covered). Applications will be evaluated primarily on GPA, test scores, class rank and other information contained in the Admission Application. Applicants must be accepted as full-time degree seeking students. All admission materials must be received in the Office of Admissions by February 1. In addition, students should complete the Tuition Exchange Program Student Application Form and submit it to their exporting institution’s CIC-TEP Liaison, who in turn submits it to Point Park’s Human Resources Office by February 15. The Point Park University selection committee will review all CIC-TEP applications in early February and offers will be sent by end of February. Students who receive an award must maintain a 2.0 GPA and complete 24 credit hours at the end of each academic year.

Application Deadline at Point Park University

All college admission materials must be received in the Office of Admissions by February 1. The application form must be submitted to the exporting institution’s liaison, who, in turn, will submit it to Point Park’s Human Resources Department by February 1. For the upcoming year, the appropriate FAFSA should be completed by March 15. Awards supersede previously awarded funds by Point Park University.

Cedarville University as an Example

For Employees of other CIC Participating Institutions the Tuition Exchange program is competitive so early application is encouraged!Eligibility and selection criteria include:Classification: New FreshmenFor undergraduate programs onlyGPA (college or high school)ACT or SAT scoresMajor field of studyStudent must be a dependent (as defined by FAFSA) of parent(s) who are employed full time at a participating institution

Aid Application Process at Cedarville University

Complete Cedarville University’s regular admission process and be accepted.Complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid).Have the contact person from your school complete and submit the Tuition Exchange Program: Student Application to Cedarville University. If you have any questions, contact Vicky Herby in the Cedarville University Financial Aid Office (937-766-7866).Cedarville University will select recipients by mid-March.

Tuition Exchange Awarding at Cedarville University

Tuition Exchange covers the cost of tuition only (non-tuition charges are the responsibility of the student) and can be used for up to eight semesters of enrollment (fall and spring terms).The awarding sequence for Tuition Exchange recipients is as follows:Federal and state grants/scholarships will be applied first (this will require families to submit a FAFSA for all degree-seeking students).Institutional aid will be applied next, including but not limited to academic scholarships, need-based grants, athletic aid, music or other performance scholarships, and the matching portion of a church grant.Tuition Exchange will then be awarded to bring the total aid package to 100% of tuition.Outside scholarships, including church scholarships, may be applied after the Tuition Exchange award.

Renewal requirements at Cedarville University

Yes, this award is renewable as long as the student:Completes the FAFSA annually;Completes the CIC application annually;Maintains Satisfactory Academic Progress (SAP); andRemains in “Good Standing” with the University (see below).Student must be a dependent (as defined by FAFSA) of parent(s) who are employed full time at a participating institution“Good standing” shall be determined as follows:In support of Cedarville University’s commitment to the individual and communal benefits of the Cedarville community covenant, an annual review of student conduct will be required for scholarship renewal. Any student who, in the sole discretion of the Student Life Deans on a case-by-case basis, has demonstrated a pattern of conduct that indicates disregard for University policies will not be considered eligible for scholarship renewal.If a student believes his/her status of scholarship eligibility was determined in error or inappropriately, the student has the option to appeal. The student should submit a letter of appeal that details the factors that should be considered in his/her scholarship standing with the University, as well as his/her plans to address the concerns which led to the standing. Submit the appeal to the Director for Student Development within 14 days of notice of non-renewal.

Scholarship Renewal and Duration

Understanding the terms of scholarship renewal is crucial for long-term planning. While students usually receive the benefit for four years, it is not guaranteed. The student must continue to meet the college’s academic standards, both institutions must remain as participants in the program, and the employee must continue to meet the eligibility requirements of the benefit. The benefit is available for a total of four years or eight semesters (consecutive or non-consecutive). Students in good standing are automatically eligible for up to three years of annual renewal of tuition remission for undergraduate study (for a total benefit of four years or eight semesters).

The Role of the Liaison Officer

The liaison officer plays a critical role in the administration of the CIC-TEP. The liaison officer is responsible for maintaining student applications using the CIC-TEP Online Portal, which includes verifying eligibility of export applicants and managing the approval process for import applications. The Director - Human Resources will serve as the Tuition Exchange Liaison Officer who approves export applications as eligible for the program.

Institutional Commitments and Program Dynamics

Participating institutions have specific responsibilities to maintain the integrity of the program.

Import Requirements

The institution is required to “import” a minimum of three new, admissions-qualified CIC-TEP applicants each year. Each participating institution agrees to import at least three students on the same admission basis as they accept all other students, with no regard to the number of students it exports. The import institution’s commitment to each student is limited to full tuition remission.

No Import/Export Balance Requirement

No “import” and “export” student balance requirements.

Transition to TELO System

Beginning with the 2027-28 application cycle, launching July 1, 2026, administration of CIC-TEP will transition to the TELO system, hosted by Tuition Exchange. All users must view a training session to access the TELO system.

Additional Resources and Initiatives by CIC

CIC is involved in various initiatives aimed at supporting independent higher education.

Campus Leadership Support

Campus leadership support and development is a key CIC priority. This page accumulates a growing list of resources primarily intended for first-time presidents of a CIC type college and university.

Online Platform for Independent Higher Education

An online platform connecting you to companies and consultants dedicated to the independent higher education sector, free of charge.

Belong Network

Belong is a network of CIC member colleges and universities dedicated to making their campuses more welcoming and inclusive.

Workshops and Events

The 2026 Workshops for Department and Division Chairs will focus on effective strategies to develop leadership skills and an institution-wide vision in the context of uncertainty and change. Resources from the 2026 Presidents Institute are now available online. This spring, leaders from NetVUE member institutions will gather to consider how they might strengthen their support of undergraduate students as they explore their many callings in life.

National Center for Careers and the Liberal Arts

The workshop will engage campus leaders, career professionals, and employment experts as we design a model for a National Center for Careers and the Liberal Arts. Once launched, the Center will augment the work already being done at independent colleges and universities by supporting campus initiatives and providing research, employer partnerships, and thought leadership.

Frequently Asked Questions

Addressing common queries can help clarify uncertainties about the CIC-TEP.

What are my chances of being accepted for CIC-TEP?

Chances vary widely among institutions and from year to year.

What is covered under the CIC-TEP benefit?

The benefit covers the full cost of tuition.

Who is eligible for the benefit?

CIC-TEP may be used by any full-time employee at a participating institution. This approach is both nondiscriminatory and in compliance with IRS Regulations. Eligible students are dependents (equivalent to the IRS definition of a dependent), spouses, or full-time employees. Graduate study is limited to employees and spouses. Employees should contact the CIC-TEP liaison at his/her home institution to see if there is a waiting period for new employees.

Once I’m accepted into the program, is my renewal guaranteed?

While students usually receive the benefit for four years, it is not guaranteed. The student must continue to meet the college’s academic standards, both institutions must remain as participants in the program, and the employee must continue to meet the eligibility requirements of the benefit.

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