Academic Policies
Policy Number: 1.004
Effective Date: July 1, 2019
Date of Last Revision: February 6, 2023
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College is an open admissions institution, as established by the
Louisiana Legislature and approved by the Board of Regents and Louisiana Community and Technical
College System.
Any person above the age of 16, regardless of prior academic preparation, may be fully admitted to NLTCC
as long as the following criteria are satisfied:
• The person has completed and submitted an application for admission.
• The person has provided proof of selective service registration as required by Louisiana R.S. 17:3151.
• The person has satisfied the requirements of Louisiana R.S. 17:170 related to the immunization of persons entering school.
Persons 16 years of age or younger must, in addition to the requirements stated above, provide proof of
graduation from a state-approved high school or high school equivalency to be fully admitted to NLTCC.
This admission policy does not apply to the following: (1) High School Dual Enrollment students and (2)
International students.
Certain programs within the institution may require additional admission standards in order to meet external
regulatory agency requirements. Programs requiring high school diploma or equivalent:
• TD Nursing
• CTS Patient Care Technician
• CTS Phlebotomy
• CTS EKG
• CTS Heavy Equipment Vehicle Operator
(*Proof of high school diploma or equivalent is required prior to registering for courses.)
All eligible persons are assured equal opportunity for admission without regard to ethnicity, religion, gender,
national origin, age, disability, marital status, or veteran status. Northwest Louisiana Technical Community
College reserves the right to refuse admission to any student.
Full admittance to the college does not guarantee student has met the eligibility requirements for Federal
Financial Aid.
NLTCC operates on a three-semester system, which includes a summer term. A qualified applicant may
register at the beginning of any academic session within the semester. Complete admission records must be
received in the Admissions/Registrar’s Office prior to registration in order for the applicant to be notified
regarding eligibility for admission.
The student’s permanent record may contain the following information: academic transcripts from high
school and college, placement test scores, immunization records, and proof of Selective Service registration
by male students.
Policy Number: 1.004a
Effective Date: September 13, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Any student entering Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) as a first-time freshman is required
to meet the admission requirements contained in this policy memorandum.
254.1 Definition & General Eligibility for College Admission
A first-time freshman is a student who has not previously attended Northwest Louisiana Technical
Community College or any other regionally accredited institution of higher education and/or has earned
fewer than 12 credit hours.
Applicants described below meet requirements for college admission.
High School Graduates:
254.1.1 High school graduates of secondary education schools approved by a state department of education or
accredited by a regional accrediting association are eligible for college admission.
254.1.2 High school graduates from schools not approved by the State of Louisiana or schools not regionally
accredited are eligible for college admission into occupational programs (other than those described in
Section 254.2). Note: some programs have specific age requirements.
254.1.2.1 For admission purposes, LTC accepts scores on any of the tests that are approved as an
LTC placement exam (SAT, ACT, ACT ASSET, ACT COMPASS) taken within the last
3 years.
Non-High School Graduates:
254.1.3 Non-high school graduates (dropouts) who have passed the General Education Diploma (GED) exam are
eligible for college admission. Note: some programs have specific age requirements.
254.1.4 Non-high school graduates (dropouts) without a GED who are at least 17 years of age (or meet specific
program age requirements) are eligible for college admission into occupational programs (with the
exception of those described in Section 254.2).
254.1.4.1 For admission purposes, LTC accepts scores on any of the tests that are approved as an
LTC placement exam (SAT, ACT, ACT ASSET, ACT COMPASS) taken within the last
3 years.
254.2 Limitations on Program Admissions
254.2.1 All applicants seeking admission into Associate Degree programs must be either graduates of an
approved school of secondary education or have earned a GED from an approved school of
secondary education and meet any program admission requirements as defined by a regulatory or
accrediting agency of the program.
254.2.2 All applicants seeking admission into any Certificate or Technical Diploma program must meet any
program admission requirements as defined by a regulatory or accrediting agency of the program.
254.3 Enrollment Requirements for Degree/Diploma/Certificate Seeking Applicants
254.3.1 Applicants must complete a formal application for admission prior to the beginning of the semester for
which admission is sought. The application must be accompanied by the applicable non-refundable
application fee.
254.3.2 Applicants must provide proof of high school graduation as applicable:
254.3.2.1 Applicants must provide an official high school transcript if the campus is unable to access
STS (State Transcript System) data. STS data should be available to campus officials for
all students graduating in May 2003 or later.
254.3.2.2 Applicants who graduated 10 years prior to their admission date may provide the high
school diploma for photocopying.
254.3.2.3 Applicants with a GED must bring in the original certificate or scores to be photocopied
by the campus Office of Student Affairs. Those earning the GED 10 years prior to their
admission date may provide the GED diploma for photocopying.
254.3.3 Unless already exempted by approved test scores that are less than three (3) years old, applicants must
take the ACT COMPASS or ACT ASSET test as applicable:
254.3.3.1 To determine program placement (need for Developmental Studies) for students enrolling
in Certificate of Technical Studies, Technical Diploma, and/or Associate of Applied Science
Degree programs.
• Note: Applicants to programs which have a terminal exit of Technical Competency Area are not required
to test for College Admission or for Program Placement.
254.3.4 Provide proof of state required immunizations if born after 1956 (on state-approved form).
254.3.5 Provide proof of any previous college or university enrollment/credits earned.
254.3.6 If required, register for the federal draft prior to enrollment (per Louisiana Revised Statute 17:3151).
254.4 Enrollment Requirements for Non-Degree Seeking Applicants (those not seeking any type of NLTCC
credential).
254.4.1 Complete a formal application for admission prior to the beginning of the semester for which admission
is sought. The application must be accompanied by an applicable non-refundable application fee.
254.4.2 Provide proof of state required immunizations if born after 1956 (on state-approved form).
254.4.3 Prior to enrollment in any general education course, take the Louisiana Technical College Placement Test
and meet the required scores, unless exempted by approved test scores that are less than 3 years old.
254.4.5 If required, registered for the federal draft prior to enrollment (as per Louisiana Revised Statute
17:3151).
Notes:
• A non-degree seeking student cannot earn a credential from LTC.
• Though not required, it is recommended that a non-degree seeking student declare as
degree/diploma/certificate seeking after earning 11 credit hours.
• A student changing from non-degree seeking status to degree/diploma/certificate seeking status must meet,
at the time of program change, all requirements for the occupational program in which he/she is seeking
admission.
Policy Reference:
LCT #SA1930.254 Admission of First-Time Freshman
Louisiana Revised Statute 17:170
Louisiana Revised Statute 17:3151
LCTCS Policy 1.004 General Admissions Policy for
First Time Freshmen
LTC Policy IS 1930.173 Placement Exams
LTC Policy IS1930.139 Developmental Education
Policy Name: Admission of Transfer and Re-Entry Students
Policy Number: 1.004b
Effective Date: September 13, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Admission of Transfer and Re-Entry Students
Any student entering Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) as a transfer or re-entry student is
required to meet the admission requirements contained in this policy memorandum.
255.1 Definitions
255.1.1 A transfer student is any student who has attended any other regionally accredited postsecondary institution
of higher education.
255.1.2 An intra-transfer student is a student who transfers from one Louisiana Technical Community College
System (LCTCS) campus to another LCTCS campus.
255.1.3 An inter-transfer student is a student who transfers from one occupational program to a different
occupational program at the same LCTCS campus.
255.1.4 A re-entry student is any student who has previously attended the campus of original enrollment of a
Louisiana Community and Technical College and who has had at least a regular semester break in
enrollment. Note: Summers are not considered regular semesters.
255.2 Eligibility for Admission of Transfer Students
255.2.1 All students wishing to transfer with fewer than 12 semester hours of coursework must meet the same
requirements as entering freshmen. (Please see LTC Policy #SA 1930.254)
255.2.2 Postsecondary students with more than 12 semester hours of coursework must meet the specific
requirements for the program of entry.
NOTE: Although high school and college transcripts are not required for admission to the college,
financial aid and some programs may require that a student provide these documents.
255.3 Procedures for Admission of Postsecondary Transfer Students with 12 Credit Hours or More:
255.3.1 Complete a formal application for admission prior to the beginning of the semester for which admission is
sought.
255.3.2 Take the ACCUPLACER Placement Test unless exempted by
• ACT scores
• *Official proof of an associate's or higher-level degree
• *Official proof of satisfactory completion of approved college level English and Math Note:
*Transfer in students whose official transcripts prove the successful completion (minimum of "C")
in required college level transferable general education courses are exempt from taking the
placement test unless otherwise required for program entry by an accrediting agency; i.e.,
Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners (LTC Policy IS1930.173).
• Provide a high school transcript showing successful completion/graduation to have placement
testing waived in all programs except for health care programs and AAS programs.
254.3.4 Provide proof of state required immunizations if born after 1956 (on state-approved form) as per
Louisiana Revised Statute 17:170 or sign a waiver if applicable. Medical programs will not accept the
waiver.
255.3.6 If required, register for the federal draft prior to enrollment (per Louisiana Revised Statute 17:3151).
255.4 Inter-Transfer Students
255.4.1 Students who transfer between programs at the same campus must complete and obtain approved
signatures on the NLTCC Request to Transfer Between Programs form. NLTCC may transition
students into an alternate program or include a secondary major if desired goals and course participation
warrants such action.
255.4.2 Inter-transfer students must meet the admissions requirements for the new program of entry.
255.4.3 Official enrollment in the new program will begin the semester after the request is approved.
255.4.4 Credit will be awarded for courses successfully completed in the original program that have the same
competencies as courses in the new program area. 255.4.5 Transfers between programs may affect
financial aid eligibility.
255.5 Academic Status for Transfer Students
255.5.1 A student who transfers to or within LCTCS with an adjusted cumulative grade point average of 2.000 or
higher will be admitted in academic good standing.
255.5.2 A student who transfers to or within LCTCS with an adjusted cumulative grade point average of less
than a 2.000 will be admitted on academic probation. A student will be informed that credits earned
under these conditions will most likely not be accepted for degree credit at any other LCTCS institution
nor will they generally be accepted at any other regionally accredited institution.
255.5.3 A student who has been academically suspended or dismissed from any institution and who has a cumulative
grade point average of 2.0 or higher may be admitted by the Admission Standards Committee in good
academic standing with no restrictions on his/her NLTCC enrollment. Credits earned at N LTCC by a student
while on suspension from other institutions may or may not be accepted toward a degree, diploma, or
certificate at other universities. Prior to enrolling at NLTCC, transfer students with these circumstances and
with the intention of transferring credits earned at NLTCC to other institutions should confer with those
institutions to determine specific college/university regulations.
255.5.4 Students admitted on academic probation must earn a semester grade point average of 2.000 or higher
during the first semester of enrollment at NLTCC in order to enroll in subsequent college semesters.
255.6 Admission Requirements for Re-Entry Students:
255.6.1 Students being readmitted to the campus must complete a formal application for admission prior to the
beginning of the semester for which admission is sought.
255.7 Provisions of Re-Admission
255.7.1 Students who do not attend for one regular semester (Fall or Spring) will be readmitted under the curriculum
in effect at the time of readmission.
255.7.2 Students being readmitted under a different program/major must meet all program requirements for
admission to that program.
255.7.3 Students being readmitted who have attended another LCTCS campus, college, or university prior to
readmission to NLTCC will be considered a transfer student.
255.7.4 To be eligible for unconditional readmission, students must have earned at least a 2.000 cumulative grade
point average on all work attempted, both at NLTCC and at all other colleges and universities. If this
condition is not satisfied, applicants for re-admission will be placed on academic probation.
255.8 Student Records and Transfer Credit
Acceptance of Transfer Credit belongs to the Instructional Services division (LTC Policy #1930.106). Note:
Acceptance of transfer credit toward an NLTCC credential may be affected by a regular semester break in
enrollment, change of major or grades earned. Students must submit an NLTCC Transcript Evaluation Request
form to their academic advisors who will aid in the evaluation of credits to be accepted for credit toward an
NLTCC credential. Final approvals are made by the Vice Chancellor of Academic and Student Affairs or
designee. The items below speak to responsibilities by the Office of Student Affairs regarding transcript
authenticity and the entering of transfer credits for Student Records.
255.8.1 Only official transcripts from a regionally or COE accredited postsecondary institution of higher
education will be accepted for transfer grade entry into the student records database. Note:
Accreditation information is usually printed under the name of the institution on the front of the
transcript and/or in the transcript legend on the back of the transcript.
255.8.2 Official transcripts are those sent directly from the sending institution's registrar's office to the Office of
Student Affairs of the receiving LCTC Campus. Note: Do not accept transcripts stamped "Issued to
Student."
255.8.3 Authenticity checks of official transcripts must be performed by Student Affairs.
255.8.3.1 The signature on transcripts received and the date of issue must be checked. A statement
regarding authenticity of signature is usually printed on the transcript.
255.8.3.2 The authenticity of the paper on which the transcript is printed should be checked. The color of the
paper and authenticity test is usually printed on the transcript.
255.8.3.3 The seal will be checked. The institution's school seal or a statement regarding the seal is usually
printed on the front of the transcript.
255.8.4 The following institutional procedures outline which transfer grades are to be entered on Student
Records.
255.8.5 Courses with course numbers beginning with the number zero (O) are developmental or remedial and are not
accepted as transfer towards an NLTCC credential and are not entered into the student records database, These
courses can be considered for program placement purposes.
255.8.6 Course credits of transfer students who hold a bachelor's or higher degree do not have to be entered into the
student records database unless these credits are being applied toward an NLTCC credential.
255.8.7 Courses in which the transfer student earned a grade of "A through C" or "PIS" may be considered for
credit toward an NLTCC credential and will be entered into the student records database if the student does
not hold a bachelor's or higher level degree, if applicable.
255.8.8 Non-traditional credits (military credit, Life Experience Credit, CLEP exams) that have been granted by
another accredited institution of higher education may be considered by NLTCC for credit toward a credential
and must be entered into the student records database if the student does not hold a bachelor's or higher-level
degree, if applicable. Nontraditional credits are entered with a "P" grade, no credits attempted, and no quality
points assigned. Appropriate credits earned are entered.
255.8.9 Credit hours earned by an intra-transfer student (from another LCTCS campus) may be accepted toward a
credential at the receiving campus and must be entered into the student records database of the receiving
campus.
Policy Reference:
LCT SA1930.255 Admission of Transfer and Re-Entry Students
Louisiana Revised Statute 17:170
Louisiana Revised Statute 17:3151
LTC Policy #SA 1930.254 Admission of First Time Freshmen
LTC Policy #IS1930.106 Acceptance of Transfer Credit
LTC Policy 1930.102 Academic Status
LTC Policy #IS 1930.173 Placement Testing
Policy Name: Admission of Dual Enrolled High
School Students
Policy Number: 1.004c
Effective Date: September 13, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Admission of Dual Enrolled High School Students
Scope:
The purpose of this policy is to identify college admission requirements, program admission requirements and
procedures, and specific limitations of dual enrolled high school students.
High school students must understand that if accepted for dual enrolled college admission, they can be dropped
immediately from the college if any disciplinary problems arise.
256.1 Eligibility for College Admission of Dual Enrolled High School Students
256.1.1 College admission of high school students enrolled on-site at NLTCC campuses will be limited to
those high school students at least 16 years of age or at the Junior or Senior level in high school.
• The total number of admissions on-site will be determined by specific program capacities.
256.1.2 Dual Enrolled high school students must, each semester, have the approval of the high school principal or
counselor and parent or guardian prior to college admission.
256.1.3 High school students must meet college admission requirements defined below for their program status of
choice: Certificate/Technical Diploma Seeking or Non-Degree seeking.
256.1.4 High school students must meet any special requirements for the programs in which they are seeking
admission.
256.2 Limitations of concurrently/dual enrolled high school students
256.2.1 Dual enrolled high school students are not eligible for Title IV funds.
256.2.2 Dual enrolled high school students who are receiving instruction in NLTCC courses at the high school
site cannot be concurrently enrolled with adults at that same high school site unless the high school site is
an approved COE instructional service center.
256.3 Admission as Certificate or Technical Diploma Seeking Students
256.3.1 Dual enrolled high school students are limited to college admission in Certificate or Technical
Diploma programs that do not require a high school diploma or GED for admission or programs that
have any special requirements set by regulatory and/or accrediting agencies.
256.3.2 Prior to initial college admission and with any break in a regular semester of enrollment (excluding
summer), dual enrolled high school students must submit a completed NLTCC Application for
Admission along with a completed NLTCC High School Student Dual Enrollment form.
256.3.3 Prior to initial college admission to a Certificate of Technical Studies (CTS) or Technical Diploma
(TD) program, dual enrolled high school students must demonstrate an ability to benefit.
• For admission purposes, NLTCC defines "ability to benefit" as the ability to benefit scores
defined by the U.S. Department of Education.
• For admission purposes, NLTCC accepts scores on any of the tests that are approved as an
NLTCC placement exam (SAT, ACT, ACT ASSET, ACT COMPASS).
256.3.4 Applicants must provide proof of state required immunizations if born after 1956.
256.4 Admission as Non-Degree Seeking Students
256.4.1 Non-degree seeking students cannot earn a credential from NLTCC.
256.4.2 Non-degree seeking students do not have to demonstrate ability to benefit for admission.
256.4.3 Prior to initial college admission and with any break in a regular semester Of enrollment (excluding
summer), dual enrolled high school students seeking enrollment as nondegree seekers must submit a
completed NLTCC Application for Admission along with a completed NLTCC Dual Enrollment form.
256.4.4 Applicants must provide proof of state required immunizations if born after 1956.
256.4.5 Though not required, it is recommended that non-degree seeking students declare a program Status as
certificate or technical diploma seeking after earning 11 credit hours.
• Students changing from a non-degree seeking status to a certificate or technical diploma
seeking status must meet, at the time of program change, all requirements for the program in
which they are seeking admission.
•
256.5 Continuing Status of Dual Enrolled High School Students
256.5.1 Dual enrolled high school students who continue enrollment in the same program without a break in
a regular semester of enrollment (excluding summers) must submit a completed NLTCC High
School Student Dual Enrollment form prior to the beginning of subsequent semesters of enrollment.
256.5.2 Dual enrolled high school students who continue enrollment without a break in a regular semester of
enrollment (excluding summers) but who wish to change programs must submit a completed NLTCC
High School Student Dual Enrollment form and an approved NLTCC Request for Program Change
form prior to the beginning of the subsequent semester of enrollment.
• Students changing programs must meet all requirements for the program in which they are
seeking admission.
256.5.3 Dual enrolled high school students who have previously attended the campus of original enrollment of
a Louisiana Technical and Community College and who have at least one regular semester break in
enrollment must meet re-admission requirements below. Note: summers are not considered as a regular
semester.
Provisions of Re-Admission:
• Prior to college re-admission, dual enrolled high school students must submit a completed
NLTCC Application for Admission along with a completed NLTCC High School Student
Dual Enrollment form before the beginning of the semester for which re-admission is sought.
Certificate and Technical Diploma seeking dual enrolled high school students who do not
attend for one regular semester (Fall or Spring) will be re-admitted under the curriculum in
effect at the time of re-admission.
• Dual enrolled being re-admitted under a different program/major from their initial college
admission must meet all program requirements for admission to that program.
• To be eligible for unconditional re-admission, dual enrolled high school students must have
earned at least a 2.000 cumulative grade point average on all work attempted, both at the NLTCC
and at all other colleges and universities attended. If this condition is not satisfied, applicants for
re-admission will be re-admitted on academic probation.
• Dual enrolled high school students admitted on academic probation must earn a semester grade
point average of 2.000 or higher during the incoming semester of enrollment in order to enroll
in subsequent semesters.
Policy Reference:
LCT SA1930.253 Admission of Dual Enrolled High School Students
Louisiana Revised Statute 17:170
Louisiana Revised Statute 17:3151
LTC Policy #IS 1930.102 Academic Status
LTC Policy 1930.173 Placement Testing
Policy Name:
Policy Number:
Effective Date:
Academic Renewal
1.006
June 1, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area:
Academic Affairs
Academic Renewal
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) grants academic renewal to students transferring in or
returning to the LTC after three academic years.
101.1 SCOPE
The following guidelines govern the Granting/Awarding of Academic Renewal:
101.1.1 At least three years must elapse between the end of the semester in which the student was last registered for
credit at any college or university and being enrolled at the NLTCC in order to be considered for academic
renewal.
101.1.2 A student must submit an application for academic renewal along with official transcripts from all
institutions of higher education attended to the campus Student Affairs Office before the last day of classes
in the first semester of enrollment. The application shall include evidence that conditions have changed and
that there is a reasonable expectation of satisfactory performance.
101.1.3 The application will be evaluated by the academic appeals committee and approved only for those that
convincingly demonstrate potential for success. Applying does not ensure approval.
101.1.4 No prior academic credit carries forward as part of a student's degree program. However, his prior record
remains a part of the student's overall academic record.
101.1.5 If granted, the date of academic renewal is entered upon the LTC transcript along with a statement
prohibiting use of previously earned credits and quality points to:
101.1.5.1 Meet degree requirements
101.1.5.2 Compute the GPA leading toward undergraduate certificates or degrees, or
101.1.5.3 Determine graduation status
101.1.6 Upon being granted academic renewal, the student has the status of an entering freshman and will begin a
new record showing no credits attempted, no quality points earned, and no prior suspensions.
101.1.7 The student demonstrating competence in a given area may be allowed advanced standing (without
credit) or a waiver of requirements just as any entering freshman. Credit examinations may be taken for
courses in which grades of "C" or higher were earned.
101.1.8 NLTCC does accept, in transfer, an academic renewal granted at another institution. However, academic
renewal may be granted to a person only once, regardless of the institutions attended.
101.1.9 Students must be aware that many transfer institutions may compute the undergraduate GPA on all hours
attempted when considering application for admission.
Policy & Reference:
LTC Policy # 15930.101 Academic Renewal
LTC Application for Academic Renewal — ISIOO.3
LCTCS Policy 1.028 Academic Renewal
Policy Name:
Policy Number:
Effective Date:
Instructional Disruption Emergency
1.015
March 6, 2020
Date of Last Revision: N/A
Functional Area:
Academic Affairs
Instructional Disruption Emergency Policy
Purpose
The College maintains learning environments that support the student learning outcomes of every course throughout all
programs offered by the College. Learning environments or methods of delivery include lecture rooms, laboratories, off
campus classrooms and laboratories, and online systems. From time to time, instructional time between faculty and
students is disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances. Therefore, each credit-bearing course offered by the College
includes select instructional items in the online learning management system for the purposes of continued learning
during unforeseen times of instructional disruption.
Scope and Definition
Each credit-bearing course offered by the College is built into the online learning management system and includes the
course syllabus, course grades, and a set of potential activities and/or assignments (Instructional Emergency Plan) that are
stated for the purposes of an unforeseen circumstance that disrupts the instructional time between faculty and students.
Examples of unforeseen disruptions in instructional time include but are not limited to health safety crisis,
hurricane/tropical storm weather, frozen precipitation and flooding, high winds and tornados, and other natural disasters.
In extreme cases where disruptions in instructional time last longer than one week, it may become impossible for the
completion of the credit-bearing courses, and the College Administration reviews the severity of the instructional
disruption and determines if the continuation of the instruction is even possible. If no instructional disruption occurs
during a semester, no action is required for the set of potential activities and/or assignments (Instructional Emergency
Plan) by the faculty or students; however, syllabi and grades must be posted by faculty even when no disruption in
instructional time occurs.
Procedures
1. Each faculty member teaching a credit-bearing course offered by the College includes the course syllabus, course
grades, and a set of potential activities and/or assignments (plan) in Canvas the online learning management system.
2. College Administration determines the severity of the unforeseen instructional disruption and if the set of
potential activities and/or assignments (Instructional Emergency Plan) need to be implemented.
3. When the set of potential activities and/or assignments (Instructional Emergency Plan) is enacted, faculty are
required to communicate to their students by using the official College student email address and notifications made
available in Canvas.
Healthcare Clinical Contingency Plan
If clinical experiences are disrupted, Nursing and Patient Care Technician program faculty will teach didactically online
or face to face (depending upon the situation) until students are allowed to return to clinical locations. The schedules will
be adjusted to accommodate the student needs for completion of clinical hours including 12-hour shifts and weekends.
Original Adoption: June 1, 2007
Effective Date: December 18, 2025
Last Revision Date: November 3, 2025
Cancellation:
Functional Division: Academic Affairs
Policy 1.020
Academic Status
PURPOSE
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) has determined that the academic status of a student is a general indication of the student's eligibility to remain in school. It may affect a student's eligibility for financial aid, scholarships, special insurance rates, work-study programs, and other student activities.
SCOPE
This policy applies to all students enrolled in credit courses at Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC).
POLICY
Academic Status Categories:
I. Good Standing: Being in "good standing" is defined as having an adjusted cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 or higher on all coursework attempted at NLTCC.
II. Warning: Being on academic warning is defined as having an adjusted cumulative GPA below 2.0 on all coursework attempted at NLTCC.
III. Not Good Standing: Being in "not good standing" results in academic suspension and is defined as having an adjusted cumulative GPA below 2.0 on all coursework attempted at NLTCC.
The academic status of each student will be determined at the end of each semester or summer session according to the specific criteria contained in this policy.
Academic Status for NLTCC Students Enrolled in Credit Courses
Good Standing: Good Academic Standing
I. A student who has an adjusted cumulative grade point average of 2.0 (C) or higher on all course work completed at Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College is considered to be in good academic standing. A 2.0 average occurs when the number of quality points is twice the number of quality hours attempted.
Warning: Academic Probation
I. A student will be placed on academic probation when their adjusted cumulative GPA is below a 2.0 (A=4.0). The statement "Academic Probation" will be placed on the student's permanent academic record.
II. Once on probation, a student will remain on probation until the adjusted cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher is achieved.
It is recommended that students on academic probation utilize WorkReadyU for academic remediation to support their progress and improve their academic standing.
Not Good Standing: Academic Suspension
I. A student on academic probation will be suspended from the institution for one semester at the conclusion of any semester or summer session in which he/she fails to earn an adjusted cumulative GPA of 2.0. The statement "Academic Suspension" will be placed on the student's permanent academic record.
II. A student who is suspended at the end of the fall semester must remain out of school for the spring semester. A student who is suspended at the end of the spring semester may attend the summer session. If the student raises their adjusted cumulative GPA to 2.0 during the summer session, the student may attend the fall semester. If the adjusted cumulative GPA remains below 2.0, or if the student does not attend the summer session, the student is suspended for the fall semester.
III. A student may appeal to attend the College during his/her suspension semester. The appeal must be in writing to the Academic Appeals Committee on the student's home campus.
IV. A student who has been academically suspended may reenter NLTCC under academic probation.
V. A student who has been placed on academic suspension and achieved an adjusted cumulative GPA of 2.0 for the semester following reinstatement must maintain at least an adjusted cumulative GPA 2.0 in each subsequent semester of attendance until they achieve an adjusted cumulative GPA of 2.0. Failure to make an adjusted cumulative GPA of 2.0 in any subsequent semester before the adjusted cumulative GPA 2.0 grade point average is achieved will result in another one semester suspension.
Students placed on academic suspension may continue to utilize WorkReadyU for academic remediation during their suspension period.
Academic Status in Specific Majors
Faculty in a given major may, with the approval of the Chief Academic Officer of the College, establish and publish higher academic standards for admission, continuation and/or reentry to the major.
Academic Status of Transfer Students
A student who is on probation and who has an adjusted cumulative GPA average below 2.0 at their previous institution will enter NLTCC on probation. At the end of their first semester at NLTCC, the student will be suspended if they do not achieve an adjusted cumulative GPA of 2.0 for the semester. The student will be placed in good academic standing if their adjusted cumulative GPA is 2.0 or higher.
Admission of Students Academically Suspended/Dismissed from Regionally Accredited Institutions
I. Except as specified in section III and IV below, a student who has been academically suspended/dismissed from a regionally accredited institution is not admissible to NLTCC until their suspension period has expired.
II. A student who has been academically suspended or dismissed from a regionally accredited institution may appeal in writing to the Academic Appeals Committee for permission to enroll at NLTCC during their period of suspension.
III. A student who has been academically suspended or dismissed from any institution who has an adjusted cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher may, upon the recommendation of the Academic Appeals Committee, be admitted in good academic standing in no more than 15 credit hours in the returning semester.
IV. A student who has an adjusted cumulative GPA below 2.0 is allowed to take academic remediation courses through WorkReadyU.
Credits earned by a student while on suspension may or may not be accepted toward a degree, diploma, and/or certificate. Individual colleges and universities determine whether students will be awarded credit for courses taken while on suspension or dismissal. Therefore, all students on suspension/dismissal should confer with transfer institutions prior to enrolling at the NLTCC to determine specific college/university regulations.
Definitions
Quality Hours: Quality hours are those credit hours for which a student registers and receives a grade of A – F. Credit courses for which a student receives a grade of "P," "CR" and "S" are included in earned hours, but not quality hours. Courses for which students register, but later withdraw with a grade of "W" are included in attempted hours, but not quality hours.
Cumulative Quality Hours: Cumulative quality hours are all hours for which a student has registered and has received a final grade of A – F at the college as well as all quality hours accepted in transfer (including hours that would have been accepted had the student not earned a grade of F).
Adjusted Cumulative Grade Point Average: This GPA is adjusted to exclude those quality hours and grades which have been removed from the calculation of a student's grade point average through a repeat/delete policy and/or Academic Renewal. This adjusted cumulative grade point average will include grades earned at the home institution and is used to determine a student's academic status.
Review Process: Provide/edit example table below to document review process and all reviewing entities.
Reviewing Council/Entity Review Date Effective Date
Chancellor’s Executive Cabinet 11/3/2025
Policy Review Committee 11/5/2025
Faculty Senate 12/17/2025
Chancellor’s Final Approval 12/18/2025
Policy Reference: LCTCS Policy #1.020, Academic Status
Forms Referenced:
Form 1.020a – NLTCC Academic Probation Notification
Form 1.020b – NLTCC Academic Suspension Notification
Form 1.020c – NLTCC Academic Probation Status Change Notification
Distribution:
Distributed Electronically via College’s website
Hard Copy Distributed to Chancellor’s Assistant
Policy Name: Withdrawal from the College
Policy Number: 1.021
Effective Date: June 1, 2014
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Withdrawal From the College Policy
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) provides for a student to officially withdraw from the
College for the semester/session.
Scope
It is the student's responsibility to withdraw from the College.
Students, who stop attending but do not complete and submit a Withdrawal Form to the Student Affairs Office, may
remain on the class roll, and may be assigned a grade of "F" by the instructor.
Students, who officially withdraw from Louisiana Technical College on or before the last date to withdraw will receive a
grade of ("W") in each enrolled course. The course and grade of "W" will be posted to the student's permanent record but
will not be included in the calculation of the semester/session or cumulative grade point average. Withdrawal from the
College may impact their financial aid and other (e.g. insurance coverage) status.
Procedures
A student, who finds it necessary to withdraw from the college, should begin the process by securing the proper forms
from the Student Affairs Office. Please note the refund policy and deadline date as listed in the Academic Calendar.
To withdraw from the College, a student must:
• Print and complete a copy of the College Withdrawal Form
• Sign and date the form
• Have the form signed by the Department Head or Instructor
• Have the form signed by Financial Aid Officer
• Submit the completed form to the Student Affairs Office
A student is not officially withdrawn from the college until the request is received in the Student Affairs Office.
Administrative withdrawals are allowed in emergency situations.
Policy Reference:
LTC Policy # IS1930.195 Withdrawal from College
Return of Title IV Funds 1998 HEA, PL 105-244 SFA Handbook 20022003,
Return of Title IV Funds LTC Form IS100.47
Original Adoption: June 1, 2007
Effective Date: December 18, 2025
Last Revision Date: November 3, 2025
Cancellation:
Functional Division: Academic Affairs
Policy 1.020
Academic Status
PURPOSE
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) has determined that the academic status of a student is a general indication of the student's eligibility to remain in school. It may affect a student's eligibility for financial aid, scholarships, special insurance rates, work-study programs, and other student activities.
SCOPE
This policy applies to all students enrolled in credit courses at Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC).
POLICY
Academic Status Categories:
I. Good Standing: Being in "good standing" is defined as having an adjusted cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.0 or higher on all coursework attempted at NLTCC.
II. Warning: Being on academic warning is defined as having an adjusted cumulative GPA below 2.0 on all coursework attempted at NLTCC.
III. Not Good Standing: Being in "not good standing" results in academic suspension and is defined as having an adjusted cumulative GPA below 2.0 on all coursework attempted at NLTCC.
The academic status of each student will be determined at the end of each semester or summer session according to the specific criteria contained in this policy.
Academic Status for NLTCC Students Enrolled in Credit Courses
Good Standing: Good Academic Standing
I. A student who has an adjusted cumulative grade point average of 2.0 (C) or higher on all course work completed at Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College is considered to be in good academic standing. A 2.0 average occurs when the number of quality points is twice the number of quality hours attempted.
Warning: Academic Probation
I. A student will be placed on academic probation when their adjusted cumulative GPA is below a 2.0 (A=4.0). The statement "Academic Probation" will be placed on the student's permanent academic record.
II. Once on probation, a student will remain on probation until the adjusted cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher is achieved.
It is recommended that students on academic probation utilize WorkReadyU for academic remediation to support their progress and improve their academic standing.
Not Good Standing: Academic Suspension
I. A student on academic probation will be suspended from the institution for one semester at the conclusion of any semester or summer session in which he/she fails to earn an adjusted cumulative GPA of 2.0. The statement "Academic Suspension" will be placed on the student's permanent academic record.
II. A student who is suspended at the end of the fall semester must remain out of school for the spring semester. A student who is suspended at the end of the spring semester may attend the summer session. If the student raises their adjusted cumulative GPA to 2.0 during the summer session, the student may attend the fall semester. If the adjusted cumulative GPA remains below 2.0, or if the student does not attend the summer session, the student is suspended for the fall semester.
III. A student may appeal to attend the College during his/her suspension semester. The appeal must be in writing to the Academic Appeals Committee on the student's home campus.
IV. A student who has been academically suspended may reenter NLTCC under academic probation.
V. A student who has been placed on academic suspension and achieved an adjusted cumulative GPA of 2.0 for the semester following reinstatement must maintain at least an adjusted cumulative GPA 2.0 in each subsequent semester of attendance until they achieve an adjusted cumulative GPA of 2.0. Failure to make an adjusted cumulative GPA of 2.0 in any subsequent semester before the adjusted cumulative GPA 2.0 grade point average is achieved will result in another one semester suspension.
Students placed on academic suspension may continue to utilize WorkReadyU for academic remediation during their suspension period.
Academic Status in Specific Majors
Faculty in a given major may, with the approval of the Chief Academic Officer of the College, establish and publish higher academic standards for admission, continuation and/or reentry to the major.
Academic Status of Transfer Students
A student who is on probation and who has an adjusted cumulative GPA average below 2.0 at their previous institution will enter NLTCC on probation. At the end of their first semester at NLTCC, the student will be suspended if they do not achieve an adjusted cumulative GPA of 2.0 for the semester. The student will be placed in good academic standing if their adjusted cumulative GPA is 2.0 or higher.
Admission of Students Academically Suspended/Dismissed from Regionally Accredited Institutions
I. Except as specified in section III and IV below, a student who has been academically suspended/dismissed from a regionally accredited institution is not admissible to NLTCC until their suspension period has expired.
II. A student who has been academically suspended or dismissed from a regionally accredited institution may appeal in writing to the Academic Appeals Committee for permission to enroll at NLTCC during their period of suspension.
III. A student who has been academically suspended or dismissed from any institution who has an adjusted cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher may, upon the recommendation of the Academic Appeals Committee, be admitted in good academic standing in no more than 15 credit hours in the returning semester.
IV. A student who has an adjusted cumulative GPA below 2.0 is allowed to take academic remediation courses through WorkReadyU.
Credits earned by a student while on suspension may or may not be accepted toward a degree, diploma, and/or certificate. Individual colleges and universities determine whether students will be awarded credit for courses taken while on suspension or dismissal. Therefore, all students on suspension/dismissal should confer with transfer institutions prior to enrolling at the NLTCC to determine specific college/university regulations.
Definitions
Quality Hours: Quality hours are those credit hours for which a student registers and receives a grade of A – F. Credit courses for which a student receives a grade of "P," "CR" and "S" are included in earned hours, but not quality hours. Courses for which students register, but later withdraw with a grade of "W" are included in attempted hours, but not quality hours.
Cumulative Quality Hours: Cumulative quality hours are all hours for which a student has registered and has received a final grade of A – F at the college as well as all quality hours accepted in transfer (including hours that would have been accepted had the student not earned a grade of F).
Adjusted Cumulative Grade Point Average: This GPA is adjusted to exclude those quality hours and grades which have been removed from the calculation of a student's grade point average through a repeat/delete policy and/or Academic Renewal. This adjusted cumulative grade point average will include grades earned at the home institution and is used to determine a student's academic status.
Review Process: Provide/edit example table below to document review process and all reviewing entities.
Reviewing Council/EntityReview DateEffective Date
Chancellor’s Executive Cabinet11/3/2025
Policy Review Committee11/5/2025
Faculty Senate12/17/2025
Chancellor’s Final Approval12/18/2025
Policy Reference: LCTCS Policy #1.020, Academic Status
Forms Referenced:
Form 1.020a – NLTCC Academic Probation Notification
Form 1.020b – NLTCC Academic Suspension Notification
Form 1.020c – NLTCC Academic Probation Status Change Notification
Distribution:
Distributed Electronically via College’s website
Hard Copy Distributed to Chancellor’s Assistant
Policy Name: Curriculum Development/Revision
Policy Number: 1.024
Effective Date: June 1, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community (NLTCC) defines the curriculum revisions process and follows Louisiana
Community and Technical College System (LCTCS) Participatory Curriculum Development Policy. This policy applies
to all NLTCC campuses.
133.1 SCOPE
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community (NLTCC) will follow Louisiana Community and Technical College
System (LCTCS) Participatory Curriculum Development Policy.
133.2 DEFINITIONS
All credential options (exit options) must follow the minimum credit hour limitations and definitions established
by the Louisiana Board of Regents.
133.2.1
133.2.2
133.2.3
133.2.4
Associate of Applied Science (AAS) — An applied/academic degree program (60-72 credit hours)
with a limited general education component core (15 hours), primarily designed to prepare students
for immediate employment or career entry. AAS degrees can be formed by combining a TD program
with 15 hours of required general education or can be a distinct curriculum unrelated to any
preexisting program of technical studies. All general education coursework must meet SACS/COC
requirements. If technical coursework required of the degree is intended for transfer to a four-year
institution, this coursework must meet appropriate SACS/COC requirements. AAS degrees are limited
to technical colleges, community colleges, and two-year transfer institutions. Approval authority for
implementation of an AAS degree shall reside with the Board of Regents.
Certificate of Technical Studies (CTS) — An applied, technical program, (21-33 credit hours) that
combines multiple TCAs to provide a student with a broad technical competency forms CTS
programs. CTS programs are strictly limited to technical and community colleges. Approval for
implementation of a CTS program shall reside with the appropriate management board; however, the
establishment of such programs must be immediately reported to the Board of Regents. All other
Regents requirements governing academic programs shall apply.
Crosswalk — The process and documentation or matrix that aligns the equivalent course(s) from an
old curriculum to the course(s) in the new curriculum.
Technical Competency Area (TCA) — An applied course or series of courses (1-12 credit hours) that
provides a student with a specific technical competency. TCAs are strictly limited to technical and
community colleges. Approval authority for implementation of a TCA shall reside within the
appropriate management board or their designated staff.
133.2.5
Technical Diploma (TD) — An applied, technical degree program (45-60 credit hours). Combining
multiple CTSs and/or TCAs forms TD programs. TD programs are strictly limited to technical and
community colleges. Approval authority for implementation of a TD program shall reside with the
appropriate management board; however, the establishment of such programs must be immediately
reported to the Board of Regents. All other Regents requirements governing academic programs shall
apply.
133.3 CURRICULUM COMMITTEE
133.3.1 An NLTCC Curriculum Committee will be established to represent each occupational
program/discipline, general education, allied health core, developmental education, and electronic
learning division. All faculty, in like disciplines, designated academic officers, secondary faculty
when appropriate, business and industry, college administration, and the management board will have
the opportunity for input in curriculum development.
133.3.2
133.3.3
133.3.4
133.3.5
133.3.6
133.3.7
133.3.8
The focus Of the Curriculum Committees is to ensure the accuracy and consistency Of curriculum,
e.g. program names, program descriptions, course titles, course descriptions, course clock hours,
course credit hours, course competencies/objectives etc.
A Curriculum Committee will be composed of one voting faculty member from the discipline per
region in which the program/discipline is offered. Multiple faculty representatives from a college will
be appointed when a program is not offered in two or more districts.
It is the responsibility of each Curriculum Committee member to seek input from constituents, e.g.
other faculty, and advisory board members. Curriculum Committee members are encouraged to utilize
email, fax, telephone, etc. when possible to avoid costly travel and absence from the classroom.
Curriculum Committees will be responsible for the development of sample semesterby-semester
curriculum outlines for each exit option to ensure that curriculum can be completed in a two-year
period. Special attention should be given to insure the greatest benefit to students for financial aid.
Curriculum Committees will develop Competencies/Objectives for each course syllabus.
Curriculum Committees will insure that program Curriculum Outlines and Course Syllabi are in
agreement; e.g. course names, course abbreviations, course numbers, hours, etc.
Curriculum Committee input will be solicited at least annually. Academic officers will provide
leadership and oversight to the Committee.
133.3.9 A Curriculum Committee Chair will be elected or appointed for each committee.
133.3.9.1 The Curriculum Committee Chair is a non-supervisory position and will be the primary
liaison between the Curriculum Committee Members and other stakeholders in the
curriculum development process.
133.3.9.2 Requested revisions will be sent through the Curriculum Committee Chair for member
consensus and adoption, by ballot vote, prior to submission to the respective academic officer.
133.4 REQUIREMENTS
133.4.1 Curricula will be based on industry standards and advice from occupational advisory committees in
each program area.
133.4.2
133.4.3
133.4.4
133.4.5
Curriculum revision/changes, if made, will become effective in the fall semester.
Curriculum for new programs or for new options within existing programs will be reviewed and
adopted by Curriculum Committees that are affected prior to implementation.
Conversion of clock hours to credit hours must follow the minimum standards set by the institutional
accrediting body, COE:
15 clock hours of lecture
30 clock hours of lab
45 clock hours of work-based activities
= 1 credit hour
= 1 credit hour
= 1 credit hour
All programs may include work experience components (cooperative education/practicum courses)
and other special projects components as elective courses.
133.4.6 All programs at the diploma level or higher will include a computer literacy
(Introduction to Computers), workplace readiness course (Job Seeking Skills), and an orientation
course (Freshman Seminar) or occupational orientation, with the exception of PN program.
133.4.7
Courses start and end within a semester, summer session, intersession, and/or a typical session.
133.4.8 All new students and students with a break of enrollment for one academic semester will follow the
curriculum that is active on the date of enrollment/reenrollment in a specific program/declared major.
A crosswalk should be created to match courses from the old curriculum to the new curriculum. All
previous courses will be cross walked to the new curriculum. Faculty should evaluate and determine
competencies of each continuing student and match the competencies with the new curriculum. When
it is not possible to match a course from the old curriculum to the new, a justification for substitution
must be utilized to make up the credit hour deficiency. The crosswalk must be approved and sent to the
Records Office where it will be included in the student file for graduation clearance.
133.4.9
Historical Note: Credit hour courses completed prior to Fall Semester 2002 will be entered on the
student's transcript once competencies have been evaluated, Clock hour courses completed previous to
Fall Semester, 2002 will be included on the legacy transcript.
133.5 PROGRAM TRANSFERS WITHIN A REGION
Process for Transfer of one Program from one campus to another within a Region:
133.5.1
133.5.2
Each Region must submit a request letter and proposal to the LCTCS Vice President of CTE in which
the program transfer from one campus to another within its Region is justified. Required details
include physical facilities, faculty/staff, and budget. The BOR Guidelines for New program proposal
are available at this BOR website address: http://asa.regents.state.Ia.us/PP/Guidelines/I. A program
transfer will be described as a Program Expansion on the request forms.
The Vice President for CTE submits the proposal to the LCTCS Board for review/approval.
133.5.3 For programs at the CTS level or above, the LCTCS Vice President for CTE forwards its approved
proposals to the Board of Regents (BOR) for review/approval.
133.5.4 Once approved, the BOR completes the removal/addition of the program to the CRIN for respective
campuses within the Region.
133.5.5 By Letter to COE, each Region will present its notification of program approval and request that COE
update its respective COE Program Inventory (ies).
133.6 NEW PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT FOR A REGION
Process for Development of and Request for a Program to be offered within a Region:
133.6.1 Each College must submit a request letter and proposal to the LCTCS Vice President of CTE for
review and approval. The request for a program begins with the preparation by a Region Of the Board
of Regents Packet (Guidelines for New program proposal) available at
http://asa.regents.state.la.us/PP/Guidelines/l. The request will be described as PROGRAM
EXPANSION if the program being requested already exists as an NLTCC program. The request will
be described as a NEW PROGRAM if the program being requested does not currently exist in the
LTC program inventory.
133.6.2 The LCTCS Vice President for CTE submits the proposal to the LCTCS Board for review/approval.
133.6.3 For programs at the CTS level or above, the LCTCS Vice President for CTE forwards its approved
proposals to the Board of Regents (BOR) for review/approval.
133.6.4 Once approved, the BOR completes the addition of the program to the CRIN for the respective
campus within the Region.
133.6.5 By Letter to COE, each Region will present its notification of program approval and request that COE
update its COE Program Inventory.
133.7 FLOW CHART FOR UPDATING LTC CURRICULUM
LTC Faculty > Curriculum Committee Members > Curriculum Committee Chair > Lead Academic Officer of the
Program > Academic/student Affairs Council > LCTCS Vice President for CTE > Curriculum Data Entry Operator
TIMELINES ACTIONS — Timeline is dependent upon necessary Board and Agency Approvals.
Sept 1 - Nov 1
(Fall Semester)
Faculty Input: Faculty members submit proposals (and forms) to their Region
Representative of the Curriculum Committee for their program area. Forms must have
appropriate signatures.
Nov 1- Feb 1 Curriculum Committee Meetings: Curriculum Committee members must
communicate with the Curriculum Committee Chair from each program area to review
proposed updates and forms, to ensure their relevance, and to address any conflicts
among various proposals. Minutes of meetings and votes on proposals must be
documented. The Lead Academic Officer/SME for the program will provide guidance
during meetings.
By Feb 15 Submission of Proposals: Curriculum Committee Chairs must submit all
committee-approved proposals and required signature forms to the Lead Academic
Officer/SME for the program area.
By Feb 30
By Apr 1
Communication with Regional Directors: Lead Academic Officers/SMEs forward
synopsis to Vice President for CTE for his submission to the Regional Directors.
LTC Academic & Student Affairs Council Meeting: Lead Academic Officers for
program areas will submit all curriculum proposals and signed forms for
consideration/policy check.
By May 1
Review & Approval by Vice President of CTE is completed: Academic & Student
Affairs Council submits proposals and signed forms to the Vice President for CTE for
review and approval. "Add New Course" forms will also be submitted when
By May 15
appropriate.
Curriculum is Updated in CIS: The Vice President for CTE submits all approved
proposals and signed forms to the Curriculum Data Entry Operator for input into
Curriculum Information Systems (CIS). Originals of curriculum revision
proposals/forms are filed with this LCTCS Office.
By May 30
Viewing of Curriculum Updates in CIS: Academic Officers/SMEs and Committee
chairs proof CIS.
Reporting of Problems: Curriculum Committee Chair* Lead Academic Officer
Curriculum Data Entry Operator
By June 15
Final Edits: Curriculum Data Entry Operator will research and correct problems that
are not consistent with approved proposals and forms. CIS will then be frozen.
Note: Only those updates that do not require board approvals can be moved from CIS
to the
ITC production systems (Itc.edu and Student Course Enrollment System) for
implementation in the upcoming Fall.
By Sept 30
Board and Agency Approvals/Notification.
1. Vice President for CTE will obtain any additional required approvals (LCTCS
Board & Board of Regents).
2. Upon Board approvals, Vice President for CTE communicates with COE, as
required.
3. Upon receipt of updated COE program inventories, notifications are made to
PELL and VA, as required.
By June 15
The curriculum is moved from CIS to the appropriate LTC production systems
(www.ltc.edu and the appropriate Student Course Enrollment System). Implementation
will become effective the upcoming fall.
Policy Reference:
LTC Policy # IS1930.133 Curriculum Development/Revision
Louisiana Board of Regents (BOR)
Council on Education (COE)
LCTCS Policy 1.034 Participatory Curriculum Development
LTC Form #IS100.1 Add a New Course
LTC Form #IS100.11 Curriculum Revision Justification
LTC Form #IS100.12 Curriculum Revision Proposal
Policy Name: Title IV Federal Financial Assistance
Policy Number: 1.026
Effective Date: August 29, 2014
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Title IV Federal Financial Assistance: Satisfactory Academic Progress Standards
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College administers aid in accordance with the LCTCS Policy
1.026 as described in this policy.
The United States Department of Education mandates that students maintain satisfactory academic progress (SAP) toward
completion of their degrees within a reasonable period of time to be eligible for Title IV financial aid programs, including
Pell, Federal SEOG, Federal Work Study, and Federal Direct Student Loans. As such, federal guidelines require that each
institution establish a satisfactory academic progress (SAP) policy that includes a quantitative component, a qualitative
component, and a time frame; and that such policy be at least as strict as the policy the institution applies to a student who
is not receiving Title IV assistance. The policy must also explain how a student can regain financial aid eligibility after
having it revoked, through an appeal procedure or otherwise. Students must be made aware of the applicable SAP policy
when aid is awarded.
To monitor the satisfactory academic progress (SAP) of students applying for or receiving Title IV funds, all colleges
comprising the Louisiana Community and Technical College System (LCTCS) will use the following measures, effective
with the SAP evaluations occurring at the end of fall 2017, but no later than the spring 2018 semester:
(1) Grade point average- Achieving and maintaining at least a 2.00 grade point average.
(2) Pace of progression- Passing a required number of hours (67% of all hours attempted)
(3) Maximum timeframe- Total overall hours must not exceed 150% of the published length of a student's degree
program.
In addition, effective with the SAP evaluations occurring at the end of fall 2017 (but no later than the spring 2018 semester),
ail LCTCS colleges will evaluate satisfactory academic progress for all students at the end of each payment period and
communicate with students in writing, via email, applying for or receiving Title IV funds. A payment period is the period
of enrollment established by a college for which tuition and fees are charged and financial aid is disbursed.
All calculations will be based upon the cumulative academic record as transcribed by the college at the time of SAP
evaluation.
Qualitative Standard/Cumulative GPA
The qualitative standard is the student's cumulative grade point average (GPA). The qualitative standard requires that a
student achieve no less than a cumulative GPA of 2.00 at the end of each payment period. The cumulative academic
record as transcribed by the college (including grades received at the college as well as transfer grades transcribed by the
institution for attempted coursework) will be included in the cumulative GPA calculation. A student's cumulative grade
point average will be calculated based upon all courses on the student's transcript- passed, failed, courses from which the
student withdrew (officially or unofficially), repeated, and non-credit remedial/developmental coursework. The
cumulative GPA calculation will not be rounded.
Quantitative Standard/Pace of Progression
In calculating the quantitative standard, the college will measure the "pace" at which the student is progressing. This is
calculated by dividing the cumulative hours completed by the total cumulative hours attempted then rounding, if
necessary, to the nearest whole number (e.g., 0.667 would be rounded to 67%). All students not on an academic plan (see
below) must pass 67 percent of all overall hours attempted. All courses passed, all courses failed, courses from which the
student withdrew (officially or unofficially), repeated courses, courses for which the student received an incomplete, and
non-credit remedial/developmental coursework will be considered in the calculation, even if the student did not receive
financial aid.
Maximum Allowable Attempted Hours
Students may receive financial aid if they have attempted no more than 150% of the hours required to complete their
program of study. The maximum timeframe will be calculated by multiplying the total number of hours required for a given
program of study by 1.50. For example, if 60 credit hours are required to complete the program, the maximum allowable
attempted hours for the degree is 90 (60 hours x 1.50= 90).
For both native and transfer students, hours attempted includes all hours pursued, received, withdrawn, and failed. All of
these hours are counted as attempted even if the student did not receive federal financial aid. All calculations will be based
upon the cumulative academic record as transcribed by the college at the time of SAP evaluation.
Other Factors Which May Impact a SAP Determination
“I Grades”
“I” (incomplete) grades could have an adverse effect on the student's ability to maintain satisfactory academic progress.
An "l" grade will be considered "attempted," but will not be considered to have been "completed." It is the student's
responsibility to inform the Financial Aid Office if an "I" grade changes during a payment period. If the change of the
grade will affect the student’s financial aid eligibility, the Financial Aid Office will perform a recalculation of aid
eligibility during the payment period. Otherwise, the change of grade will not be factored into the cumulative pace rate
until the next SAP evaluation.
Developmental/Remedial Courses
The maximum number of hours that a student may receive Title IV federal aid for developmental/remedial courses is
30 hours. For SAP purposes, development courses will count as attempted hours, completed hours, and grades received,
even if federal financial aid is not received for these courses.
Withdrawals
"W" (withdrawn) grades could have an adverse effect on the student's ability to maintain satisfactory academic progress.
A "W" grade will be considered "attempted," but will not be considered to have been "completed."
Academic Renewal
Academic renewal does not affect or alter the student's financial aid records for purposes of determining financial aid
eligibility. All hours attempted and grades received will continue to be counted for purposes of federal financial aid and
satisfactory academic progress.
Transfer Students
Transfer students are required to meet the same standards as native students in order to receive federal financial aid. All
transfer students shall initially be coded "TRANS" until the end of the first payment period when they are evaluated for
SAP. At the time of the SAP evaluation only transfer credits transcribed by the college will be counted (as both attempted
and completed hours) in the cumulative GPA, pace of progression, and maximum allowable hours components of the
SAP determination.
First-time Freshmen
All first-time freshmen are considered to be meeting SAP upon enrollment. For SAP purposes, students with no prior post
secondary experience who are enrolling for the first time at the undergraduate level are first-time freshmen. Prior post
secondary experience does NOT include (1) credit received before earning a high school diploma (or equivalent), (2) credit
received for completing tests or assessments, or (3) credit for life experience or military service. However, credit received
prior to earning a high school diploma (or equivalent), credit received as the result of completing any tests or assessments,
or credit for life experience or military service — that is transcribed by the college will be considered starting with the
SAP calculation performed at the conclusion of the first payment period following enrollment as a first-time freshman.
Repeated Courses
A student who has received a failing grade in a required course at the college may repeat the course, pursuant to the
college's policy on repeating courses. For the purposes of SAP, required courses that are failed and repeated multiple
times will count toward a student's hours attempted, hours completed, and grades received. Also pursuant to federal
regulations, a student may only receive federal financial aid for one repetition (repeat) of any previously passed course.
All repeated courses will be included in the total attempted hours for SAP evaluation.
Change of Major
Students who change their major are still expected to complete the coursework for the new major within the maximum
allowable hours. All attempted hours from a prior major will be included in the total attempted hours. If a change in major
results in a student not meeting SAP, the student may submit a SAP appeal that, if granted, will allow the student to continue
receiving aid while under an academic plan.
Second Degree
A student who completes his/her degree then pursues a second degree at the same level (i.e., a student with an Associate's
Degree who begins a new program to earn a second Associate's Degree) is still expected to complete the coursework for
the second degree within the maximum allowable hours. All attempted hours from the previous degree at the same level
will be included in the total attempted hours. If pursuing a second degree at the same level results in a student not meeting
SAP, the student may submit a SAP appeal that, if granted, will allow the student to continue receiving aid while under an
academic plan.
Pass/Non-Pass Grades
Pass/Non-pass grades will not impact the cumulative GPA component of a SAP determination. However, they will be
included in the pace of progression and maximum allowable hours components.
Re Establishing Eligibility
A student who is not making satisfactory academic progress may choose not to submit an appeal. If this is the case, the
student will not be eligible to receive federal financial aid until he or she is in compliance with all components of the SAP
policy. Not enrolling in college for a period of time then re-enrolling will not bring the student into compliance with the
SAP policy. The student will need to attend classes without federal financial aid at his/her own expense until he/she is
once again in compliance with the policy. This may take several payment periods to accomplish, but it will be the
responsibility of the student to improve his/her academic performance during this time. A student may request his/her
academic record be reviewed by the Financial Aid Office. If the student is found to be in compliance, eligibility for
federal financial aid can be reestablished.
The SAP Review Process
Satisfactory academic progress will be reviewed at the end of each payment period by the college's Financial Aid
Department for all students, and students who received aid the previous semester (payment period) will be notified of
their updated status, in writing, via email.
Status Codes
All LCTCS colleges will use the following codes to comply with this policy:
NEW student is attending college for the first time, this includes students who received credit (1) before earning a high
school diploma (or equivalent), (2) for completing tests or assessments, or (3) for life experience or military
service
TRANS student is enrolling in the college for the first time and has previously attended another postsecondary institution.
GOOD student meets all three standards and is eligible to receive federal financial aid
WARN student failed to meet at least one of the standards at the end of the previous payment period and the student was
in "good" or U new" standing during that previous payment period
APLAN student failed to meet SAP, was granted an appeal, is placed on an Academic Plan
BAD student is not meeting SAP and is not eligible to receive federal financial aid for the next payment period of
enrollment
Communications
LCTCS colleges have the autonomy to develop BANNER user defined fields that can be utilized to customize
communications to students regarding SAP status and the SAP appeal process.
Academic Plan
An Academic Plan is specifically designed for a student who does not meet at least one of the standards at the end of the
previous payment period and who's Financial Aid Appeal has been granted. The requirements within the Academic Plan
must be met to regain eligibility. Students will need to meet the standards of the Academic Plan each payment period
until meeting the SAP standards. Not enrolling in college for a period of time then re-enrolling will not bring the student
into compliance with the SAP policy and may require the student's academic plan to be re-adjusted.
At minimum, the Academic Plan will require that the student do the following:
1. Earn a GPA of 2.00 each payment period
2. Pass 75 percent of all hours attempted each payment period
Individual LCTCS colleges may require students to meet additional requirements, such as taking specific courses and/or
meeting with academic advisors.
Appeals
Students who do not meet SAP standards have the right to submit an appeal to the college's Financial Aid Appeals
Committee. Appeals must be submitted by the college's established deadlines, which should be published on the college's
website. Appeals are typically based upon mitigating circumstances such as prolonged illness, accidents that required
hospitalization of the student or a close family member, death of an immediate family member, or other extreme
documented incidents. All appeals must include documentation that: (1) substantiates claims being made in the appeal and
(2) demonstrates a change in current circumstances, making academic success likely if the appeal is granted. Appeals can
only be made once per payment period.
If an appeal is approved, the student will be placed on an Academic Plan. The student will then be evaluated at the end of
each payment period based on that plan.
SAP appeal decisions are final and cannot be overridden. If an appeal is denied, the student is not eligible for federal aid
and must attend at their own expense until (1) the student meets the academic standards as outlined in the SAP policy or
(2) the student successfully appeals and is approved to be placed on an academic plan in a future payment period.
Original Adoption: 7/7/2025
Effective Date: 7/7/2025
Last Revision Date:
Cancellation:
Functional Division: Academics
Academic Freedom, Rights, and Responsibilities
PURPOSE
The purpose of this policy is to define and protect the principles of academic freedom, articulate the rights and responsibilities of academic faculty, and ensure a learning environment of intellectual integrity, open inquiry, and mutual respect that support the college’s mission.
SCOPE
This policy applies to all academic faculty at NLTCC
POLICY
Academic Freedom
To promote high-quality technical and professional education, Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College supports the principle of academic freedom. Academic faculty have the right, within their area of teaching, to encourage student inquiry, technical problem-solving, and open discussion of ideas relevant to assigned curriculum. Faculty are entitled to freedom in classroom discussion of their subject but must avoid introducing topics or opinions not related to the instructional program.
Academic Rights
Academic faculty are entitled to:
Teach, discuss, create and present material freely within the scope of their instructional area, supporting students' mastery of technical and professional competencies.
Participate in developing instructional policies, curriculum, and program improvements in their departments and through shared governance processes.
Academic Responsibilities
NLTCC also recognizes that commitment to every freedom carries responsibilities. The faculty member must fulfill his responsibility to his profession, industry, students, and the college by demonstrating academic and industry standard competence, and professional discretion.
Academic faculty must balance freedom with responsibility by:
Maintaining up-to-date technical knowledge and workplace competence relevant to their teaching assignments and the needs of local industry.
Using professional judgment when selecting course materials and conducting class discussions, ensuring content is tied to curriculum objectives and student preparation for employment.
Refraining from presenting personal beliefs or unrelated controversies as part of instruction and avoiding compelling students to adopt any specific point of view.
Demonstrating ethical behavior, professional discretion, and respect for students, colleagues, industry partners, and the college’s mission.
Clearly distinguishing between personal opinions and official positions of the college in any public communication.
Institutional Integrity
Academic freedom at Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College is exercised within the framework of the college’s mission to deliver workforce-focused, technical, and professional education. At no time will the principle of academic freedom prevent the college from ensuring the best possible curriculum and instruction for all students in accordance with the mission of the institution.
Policy Reference: LCTCS Policy #1.044
Forms Referenced: NA
Distribution:
Distributed Electronically via College’s website
Hard Copy Distributed to Chancellor’s Secretary
Policy Name: Student Change in Course Load
Policy Number: 1.048
Effective Date: June 1, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Student Change in Course Load Policy
When a student's change in course load results in a net change in Tuition and Fees producing a credit to the student's
account, NLTCC's Refund Policy 5.022 shall apply which states:
Tuition and fees are assessed to all who enroll at the Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC). This
policy covers refunds of tuition, fees, and other charges in the event the College cancels a class, or a student withdraws
from a class or resigns from the College.
A student who resigns from the College may be entitled to some refund of tuition. The amount of the refund, if any, will
depend upon the amounts paid by the student and the date of withdrawal.
The College will first apply refunds to outstanding obligations of the student and then any remaining funds will be
returned to the student. At the time of withdrawal, students are responsible for any unpaid portion of their accounts and
for any other obligations to the College. At no time, will the amount refunded exceed the amount paid by the student.
All refunds shall be made according to this policy and schedule and in accordance with any applicable federal guidelines.
Unless otherwise provided by federal guidelines, governing the return to Title IV Funds (Federal Financial Aid), the
refund schedule shall not provide for a refund after the official 14th class day for the fall/spring semester or equivalent for
the summer semester, or alternative sessions.
GENERAL POLICY & PROCEDURE
Refunds may be subject to an administrative fee of $15 per refund transaction (regardless of the number of credit
hours dropped or upon withdrawal from the College).
Refunds, when due, will be made within 30 days of (I) the withdrawal date as documented on the
Drop/Add/Reinstatement form or (2) the date the institution determines the student has withdrawn.
Fees are non-refundable.
If the College cancels a class, then 100% of all tuition and fees paid will be refunded and an administrative fee
will not be assessed.
In accordance with the Council on Occupational Education requirements, students who have not visited the
school facility prior to enrollment can withdraw within three days following either attendance at an orientation or
a tour of the school facilities and receive a full refund of all tuition and fees paid.
REFUND POLICY
Refund of tuition for the fall and spring semesters is made on the following basis upon a reduction in credit hours
or official withdrawal from the College:
Prior to the 1st day of class:
1st-7th day for each parts of term:
100% of tuition and
fees
100% of tuition and
fees
On or beyond the 8th day for each parts of term, no refund will be given.
NOTE: In accordance with Title IV of the Higher Education Act Amendments, refunds of tuition and fees for Pell Grant
recipients shall be made to the Pell Grant program and not to the student.
CONTINUING EDUCATION AND BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY TRAINING
Tuition, fees, and other charges relating to Continuing Education and Business and Industry Training are not
refundable unless the training course is canceled by the College.
REFUNDS TO OUTSIDE AGENCIES
Tuition paid by an outside agency will not be refunded to the student. The agency must contact the Office of
Student Affairs within the refund period. In accordance with Title IV of the Higher Education Amendments,
refunds of tuition and fees for Pell Grant recipients shall be made to the Pell Grant program and not to the
student.
SUSPENSION REFUNDS
If a student is suspended within the refund period, the student will be refunded according to the refund schedule.
PROCEDURE FOR RECEIVNG REFIND OF TUITION
Students can expedite the handling of tuition refunds by completing forms in the Office of Student Services of
each campus. After completion and approval of the necessary forms, a check will be requested from the Chief
Finance Officer and will be mailed to the student's residence within 45 working days.
REFUND APPEALS PROCESS
Pursuant to the Louisiana Community and Technical College System Policy # 5.007, a formal appeals process
shall be in place for hearing complaints due to denial of all or part of a student's refund. Each Director will
appoint members to form a Tuition Refund Committee for their Region. The Regional committee members will
be appointed for a minimum term of one academic year. Each Region is responsible for establishing written
procedures for a fair and consistent evaluation of refund appeals. Each Region should keep the documentation
regarding each appeal. Each Region is responsible for notifying students of Committee decisions within seven
days of the decision.
Criteria for Appeals
Personal Emergencies:
Death of the student or death in the student's immediate family (parent, sibling, offspring, spouse). Next
of kin may file an appeal for a deceased student.
Medical incapacitation
Administrative errors
Military Duty - orders must accompany appeal. In accordance with the Higher Education Relief Opportunities
for Students Act of 2003 of the United States Congress (H.R. 1412), students who are called to active duty or
active service are entitled to a full refund of all tuition and fees.
Ignorance of the drop/add dates for refunds is not an acceptable justification for an appeal.
Process
If a student feels he or she has an extenuating circumstance, which justifies an exception to the refund policy, he
or she may appeal to the Tuition Refund Committee in the following manner:
Complete and submit a Refund Appeal Form to the Chief Academic Officer within 60 days from the end
of the semester and/or session in which the class was offered.
Attach all relevant documentation.
Tuition Refund Committee Rules
Appeals received after the 60-day deadline will not be considered.
Appeals received without the proper documentation and form will not be considered.
Appeals must be made by the student. Appeals made 'i on behalf of" a student will not be reviewed unless the
student is deceased.
The Tuition Refund Committee does not take phone calls. All appeals must be submitted in writing.
The decision of the Tuition Refund Committee is final.
Policy Reference:
NLTCC Policy 5.022
LTC Policy #IS100.48 Student Change in Course Load
Louisiana Technical College Policy No. IS100.48
LTC Policy IS100.47 Student Withdrawal from College
Policy Name: Academic Diplomas Policy and Procedures Memorandum
Policy Number: 1.100
Effective Date: June 1, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Academic Diplomas Policy and Procedures Memorandum
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) issues diplomas (document received) to students who
have completed the general and program-specific requirements for Board-of-Regents approved, two-year Associate of
Applied Science (AAS) degree programs (award posted to the transcript). Technical Diplomas (TD) are issued to
students who have completed the technical program specific requirements for Board-of-Regents approved programs.
Certificates of Technical Studies (CTS) are issued to students who have completed the general and program-specific
requirements for Board-of-Regents-approved, one year Certificate programs. These requirements are contained in the
curriculum in effect when the student enrolls, changes majors, or graduates.
No other document/award issued by any unit of the College will be identified as a "diploma" or a "certificate." Awards
and acknowledgements of completion of other credit course work, such as Career and Technical Certificate (CTC)
validation; non-credit course work, or programs offered in cooperation with other agencies will be issued in accordance
with this memorandum.
PURPOSE
To define the types of awards to be issued to students upon completion of the various academic programs
offered by Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC).
SCOPE AND APPLICABILITY
This policy and procedures memorandum applies to all campuses and organizational units of Northwest
Louisiana Technical Community College.
100.4 TYPE OF AWARDS
100.4.1 Diplomas and Certificates for Programs Approved by the Board of Regents
Diplomas will be issued to students who have completed the Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Degree and Technical Diploma programs. Certificates will be issued to students who have completed
the Certificate of Technical Studies (CTS) programs. No other document issued by a unit of the College
shall be identified as a "diploma" or a "certificate."
100.4.1.1 Diplomas and Certificates will be signed by the Campus Administrator and will be printed
with the signatures of the Chancellor, the President of the System, and Chairman of the Board
of Supervisors.
100.4.1.2 Diplomas and certificates will be presented during commencement exercises.
100.4.1.3 The Registrar and/or Student Affairs Office shall be responsible for verifying students'
completion of program requirements and will maintain the official records of all diplomas and
certificates awarded for the campus.
100.4.2 Acknowledgements of Completion
Acknowledgements of completion will be issued to students who have completed College-approved
programs that have not been sanctioned by the Board of Regents.
100.4.2.1 Acknowledgements Based on NLTCC Credit Course Work
Any acknowledgement of the completion of a credit course or group of courses constituting
mastery of a Career and Technical Certificate (CTC) will be verified by the Registrar and/or
campus Student Affairs Office before the acknowledgement is issued.
These acknowledgements of completion will be signed by the Campus Administrator and will
be printed with the signature Of the Chancellor. Appropriate documentation of program
completion will be maintained in the student's permanent academic record. These students may
apply for and participate in graduation ceremonies.
100.4.2.2 Acknowledgements of Completion of Programs Offered in Cooperation with Other Agencies
Acknowledgements of the completion of programs offered in cooperation with external
agencies will clearly indicate the name of both the outside agency and Northwest Louisiana
Technical Community College; the number of semester hours of credit course work, and the
number of clock hours of noncredit instruction included in the program if needed. Titles of the
programs will be descriptive and will not be the same as Board of Regents' approved degree,
diploma, or certificate programs.
These acknowledgements of completion will be signed by the Instructor and the Campus
Administrator. The Student Affairs Office will be provided with a list of students who have
completed programs, and verification that each student has completed the requirements for
the program.
100.4.2.3 Acknowledgements Based on Non-credit Course Work
Acknowledgements of completion of non-credit courses and programs will clearly indicate the clock
hours of participation, and the number of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) awarded, if applicable.
Titles of the programs will be descriptive and will not be the same as Board of Regents' approved degree,
diploma, or certificate programs. These acknowledgements of completion will be signed by the
Instructor and the Campus Administrator. The Student Affairs Office will be provided with a list of
students who have completed programs each semester and verification that each student has completed
the requirements for the program. These students may not apply for nor participate in graduation
ceremonies.
100.5 FORMAT FOR DIPLOMAS, CERTIFICATES AND CAREER AND TECHNICAL CERTIFICATES
(CTC) ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS OF COMPLETION
100.5.1 The format of all NLTCC Diplomas, Certificates, and CTC acknowledgements of completion will be
approved by the Vice President of Career and Technical Education's Office.
100.5.2 No Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College employee may design, print, reproduce or
distribute any diploma, certificate or CTC acknowledgement of completion not approved, and produced
through the above process.
100.6 FORMAT FOR OTHER ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS AND AWARDS
Individual regions, programs and organizations may produce and distribute acknowledgements of completion
(other than the CTC), honor awards, attendance awards, scholarship acknowledgments, acknowledgements of
appreciation, etc. However, the College seal, Chancellor's signature, official paper, and the term "certificate,"
may not be used for these other acknowledgments. Such acknowledgements and awards should be approved
through the Campus Administrator prior to their distribution.
Policy Reference:
LTC Policy # IS1930.100 Academic Diplomas Policy & Procedures Memorandum
Louisiana Board of Regents
LCTCS Policy #1.001 Wording Utilized on LCTCS Degrees, Diplomas and Other Awards
LCTCS Policy #1.002 Delegation of Authority to Chancellors to Sign and Distribute Degrees,
Diplomas and Certificates
LTC Policy SA1930.221 Graduation Requirements
LTC Policy SA1930.254 Admission of First-Time Freshmen
LTC Policy SA1930.255 Admission of Transfer and Re-Entry Students
Policy Name: Classification of Students
Policy Number: 1.115
Effective Date: June 1, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Classification of Students
Classification of students is defined by Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC). This policy
applies to all students enrolled throughout the NLTCC.
115.1 SCOPE
Classification is based on the number of credit hours earned by the student.
115.1.1 Freshman: An undergraduate student who has earned 29 or less semester credit hours.
115.1.2 Sophomore: An undergraduate student who has earned 30 or more semester credit hours.
115.1.3 Non-Degree Student: A student who is taking courses, but not working toward a credential.
Policy Reference:
LTC Policy #IS1930.115 Classification of Students
Policy Name: Clock Hours/Credit Hours Conversions
Policy Number: 1.118
Effective Date: June 1, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Clock Hours/Credit Hours Conversions
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) enforces the minimum conversion rates of clock hours to
credit hours as defined by the Council on Occupational Education (COE).
SCOPE
As defined by the Accrediting Commission of the Council on Occupational Education, the minimum clock hour/credit
hour conversion rates are as follows:
Lecture:
Lab:
Work Based Activities:
Policy Reference:
15 clock hours equal 1 credit hour
30 clock hours equal 1 credit hour
45 clock hours equal 1 credit hour
LTC Policy # IS1930.118 Clock Hours/Credit Hours Conversion
Council on Occupational Education Policies and Procedures
Policy Name: Drop/Add/Reinstatement Period
Policy Number: 1.140
Effective Date: June 1, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Drop/Add/Reinstatement Period
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) defines the period in which a student can drop, add, or
reinstate a course(s). This policy and procedures memorandum applies to all NLTCC students,
140.1 SCOPE
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) allows students to add or drop classes at
designated times.
140.2 DEFINITIONS
140.2.1
140.2.1.1
140.2.2
140.2.3
140.3 ADD
Drop/Add — the periods of time during a semester or summer term when students may officially
change their schedules by dropping and/or adding courses without penalty. Classes dropped outside
of the Drop-Add period(s) carry various institutional penalties.
Some institutions allow faculty to complete an administrative "add" and/or "drop" for students under
limited circumstances.
Withdrawal (Student-Course) — an action whereby a student formally "drops" a course (or courses)
from his/her schedule of classes by using the institution's approved procedures and timetable.
Withdrawal (Vocational Program) — a student who enrolled in an institution but withdrew before
acquiring sufficient competencies for employment in the field of education/training pursued or a
related field. (Formerly Non-Completer) Source: COE
140.3.1 Students may add courses within the first four days of a regular semester.
140.3.2 Students will be assessed additional tuition and/or late fees, if applicable.
140.3.3
140.4 DROP
140.4.1
140.4.2
Students who enroll in compressed courses are encouraged to enroll in all courses at the beginning of the
semester in order to maximize federal financial aid benefits and minimize tuition costs.
Students who drop a course after the official enrollment day, (7th day of a 4/8-week course, 14th day of a
16-week course) but by the official withdrawal date will receive a grade of (W). There will be no grade
penalty for dropped courses nor will the course(s) appear on the students' transcript if the course is
dropped before the official enrollment day.
If a student wishes to drop all courses in which he/she is enrolled, a "College Withdrawal Form" must be
completed.
140.4.3
Faculty may drop students for excessive absences if the student misses 3 classes or 10% of the class.
140.5. REINSTATEMENT
140.5.1
In order for a student to be reinstated into a course, the instructor, and Campus Administrator or
designee must agree that the student has an acceptable excuse for missing or dropping the class, and that
the student has a reasonable chance of passing the course if re-instated.
140.5.2 A student may be administratively reinstated if dropped by the college in error.
Grade Appeals
Policy Reference: NLTCC Policy 1.149
Division: Academic Affairs
Original Adoption: January 9, 2025
Effective Date: January 9, 2025
Last Revision: May 14, 2025
Purpose:
The purpose of this policy is to expand upon Policy 1.149: Grade Changes, specifically addressing grade changes resulting from the grade appeals process.
All students at NLTCC wishing to contest a grade received in any course must submit their appeal to the designated authority within seven (7) business days following the end of the semester. If an appeal is not filed within this timeframe, the student forfeits the right to contest the grade. It is important to note that this policy excludes disputes regarding grades for individual assignments, exams, projects, clinical experiences, or grades assigned due to non-attendance.
If your financial aid has been revoked due to not maintaining satisfactory academic progress (SAP), please refer to Policy 1.026. Policy 1.026 provides detailed guidelines on the SAP requirements and outlines the appeal process necessary to potentially regain financial aid eligibility.
Grade Appeal Procedures
1. Initial Consultation: The student must first engage with the instructor regarding any concerns about their grade within the specified period. If the instructor agrees a change is justified, they will fill out an NLTCC Grade Change Form (Policy 1.149a) and submit it to the Department Head, who will then submit it to the Registrar's Office.
2. Escalation Process: If a satisfactory resolution is not reached with the instructor, or if the student cannot establish contact, the next step is to make an appointment with the Divisional Dean. Students who go to the Divisional Dean without prior consultation with the instructor will be referred to the instructor for resolution.
3. Appeal Submission: Should the issue remain unresolved, the student may formally appeal their grade by submitting a completed Student Final Course Grade Appeal Form (Policy 1.148a) with any relevant evidence attached to the office of Executive Director of Academics and Institutional Advancement.
4. Instructor Response: The Executive Director of Academics and Institutional Advancement will notify the instructor of the appeal and provide them with a copy of the completed Student Final Course Grade Appeal Form (Policy 1.148a). The instructor is required to respond within seven (7) business days and may include additional documentation using the Instructor Response to Final Grade Appeal Form (Policy 1.148b). This information will be returned to the Executive Director of Academics and Institutional Advancement for review by the Grade Appeals Committee.
5. Committee Review: The Grade Appeals Committee will convene to evaluate all relevant documentation regarding the appeal. Once a decision has been reached, the committee chair will finalize and sign the corresponding Appeal Forms. The committee's decision along with the supporting documents will be sent to the Vice Chancellor of Academics, Student Affairs & Workforce, who will inform both the student and the instructor of the outcome.
6. Grade Change Notification: If the committee orders a grade change, a Grade Change Form (Policy 1.149a) will be completed and signed by the committee chair. A copy of the official minutes documenting the committee's actions will be forwarded to the Registrar to complete the change.
7. Further Appeals: If a student is not satisfied with the verdict of the committee, they can submit a written appeal to the Chancellor of NLTCC within four (4) business days. The Chancellor will review the written appeal and provide a response.
Policy Name: Grade Changes
Policy Number: 1.149
Effective Date: June 1, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Grade Changes Policy
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) defines the guidelines for changing a student's grade.
149.1 SCOPE
After a faculty member has submitted a grade roster for a class, all changes of grades are completed through the submission of a ("Grade Change") form. Grades changes may be initiated by an instructor only to:
149.1.1 Correct a computational or transcription error on the part of the instructor.
149.1.2 Change an "I" grade to a final grade after the student has completed the "I" contract.
149.1.3 Alternatively, in cases where the student has documented that illness/accident at the very end of the semester prevented the student from completing the courses or from requesting an "I" contract.
149.1.4 Instructors may not change a student's grade based on extra work done by the student after the semester ended or based on work submitted after the published deadline (unless, as indicated above, some legitimate reason existed for the student's failure to notify the instructor in a timely fashion).
Policy Reference:
LTC Policy # IS1930.149 Grade Changes
LTC Grade Change Request Form IS100.18
Policy Name: Grade Point Average
Policy Number: 1.150
Effective Date: June 1, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
150.1 SCOPE
A grade point average (GPA) is obtained by dividing the total quality points earned by the total credit hours attempted. The GPA must be calculated to the third decimal place.
Total Quality Points Earned = GPA (x.xxx)
Total Credit Hours Attempted
The term GPA is based on the earned quality points and the credit hours attempted for the semester/session only. The cumulative GPA is based on the total earned quality points and the total credit hours attempted. Grades of I, W, R, S, P, AU, and U, will not be calculated in the grade point average.
150.2 TYPES OF GPAs
150.2.1 NLTCC Cumulative GPA — Calculate GPA formula using all LTC credits (excluding all quality points and credit hours exempted through academic amnesty).
140.2.1.1 Graduation Cumulative GPA — Calculate GPA formula using those credits applicable to curriculum requirements only.
140.2.2 Higher Education GPA — Calculate GPA formula using all credit hours attempted from higher education institutions excluding all quality points and credit hours exempted through academic amnesty and/or repeated course up to a maximum of 15 hours.
140.2.3 Adjusted Cumulative GPA — Calculate High Education GPA formula excluding NLTCC repeated credit hours and quality points up to a maximum of 15 credit hours.
Policy Reference:
LTC Policy #IS1930.150 Grade Point Average
LTC Policy #IS1930.150 Grade Symbols and Designations
Policy Name: Grade Symbols and Designations
Policy Number: 1.152
Effective Date: June 1, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Grade Symbols and Designations
Grade symbols and designations, assigned and defined by Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC), apply to all NLTCC campuses and branches.
152.1 SCOPE
Grade symbols and designations, assigned and defined by Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC), apply to all NLTCC campuses.
152.2 GRADE SYMBOLS & DESIGNATIONS
152.2.1 A
Represents exceptionally high achievement. It is valued at four grade points for each credit hour.
152.2.2 B
Represents high achievement. It is valued at three grade points for each credit hour.
152.2.3 C
Represents satisfactory achievement. It is valued at two grade points for each credit hour.
152.2.4 D
Represents the minimum achievement for credit for elective courses that are not a part of the student's major. It is valued at one grade point for each credit hour.
152.2.5 F
Failure - Represents an unsatisfactory achievement and indicates failure in the course. It is valued at zero grade points and zero credit hours. The student who receives a grade of ("F") in a course is not eligible to continue into the next sequential course(s) and shall not be eligible for graduation. Credit may only be obtained by repeating the course.
152.2.6 AU
Audit - Represents a course that is not taken for credit. Students who audit a course must be admitted to the college and officially enrolled in the course. Any change in status from audit to credit or credit to audit must be completed prior to the last day for adding classes. An audited class may be taken for credit during another semester. An Audit carries no value in computing the grade point average.
152.2.7 P
Non-Traditional Credit — Represents credit given for successfully challenging a course, military course credits, prior learning experiences, etc. Nontraditional credits carry no value in computing the grade point average.
152.2.8 I
Incomplete — Represents incomplete coursework. It shall be given only when there are unavoidable and extenuating circumstances resulting in the inability for a student to complete the coursework prior to the end of a semester. An Incomplete shall only be awarded when there is a reasonable possibility that a passing grade will result from completion of the work. The instructor shall inform the student what work is necessary and the deadline to complete such work (Incomplete Contract). The deadline must be no later than the first day of mid-term exams of the next semester. Students do not re-enroll or pay tuition for an Incomplete course. The grade of ("I") has no value in computing the grade point average but is counted in hours attempted.
152.2.9 R
Repeat — Represents a course that is being repeated. The Symbol (R) will follow the letter grade earned. The last grade awarded will be used in the computation of the cumulative grade point average. The term grade point average is not affected with Repeat grades. Repeat grades do not change a prior term's GPA.
152.2.10 S
Satisfactory - Represents a satisfactory grade. It has no value in computing the grade point average.
152.2.11 U
Unsatisfactory - Represents an unsatisfactory grade. It has no value in computing the grade point average.
152.2.12 W
Withdraw - Represents a withdrawal from a course. Students may officially withdraw from a course or courses until the official drop date and will receive a grade of ("W"). The course and grade of ("W") will be posted to the student's permanent record but will not be included in the calculation of the semester/session or cumulative grade point averages. Students are cautioned that withdrawal from a course or courses may impact their financial aid and other (e.g., insurance coverage) status. The official drop date for a typical course will be calculated at 60% of the course length.
Policy Reference: LTC Policy # IS1930.152 Grade Symbols & Designations
Policy Name: Grading Scale
Policy Number: 1.154
Effective Date: June 1, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Grading Scale
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) has established a grading scale describing the letter grade that is associated with the percentage grade.
154.1 SCOPE
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) has established a grading scale describing the letter grade that is associated with the percentage grade. The student's transcript will include the letter grade only, not the percentage grade.
154.2 GRADING SCALE
154.2.1 The grading scale at Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College for all programs, except those regulated by a licensing board, is listed below.
90% -100% A
80%-89% B
70%-79% C
60%-69% D
59% - Below F
154.2.2 The NLTCC grading scale for programs regulated by the Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners (LSBPNE) is:
94% -100% A
88% - 93% B
80% - 87% C
70% - 79% D
69% - Below F
Policy Reference: LTC Policy # IS1930.154 Grading Scale
Policy Name: Class and/or Program Size
Policy Number: 1.166
Effective Date: June 1, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Grading Scale
Policy regarding credit class and/or program size and necessary exceptions to anticipated enrollments based upon licensing board requirements and other regulatory considerations is established by the Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College.
166.1 SCOPE AND APPLICABILITY
This policy sets anticipated class and program size standards at 15 students. However, based upon required criteria by program accreditation bodies, safety, and the number of workstations available, exceptions to this number may vary. An instructor may have multiple courses coexisting at one time. In that case, the sum of the students in all concurrent courses shall be used to determine if a class size is met.
All variances from these standards, including emerging programs, will require approval from the Director.
166.2 EXCEPTIONS TO ANTICIPATED CLASS AND/OR PROGRAM SIZE
The following considerations may be justification for approving classes and/or programs with less than the anticipated size:
166.2.1 Size of available classroom
166.2.2 Number of available workstations
166.2.3 Amount of available equipment
166.2.4 Courses taught under specified mandates (Accrediting bodies, etc.)
166.2.5 Instructor teaching multiple laboratory courses, simultaneously, whereby enrollment figures are combined
166.2.6 Program teach out
166.2.7 Graduating students
166.2.8 Summer semester and intersession credit courses (10 students)
166.2.9 New and emerging programs
166.3 PROGRAM ACCOUNTABILITY
Program accountability will be the responsibility of each College. This includes determining program probation status (failure to meet enrollment standards), developing a program improvement plan, and implementing guidelines for program suspension or closure.
Policy Reference: LTC Policy # IS1930.166 Class and/or Program Size
Policy Name: Placement Exams
Policy Number: 1.173
Effective Date: June 1, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Placement Exams
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) defines placement exam requirements.
173.1 SCOPE
The purpose of placement exams is to measure a student’s academic levels in order to determine a student’s need for adult education course(s). These courses are designed to enhance the student’s success in his/her chosen program.
173.2 PLACEMENT EXAM REQUIREMENTS & PROCEDURES
173.2.1 All applicants of the following certificate, diploma, and degree programs are required to take a placement test or to provide the campus Office of Student Affairs with an official record of previously achieved appropriate test scores. Test scores may be waived for all programs except for the AAS programs and the nursing program if the individual brings in proof of a high school diploma.
Associate of Applied Science (AAS)
Technical Diploma (TD)
Certificate of Technical Studies (CTS)
173.2.2 Placement exam scores accepted by Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College are ACT, SAT, ACT COMPASS, and ACT ASSET. The ACT ASSET will be administered in cases where special accommodations or extenuating circumstances exist.
173.2.3 An applicant may retest for a program placement after a waiting period of 15 calendar days. However, there is a 30-calendar day waiting period for the ASSET if only one form is administered. Additionally, applicants may be limited by the number of times a placement test may be retaken prior to program admission/enrollment.
173.2.4 Students who do not meet the required Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College placement scores for AAS, TD, or CTS programs must enroll in Adult Education (English, Math, and/or Reading) as per NLTCC Adult Education Policy IS1930.139.
173.2.5 Non-Degree seeking students requesting to enroll in general education course(s) that require specific academic competencies are required to take a placement exam, have appropriate scores, or have approved transfer credit.
173.2.6 Transfer in students whose official transcripts prove the successful completion (minimum of “C”) in required college level transferable general education courses are exempt from taking the placement test, unless otherwise required for program entry by an accrediting agency; i.e., Louisiana State Board of Practical Nurse Examiners.
173.2.7 Transfer students who need general education courses or transfer students who must meet requirements of a regulatory agency for program entry must take the placement exam.
Policy Reference:
LTC Policy # IS1930.173 Placement Exams
Louisiana State Board of Regents
LTC Policy #IS1930.106 Acceptance of Transfer Credit
LTC Policy #IS1930.139 Developmental Education
LTC Policy #SA1930.254 Admission of First-Time Freshmen
LTC Policy #SA1930.255 Admission of Transfer and Re-Entry Students
Policy Name: Transferring to Another College or University
Policy Number: 1.190
Effective Date: June 1, 2007
Date of Last Revision: July 24, 2019
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Transferring to Another College or University
Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College (NLTCC) clarifies transferring credits from the College to another institution. Transferability of any credit is at the discretion of the receiving institution. Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College neither guarantees nor implies that coursework taken at the college will transfer to any institution other than Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College.
Scope
While there are articulation and transfer agreements in place between NLTCC and other postsecondary educational institutions, students who wish to transfer are encouraged to check with the receiving institution prior to enrolling in coursework at Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College.
Policy Reference: LTC Policy # IS1930.190 Transferring to Another College or University
Policy Name: Drug and Alcohol Abuse Education/Prevention Program
Policy Number: 1.191
Effective Date: January 8, 1990
Date of Last Revision: October 8, 2024
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Drug and Alcohol Abuse Education/ Prevention Program
DRUG FREE SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITIES ACT
The Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendment of 1989 (Public Law 101-226) requires the College to
certify to the Department of Education that it has adopted and implemented a program to prevent the illicit use of drugs
and the abuse of alcohol by students and employees.
This program must include the following:
I. Standards of conduct concerning the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of drugs, and the illegal use of
alcohol by students and employees on college property or at any college activity.
2. Description of legal sanctions.
3. Clear statement of the College's sanctions for violations.
4. Description of any drug and alcohol counseling, treatment, or rehabilitation services.
5. Description of the health risks associated with use of illicit drugs and abuse of alcohol.
The information below is in compliance with the requirements of the Act.
STATEMENT OF PURPOSE
In an effort to assure compliance with Public Law 101-226, all facilities of NLTCC are designated as Drug Free Zones.
It is unlawful to possess, use, or distribute illicit drugs on NLTCC property or at any College-sponsored event. Alcohol
and drug use is a major issue in the community and on college campuses. Alcohol and drugs can seriously damage
physical and mental health, as well as jeopardize personal and public safety. In addition, excessive alcohol consumption
may lead to physical abuse, date rape, auto accidents, violence, and other behaviors which lead to self-destruction.
The College abides by all state, federal, and local laws pertaining to alcohol and will enforce underage drinking laws.
NLTCC policy prohibits the consumption, possession, or distribution of alcoholic beverages or other drugs in or on any
College property or while participating in any College-sponsored trip or activity. All state, local, and federal laws are
enforced and may result in disciplinary action by the College as well as criminal prosecution. Violation of the underage
drinking laws will be enforced.
COLLEGE POLICY, SANCTIONS, AND HEARING PROCEDURES
Policy, sanctions, and hearing procedures are described Policy #2.004 and can be found in the Student/Handbook.
Policy #2.004 will be applied to all students found in violation of any part of the code which includes the following:
Policy Name: Drug and Alcohol Abuse
Education/Prevention Program
Policy Number: 1.191
Effective Date: January 8, 1990
Date of Last Revision: October 8, 2024
Functional Area: Academic Affairs
Code #1.23 Unauthorized or illegal possession, use, or transportation of narcotics, stimulants, depressants,
hallucinogenic drugs, marijuana (synthetic or other derivatives and medical marijuana), or other illegal drugs on campus
or while on a college-sponsored event or trip.
ACADEMIC PROGRAMS WITH A CLINICAL COMPONENT
Upon acceptance into a program with a clinical component, each student will be required to sign an Authority to Release
Drug and/or Alcohol Testing Records release form and is assessed a non-refundable drug screen fee. Drug testing can be
performed randomly, selectively or as a group. Refusal of the program student to submit to a drug test or a positive drug
screen indicating alcohol or drug use will result in the student's immediate dismissal from the program,
A student who has been dismissed from a program for a positive drug screen indicating alcohol or drug use may reapply
to the program from which he/she was dismissed or to another clinical program after a period of one year with the
understanding that the positive drug screen will remain on his/her record. Should a student have another positive drug
screen, the student will be dismissed from the program immediately and shall not be permitted to apply to any NLTCC
allied health program.
Programs with a clinical component also abide by regulations set forth by accreditation agencies, state and federal
regulatory boards/agencies, and state and federal law. Program specific management of positive drug/alcohol screen
results may vary due to these external requirements. Program specific management is outlined in the program
handbook.
ACADEMIC PROGRAMS INCLUDING A COMMERCIAL DRIVING EXAM
Upon acceptance in a program or course that include a driving exam, the applicant will consent to a DOT drug/alcohol
test at a specified clinic at the cost. In the case of a positive test result, the student will not be able to enroll
in the program. The results of the drug screen will be entered into the Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse and will
require enrollment in an appropriate counseling program to enroll in any other program that
offers commercial driving exam. Upon request, the college can provide a list of a local counselors approved by DOT,
some of which accept Medicaid.
COUNSELING PROGRAMS
NLTCC offers information concerning drug or alcohol counseling, treatment, or rehabilitation programs available in the
college communities. This information is available through the college counseling office which can be reached through
any student services office.
POLICY AND PROGRAM REVIEW
This policy and the ALCOHOL AND DRUG 101 program will be reviewed biennially. The review will include:
A policy/program review in the fall semester every other year beginning in 2024 to determine effectiveness,
A documented implementation of changes as needed by the review,
A review of disciplinary sanctions imposed by the college to determine if they are consistently enforced, and
A resulting report published in the spring semester following the review.
To ensure all students are notified of the information presented in the policy and program, it will be mandatory for all
students to watch a DRUG AND ALCOHOL 101 orientation video that details the information contained in the policy,
program, student code of conduct, and the student compliance responsibilities. All students will be required to watch the
video at the beginning of each Fall semester or immediately upon enrollment throughout the remainder of the school year.
This policy will be distributed to the students each fall semester or upon enrollment throughout the remainer of the school
year.
Policy Reference: LCTCS Policy # 6:030 Drug Free Workplace