Compliance & audits
Does the 85/15 rule apply to us?
Which programs the 85/15 enrollment ratio covers, how to run the monthly check, when the 35% exemption applies, and when to call your SAA.
The 85/15 rule says no more than 85% of the students in a program can be having their tuition paid in whole or in part by VA education benefits. It mainly affects proprietary schools, non-college degree programs, and flight and similar training. Traditional degree programs at public and nonprofit institutions are generally exempt.
The basic check
Divide VA-supported students by total students in the program and multiply by 100. If the result is above 85%, the program is out of compliance and can lose approval. Do not count students who have dropped, and work from a current enrollment snapshot.
Programs where supported students make up less than 35% of enrollment may qualify for an exemption from full reporting. Even then, keep your statement of assurance on file and be ready to produce it during a survey.
- Check ratios monthly for any program the rule covers.
- Act early, around 80%, rather than waiting for a violation.
- Talk to your SAA before a problem, not after.
- Document every calculation and the date you ran it.