Refund Policy
Under New York law, tuition liability is divided by the number of quarters or terms in the program, workshop, or course. Total tuition liability is limited to the quarter or term during which the student withdrew or was terminated and any previous terms or quarters completed. In accordance with school policy, the academy will earn tuition and fees as follows, based on the week in which the student withdraws or is terminated: For full-time programs, workshops, or courses that are divided into Quarters:
- First Quarter Second and Subsequent Quarters
- If termination occurs, DFA/CI may retain:
- Prior to or during 1st week: 0%
- During 2nd week : 25%
- During 3rd week: 50%
- During 4th week: 75%
- After 4th week:
- 100% If termination occurs, DFA/CI may retain:
- Prior to/during 1st week: 25%
- During 2nd week : 50%
- During 3rd week: 75%
- After week 3: 100%
- Workshops that are divided into terms of 15 to 18 weeks.
- Workshops and short-term courses that are six weeks or less:
- If termination occurs, DFA/CI may retain:
- Prior to/during 1st week: 0%
- During 2nd week : 20%
- During 3rd week: 35%
- During 4th week: 50%
- During 5th week: 70%
- After 5th week:
- 100% If termination occurs, DFA/CI may retain:
- 0-15% of course complete: 0%
- 16-30% complete: 25%
- 31-45% complete: 50%
- 46-60% complete: 75%
- After 60% of the course: 100%
FERPA Policy
FERPA stands for the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). This law protects the privacy of student education records from kindergarten through graduate school. FERPA applies to all schools that receive funds through an applicable program of the U.S. Department of Education, and thus most postsecondary schools are covered by FERPA.
FERPA requires that education records be kept confidential. Records may be disclosed with the consent of the student, if the disclosure meets one of the statutory exemptions, or if the disclosure is directory information and the student has not placed a hold on release of directory information.
Students have a right of access to their records (but not necessarily the right to a copy of the record) and a right to request the correction of records that are inaccurate or misleading. If the school denies this request for correction of a record, the student may request a hearing.
Institutions must give students annual notice of their rights under this law, and most institutions accomplish this by having the policy in a central location that is distributed annually to students.
The statute defines the phrase “education record” broadly as “those records, files documents, and other materials which 1) contain information directly related to a student; and 2) are maintained by an educational institution.
FERPA Annual Notification
Students with complaints about violations to student record privacy or access to records may contact the Registrar’s Office at (212) 333-4013
CLERY ACT POLICIES
Partial Crime Statistics Reporting 2017:2019
Notice of Annual Security Report Availability
Digital Film Academy’s annual security report is now available. This report is required by federal law and contains policy statements and crime statistics for the school. The policy statements address the school’s policies, procedures and programs concerning safety and security, for example, policies for responding to emergency situations and sexual offenses. This report is available online at (web URL). You may also request a paper copy from the DFA Administration Office.
Policy Statement Addressing Alcoholic Beverages
The possession, sale or the furnishing of alcohol on the University campus is governed by DFA Alcohol Policy and New York State law. The enforcement of alcohol laws on campus is the primary responsibility of the New York City Police Department. The DFAcampus has been designated “Drug free” and only under certain circumstances is the consumption of alcohol permitted. The Possession, sale, Manufacture or distribution of any controlled substance is illegal under both state and federal laws. Violators are subject to University disciplinary action, criminal prosecution, fine and imprisonment. It is unlawful to sell, furnish or provide alcohol to a person under the age of 21. The possession of alcohol by anyone under 21 years of age in a public place or a place open to the public is illegal.It is also a violation of the UCSD Alcohol Policy for anyone to consume or possess alcohol in any public or private area of campus without prior University approval. Organizations or groups violating alcohol/substance policies or laws may be subject to sanctions by the University.
Policy Statement Addressing Substance Abuse Education
PREVENTION PROGRAMS
The DFA has developed a program to prevent the illicit use of drugs and the abuse of alcohol by students and employees. The program provides dissemination of informational materials, educational programs, counseling services, referrals and college disciplinary actions.
LOCAL, STATE & FEDERAL LEGAL SANCTIONS
Legal Sanctions – Laws Governing Alcohol
The State of New York sets 21 as the minimum age to purchase or possess any alcoholic beverage. Specific ordinances regarding violations of alcohol laws, including driving while intoxicated, are available from the Office of Public Safety. Effective January 1, 1990, a package of state laws was passed regarding alcohol. They include the following:
- Persons under age 21 found possessing alcohol may be given a maximum fine of $50.
- Anyone convicted of fraudulently using a driver’s license to buy or attempt to buy alcohol may have his/her driver’s license suspended for up to 90 days.
- Persons convicted of buying alcohol through fraudulent means face a possible $100 fine and/or being required to do up to 30 hours of community service work.
A violation of any law regarding alcohol will be treated as a separate disciplinary matter by the DFA.
Policy Statement Addressing Disclosures to Alleged Victims of Crimes of Violence or Non-forcible Sex Offenses
Digital Film Academy will, upon written request, disclose to the alleged victim of a crime of violence, or a non-forcible sex offense, the results of any disciplinary hearing conducted by the college against the student who is the alleged perpetrator of the crime or offense. If the alleged victim is deceased as a result of the crime or offense, DFA will provide the results of the disciplinary hearing to the victim’s next of kin, if so requested.
Policy Statement Addressing Illegal Drug Possession
The DFA campus has been designated “Drug free” and only under certain circumstances is the consumption of alcohol permitted. The possession, sale, manufacture or distribution of any controlled substance is illegal under both state and federal laws. Such laws are strictly enforced by the New York City Police Department. Violators are subject to University disciplinary action, criminal prosecution, fine and imprisonment.
Policy Statement Addressing Criminal Activity Off Campus
Digital Film Academy does not provide law enforcement service to off-campus residences. Criminal activity at recognized fraternity and sororities residences is monitored and recorded by the New York City Police Department. Student Affairs enjoys a close working relationship with the NYPD when violations of federal, state, or local laws surface. This cooperative team approach addresses situations as they arise as well as future concerns.
Policy Statement Addressing Crime Prevention Programs for Students and Employees
Digital Film Academy personnel facilitate programs for student, faculty, and new employee orientations, providing a variety of educational strategies and tips on how to protect themselves from sexual assault, theft and other crimes.
Tip: To enhance personal safety, and especially after an evening class, walk with friends or someone from class that you know well.
Policy Statement Addressing the Encouragement of Accurate and Prompt Crime Reporting
Community members, students, faculty, staff, and guests are encouraged to report all crimes and public safety related incidents to the New York City Police Department (NYPD) in a timely manner. This publication focuses on NYPD because it patrols the entirety of the Digital Film Academy campus.
To report a crime or an emergency on the DFA campus, call NYPD 9-1-1 To report a non-emergency security or public safety related matter, call NYPD at 3-1-1.
All NYPD incident reports are forwarded to the Digital Film Academy Administration for review and potential action. Digital Film Academy Administration will investigate a report when it is deemed appropriate. Additional information obtained via the investigation will also be forwarded to NYPD.
Policy Statement Addressing Security Awareness Programs for Students and Employees
During orientation students are informed of services offered by the New York City Police. Students are told about crime on-campus and in surrounding neighbor-hoods. Similar information is presented to new employees.
A common theme of all awareness and crime prevention programs is to encourage students and employees to be aware of their responsibility for their own security and the security of others.
When time is of the essence, information is released to the university community through security alerts posted prominently throughout campus, through computer memos sent over the university’s electronic mail system.
Policy Statement Addressing Counselors and Confidential Crime Reporting
All reports will be investigated. The Digital Film Academy does not have procedures for voluntary, confidential reporting of crime statistics. Violations of the law will be referred to law enforcement agencies and when appropriate, to the Digital Film Academy Administration for review. When a potentially dangerous threat to the DFA community arises, timely reports or warnings will be issued through e-mail announcements, the posting of flyers at local campuses, in-class announcements, or other appropriate means.
Policy Statement Addressing Statement for an Institution That Does Not Have an MOU
The Digital Film Academy maintains a close working relationship with the NYC Police Department (NYPD). The Administration of Digital Film Academy and NYPD communicate regularly on the scene of incidents that occur in and around the campus area. The DFA Administration works closely with the investigative staff at NYPD when incidents arise that require joint investigative efforts, resources, crime related reports and exchanges of information, as deemed necessary. There is no written memorandum of understanding (MOU) between DFA and NYPD.
Policy Statement Addressing Campus Law Enforcement Authority
Digital Film Academy Administrator, Staff and Instructors have the authority to ask persons for identification and to determine whether individuals have lawful business at Digital Film Academy. Digital Film Academy Administrator, Staff and Instructors do not possess arrest power. Criminal incidents are referred to the local police who have jurisdiction on the campus. Digital Film Academy Administration maintains a highly professional working relationship with the New York City Police Department. All crime victims and witnesses are strongly encouraged to immediately report the crime to Digital Film Academy Administration and the appropriate police agency. Prompt reporting will assure timely warning notices on-campus and timely disclosure of crime statistics.
Policy Statement Addressing Security and Access
During business hours, the College (excluding certain housing facilities) will be open to students, parents, employees, contractors, guests, and invitees. During non-business hours access to all College facilities is by key, if issued, or by admittance via the Department of Campus Safety or Residence Life staff. In the case of periods of extended closing, the College will admit only those with prior written approval to all facilities.
Emergencies may necessitate changes or alterations to any posted schedules. Examinations are periodically conducted of security issues such as locks, alarms, lighting, and communications. Additionally, during the academic year, the DFA Board of Directors meet to discuss issues of pressing concern.
Policy Statement Addressing Limited Voluntary Confidential Reporting
The Digital Film Academy encourages anyone who is the victim or witness to any crime to promptly report the incident to the police. Because police reports are public records under state law, the NYC Police Department cannot hold reports of crime in confidence. Confidential reports for purposes of inclusion in the annual disclosure of crime statistics can generally be made to other DFA Administration authorities as identified below. Confidential reports of crime may also be made to DFA Administration at 212-333-4013.
Policy Statement Addressing Voluntary Confidential Reporting
If you are the victim of a crime and do not want to pursue action within the DFA or the criminal justice system, you may still want to consider making a confidential report. With your permission, DFA Administration can file a report on the details of the incident without revealing your identity. The purpose of a confidential report is to comply with your wish to keep the matter confidential, while taking steps to ensure the future safety of yourself and others. With such information, DFA can keep an accurate record of the number of incidents involving students, determine where there is a pattern of crime with regard to a particular location, method, or assailant, and alert the campus community to potential danger. Reports filed in this manner are counted and disclosed in the annual crimes statistics for the institution.
Policy Statement Addressing How to Report a Crime To report a crime:
Contact Digital Film Academy Administration at 212-333-4013 (non-emergencies), dial 9-1-1- (emergencies only).
In addition you may report a crime to the following areas:
24hr Building Management: 212-757-6995
Policy Regarding Preparation of Disclosure of Security and Crime Statistics
Digital Film Academy prepares this report to comply with the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Crime Statistics Act. The full text of this report can be located on our web site at www. Digital Film Academy edu. You will also be able to connect to our site via the DFA Home page at www. Digital Film Academy.edu. This report is prepared in cooperation with the local law enforcement agencies surrounding our main campus
Campus crime, arrest and referral statistics include those reported designated campus officials (including but not limited to directors, deans, department heads), and local law enforcement agencies. These statistics may also include crimes that have occurred in private residences or businesses and is not required by law.
Each year, an e-mail notification is made to all enrolled students that provides the web site to access this report. Faculty and staff receive similar notification with their paycheck. All prospective employees may obtain a copy from Digital Film Academy or by calling (212) 333-4013, and the web site address will be attached to DFA employment applications. A partial version of this report is located in the class schedule.
Policy Regarding the Issuance of Timely Warnings
In the event that a situation arises, either on or off campus, that, in the judgment of the Administration of Digital Film Academy, constitutes an ongoing or continuing threat, a campus wide “timely warning” will be issued. The warning will be issued through the college e-mail system to students, faculty and staff.
Depending on the particular circumstances of the crime, especially in all situations that could pose an immediate threat to the community and individuals, the Administration of Digital Film Academy may also post a notice on the campus-wide electronic bulletin board on the University Police web site at: DigitalFilmAcademy.edu, providing the university community with more immediate notification.
The electronic bulletin board is immediately accessible via computer by all faculty, staff and students. Anyone with information warranting a timely warning should report the circumstances to the Administration of Digital Film Academy, by phone (212-333-4013) or in person at the Administration Office of Digital Film Academy at 630 9th Ave – Suite 901, NY NY 10036.
Campus Security Policies
Reporting Procedures
The campus provides several ways to report crimes and related problems. Individuals may contact the DFA Student Services or any DFA personnel whenever they witness criminal activity or feel threatened by potential criminal activity, including sexual offenses. Observations ranging from crimes in progress to suspicious behavior to an open manhole can and should be reported to DFA. You may also contact NYPD at 911.
If you are calling about an emergency, dial 911 from any campus phone. If the problem is not a matter of public safety, the dispatcher will transfer the call to the proper agency. All 911 calls accommodate TDD users who wish to contact NYPD. The lobby desks are open 24 hrs per day every day of the year.
Law Enforcement Authority
The Bloomington Police Department is the municipal police force for the City of Bloomington. BPD officers respond to off-campus calls, but also may assist IUPD officers with on-campus incidents. Calls to 911 made from campus phones will be received by NYPD; those made from cellular or off-campus phones are received by NYPD.
Educational Programming
Each year near the beginning of the fall semester, the New York City Police Department releases data showing crimes reported in the previous year. This information is published in various news media, and is presented in a manner compliant with federal law.
Students are informed about personal safety matters from the moment they arrive on campus. Orientation includes multiple presentations on various safety issues, including physical safety, the security of personal property, date or acquaintance rape, and alcohol use.
Many of these programs and their related publications are shared with campus employees, too. All members of the campus community—students, faculty, and staff alike—are told that personal safety for each of them depends upon their joint efforts and mutual concern.
Off-Campus Behavior
Off-campus behavior is generally not subject to action through the campus disciplinary system. However, any violation of law, wherever it occurs, may be reported to university officials, either directly or through the agency of the New York City Police Department. Such violations, either on campus or off, may subject students to campus disciplinary action.
- Alcohol-Drug Policies
- See Alcohol and Drug-Free Campus Policy in this bulletin.
- Sexual Offenses
Many of the foregoing programs and services are designed to address sexual offenses, in addition to other criminal or personal safety matters. Beyond these basic safety services and programs, however, are those that directly address sex offenses and related safety concerns.
New York City District Attorney’s Crime/Special Victims Bureaus
District Attorney’s offices in each borough have specialized divisions that prosecute sexual assault and abuse. The numbers of the offices are listed below:
Manhattan Sexual Assault 212-335-9373
The Service provides individual counseling to persons who have been sexually assaulted and need assistance.
Support groups are coordinated by the Service, and staff is willing to talk with friends and family of those individuals who have been sexually assaulted.
The local community provides other resources for sexual assault victims, including the New York City Alliance Against Sexual Assault http://www.svfreenyc.org/ provides 24-hour services to victims and survivors of domestic violence, in addition to temporary shelter. The shelter also coordinates educational programs addressing issues related to sexual assault.
Disabilities Service
Digital Film Academy is committed to ensuring equal access and opportunity for students with disabilities which support the academic success and personal development of students with disabilities.
Towards this end, students’ needs for reasonable accommodations and support services are verified by Student Services.
The Digital Film Academy facilities is in 100% compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Student Complaint/Grievance Process
The Digital Film Academy and administration work with each student to resolve the issues a student may have. Every student is encouraged to discuss his or her concerns or complaints first with Student Services who will contact the faculty or staff most able to assist the student in resolving the matter. If, however, the student is not satisfied with these efforts, then the student may pursue a formal review by following the procedure outlined below:
- Make a signed, written complaint to the CAO or designated designee describing the basis of the complaint in sufficient detail to allow an investigation.
- The CAO will schedule an appointment with the student within three working days to further discuss the complaint.
- The CAO will confirm the completion of the investigation with a written report of the disposition of the compliant mailed to the student within five working days of the meeting with the student.
- If the student is not satisfied with the CAO’s or designee’s report of the disposition of the complaint, the student may appeal this result in writing to the President within 10 working days of receipt. The appeal letter must include a copy of the written disposition report and an explanation as to why the student is not satisfied with the resulting outcome
- The President will review the written disposition report and the student’s appeal letter and will conduct any further investigation necessary, including requesting additional information from the student or others.
- The President will provide both the student and the CAO with a written appeal finding mailed within 10 working days of the receipt of the appeal letter. This written decision is the final disposition of the complaint.
No reprisal of any kind shall be taken against any participant involved in a grievance procedure.
Students have the right of appeal of the final institutional decision to:
Georgia Nonpublic Postsecondary Education Commission (NPEC)
2082 Exchange Place #220 Tucker GA 30084,
770-414-3300
http://gnpec.georgia.gov/student-resources
and/or to:
Council on Occupational Education
7840 Roswell Rd,
Building 300, Suite 325,
Atlanta, GA 30350
800-917-2081
Students may file complaints with the
Office of Higher Education at http://www.ctohe.org/StudentComplaints.shtml .
DFA will work with the Connecticut Office of Higher Education to resolve any complaints arising from students residing in Connecticut, and will abide by decisions of that entity.