In what is likely an attempt to have all bases covered, schools have been adding programs to the Eligibility and Certification Approval Report (ECAR) that aren’t required.
The Department of Education (ED) said it wants the practice to stop – in part to reduce the workload on schools.
In a June 15 Electronic Announcement, the Department of Education stated that they have observed that many schools are adding education programs to their ECAR in preparation for the earnings accountability reporting that are not required to be added under the regulations. This includes eligible non-Gainful Employment (GE) programs such as degree programs at public and non-profit institutions.
Programs should only be added to the ECAR if required by law or regulation, required by the school’s Program Participation Agreement (PPA), or requested by the Department.
To reduce the administrative workload for schools, the Department will use school-certified data from the National Student Loan Data System (NSLDS) enrollment reporting process to identify programs by their unique Classification of Instructional Program (CIP) codes and credential levels. The Department does not anticipate requiring schools to add eligible non-GE programs to the school’s ECAR.
Schools are encouraged to monitor the Knowledge Center for additional information and updates.
Schools with policy-related questions about earnings accountability are asked to refer to the May 20, 2026, Electronic Announcement or email ob3schoolquestions@ed.gov. Questions regarding the ECAR or other general school eligibility need to be sent to CaseTeams@ed.gov.
