Phillips Implements Student Debt Reduction Plan

The executive committee of the Phillips Theological Seminary Board of Trustees has approved a student debt reduction plan in response to the economic upheaval caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The members of the committee, who act on behalf of the board between meetings, unanimously agreed March 31 that students enrolled for degree credit shall be given an additional 10 percent tuition remission grant for courses taken throughout 2020, both spring and fall semesters and the June DMin fortnight.

The plan also cuts general student fees by half over the same time period. These changes are only for the 2020 calendar year.

This means students receiving 60 percent tuition remission, you will now get 70 percent in tuition aid. Those at the 80 percent remission level, will get 90 percent off tuition. The semester fees will now drop to $62.50.

“I’ve asked that the changes for the tuition remission rates go into effect immediately,” said President Nancy Claire Pittman.

If students have already fully paid their spring 2020 tuition, the overpayment will be automatically credited to their fall balance. Students with credit on their accounts may request a refund.

In consultation with the presidential leadership team at Phillips, Pittman also decided this semester’s on-campus courses will continue to meet online through at least April 30.

“I deeply appreciate the flexibility of the faculty and all our students in helping us flatten the curve of this pandemic,” Pittman said.

“In these weeks of stress and uncertainty, I am gratified by the work of the faculty and staff who have risen to every challenge they have been given with a willingness to serve our students,” she said. “I am overwhelmed by the board’s dedication to the welfare of our students in this troubling time.”