Student Grievance Process & External Options

This page is for concerns that have already been reviewed through the appropriate university complaint process and remain unresolved. A formal grievance may only be used when other established university procedures do not address the issue.

Not sure where to start?

View Student Complaints & Concerns
View Full Student Grievance Policy

When is a Formal Grievance Appropriate?

A formal grievance may be submitted only if:

  • The concern is not covered by another established university process, and
  • The issue involves alleged unreasonable, inconsistent, or policy-unsupported treatment by a university office or representative.

Important Limitations

The formal grievance process does not apply to:

  • Grade appeals
  • Discrimination, harassment, or Title IX-related complaints
  • Institutional complaints handled through other established procedures
  • Complaints against staff handled through Employee Relations (Human Resources)

📄Submit a Formal Grievance

If your concern meets the eligibility criteria above, you may submit a formal grievance in writing to:

Office of the Dean of Students
125 Umstead Hall
Greenville, NC 27858

Include the following:

  • Your name and contact information
  • The individual or office involved
  • Description of the incident
  • Relevant dates and location(s)
  • Supporting documentation (if available)
  • Desired outcome (if available)

🔍After You Submit Your Grievance

  • Your complaint will be reviewed by the Office of the Dean of Students.
  • A designated staff member will investigate the concern.
  • Relevant offices (including Human Resources, if applicable) may be consulted.
  • You may be contacted for additional information.
  • The university will work toward a resolution based on the findings.

🌐Still Not Resolved? External Agencies

If your concern has completed ECU’s internal processes and remains unresolved, some issues may be appropriate for review by external agencies. These agencies handle specific types of institutional or regulatory concerns and do not review every type of complaint. Use the guidance below to identify the external agency that matches the type of concern.

🏛️NC Post-Secondary Education Complaints

🏛️Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

🏛️SARA North Carolina (for out-of-state students)

  • Handles: tuition/fees, program accreditation, licensure requirements, course transfer issues, or other program-related issues.
  • Website: SARA NC
  • Submit:  Online Student Complaint Form

🏛️State Complaint Agencies (home-state concerns)

  • Handles complaints related to your home state’s higher education rules or regulations.
  • Usually applies only to out-of-state students whose concerns are not covered by SARA NC.
  • Examples: tuition, program requirements, or other state-specific educational regulations.
  • Check your state’s higher education agency website for instructions.

Need Help?

If you are unsure whether your concern qualifies for a formal grievance or external reporting, contact the Office of the Dean of Students for guidance before proceeding.