Financial Aid

There are many sources of financial aid, such as the following:

• Veterans benefits – contact the Financial Aid Office
• Institutional scholarships – contact the Financial Aid Office
• Non-institutional scholarships, grants, and loans – Search the web on sites such as
  • FinAid!
  • NAACP Scholarships
  • UNCF Scholarships
  • HBCU Scholarships
  • 558 Scholarships
  • Congressional Black Caucus Foundation
  • Fastweb
• Alternative Loans
  • View the list of vendors

Clinton College participates in the following Federal Student Financial Aid Programs (Learn more at the Department of Education):

• Federal Pell Grant
• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG)
• Federal Work-Study Program
• Federal Stafford Loan

All applicants who wish to be considered for any type of financial aid must fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) via www.studentaid.gov In order for the Office of Financial Aid to receive a notification of a student’s FAFSA, the school code for Clinton College must be listed. The school code for Clinton College is 004923.

Tips for Preparing To Fill Out the FAFSA^® Form

Get a StudentAid.gov account before filling out the FAFSA^® form.

Before starting the FAFSA form, you’ll need to create a StudentAid.gov account to access and fill out the 2025-26 form.

Your contributors will each need their own StudentAid.gov account too, which should also be created before they enter the FAFSA form. “Contributor” is a new term on the 2025–26 FAFSA form—it refers to anyone (you, your spouse, your biological or adoptive parent, or your parent’s spouse) required to provide information on your FAFSA form.

As a student, you’ll be required to enter your Social Security number (SSN) to create a StudentAid.gov account unless you’re a citizen of the Freely Associated States. However, beginning with the 2025–26 FAFSA form, your contributors who don’t have an SSN can create a StudentAid.gov account to complete their section of your FAFSA form.

If a contributor has an SSN, you’re required to provide this number when inviting them to contribute to your FAFSA form. Do not indicate that a contributor doesn’t have an SSN simply because you don’t know that number. If they do in fact have an SSN, indicating that they don’t will cause delays when they try to create an account and contribute the required information on your form.

Have your documents ready.

Be prepared so you can complete your form in one session. You might need the following documents as you fill out the 2025–26 form:

• 2023 Tax returns^*
• Records of child support received
• Current balances of cash, savings, and checking accounts
• Net worth of investments, businesses, and farms

^*Starting with 2025–26 form, you’ll be able to provide consent and approval to have most of your financial information imported directly from the IRS, but you should keep your tax return handy for additional questions.

Learn more about what you need to fill out your FAFSA form. If you gather these things in advance, you’ll be able to complete and submit your form quickly. Any contributors you invite to your form will need to provide the same information for themselves.

Have your contributor information ready.

To invite contributors to your FAFSA form, you’ll be asked to provide their

• first and last name,
• SSN (if they have one),
• date of birth, and
• email address (or mailing address, if they don’t have an SSN).

To avoid issues with your FAFSA form, list contributor information exactly as it appears on their Social Security card or legal identification card. Avoid using numbers or extra spaces when entering their name. If the contributor has a suffix in their name (e.g., John Paul Jr., or John Paul III), leave that out of the invitation. Also, if they have a StudentAid.gov account, make sure the personal information you enter exactly matches the information they provided when creating their account.

When you fill out the FAFSA form, you’ll answer questions that will determine who needs to be a contributor on your form. However, you may be able to identify your contributors now to get a head start on collecting the information you’ll need to invite them to your form.

To find out if your parent(s) will be a contributor on your FAFSA form, check out the Is My Parent a Contributor When I Fill Out My FAFSA^® Form? infographic.

Tips for Filling Out the FAFSA^® Form

You (the student) should complete your section of the form first.

We strongly recommend that you (the student) start the form and complete your section first to save time and prevent errors.

When you fill out the student section, you’ll answer questions to determine your dependency status and if anyone else, such as your parent(s), must contribute to your form. If you don’t start the form first, or if you and your contributors are working in your form at the same time, your contributors may have more difficulty completing their section or may even spend time providing information that’s not required.

Starting the form first will also prevent data entry mistakes, such as your parent accidentally entering their own information when they should be entering yours. Once you’ve completed your section, be sure to send invitations to all contributors to your form before saving and exiting.

Read questions and definitions carefully.

There’ve been major updates to the FAFSA form for the 2025–26 award year, and many questions and definitions have changed. When filling out your form, read each question and definition carefully.

Here are some terms that are new or have newly updated definitions for the 2025–26 form:

• Dependent vs. Independent

If you’re a dependent student, you will report your and your parent’s information.If you’re an independent student, you will report your own information (and, if you’re married, your spouse’s).If you or your parent attempt to report parent information that isn’t required on your FAFSA form, it could create confusion or errors. Before you complete your form, learn more about dependency status. And be sure that you—the student—fill in your section of the form first.

• Parent

The FAFSA form has specific guidelines about which parent’s information to report. Spoiler alert: It has nothing to do with who claims you on their taxes. You can use this guide to help you figure out which parent to report on the FAFSA form.

• Number of Family Members (Family Size)

The FAFSA form has requirements for how you should determine your family size. Read the instructions carefully. Many students incorrectly report this number, especially when the student doesn’t physically live with their parent.

• Unusual Circumstances

This is a terminology change on the 2025–26 FAFSA form. It refers to situations that may prevent a dependent student from obtaining parent information on their FAFSA form because they either cannot contact their parent or contacting the parent poses a risk to the student. In situations such as the ones below, you (the student) may be able to submit your FAFSA form without parent information despite being considered a dependent student:

• You or your parent are incarcerated.
• You have left home due to an abusive or threatening environment.
• You have been abandoned by or estranged from your parents and have not been adopted.
• You were granted refugee or asylee status and are separated from your parents, or your parents are displaced in a foreign country.
• You are a victim of human trafficking.
• You are otherwise unable to contact or locate your parents and have not been adopted.

Learn how to complete your application if you have unusual circumstances.

• Direct Unsubsidized Loan Only

While this isn’t a new question, the flow of the 2025–26 form is a little different if you are a student whose parents are unwilling to provide their information, but don’t have an unusual circumstance (such as those listed above). Most dependent students answer “No” to the Direct Unsubsidized Loan question so that their parents can provide information on their form, and they (the student) can be considered for all types of federal student aid, including Federal Pell Grants.

You should know that if you answer “Yes” to this question, your eligibility for federal student aid won’t be calculated, and you may not be eligible for most types of federal student aid (including Direct Subsidized Loans, federal grants, and federal work-study). After submitting your FAFSA form, a financial aid administrator at your college or career/trade school will need to review your situation to determine if you are eligible to receive a limited amount of Direct Unsubsidized Loan.

• Net Worth of Investments

We’ve outlined some specific items that should and shouldn’t be included as investments on the FAFSA form. For example, a college savings plan like a 529 account is considered an investment, while the value of the home in which you reside and the value of your retirement accounts are not. Find more info about figuring out the net worth of your investments.

• Net Worth of Businesses and Investment Farms

Due to changes in the law, students and families must now report the net worth of businesses and investment farms, even if the business is small in nature (i.e., a family-owned business) or the family lives full-time on a portion of the farm the family owns. Learn more about how to report the net worth of these types of assets on your FAFSA form.

Consult in-form resources if you need help.

Use the help text and help articles (accessible via the question mark icon) embedded in the form if you’re not sure how to answer a question. Changing your answers to questions that impact your eligibility for aid may create errors in the form. If you change your answer to any of the following questions, you may need to delete your form and start over to fix the error.

1. Marital Status – Options are single (never married), Married (not separated), Remarried, Separated, Divorced, and Widowed. Select your status as of the day the FAFSA form is completed.
2. Citizenship – Options are U.S. citizen or national; Eligible noncitizen; and Neither U.S. citizen nor eligible noncitizen. Eligible noncitizens include U.S. nationals (such as natives of American Samoa or Swains Island) and permanent residents. If you indicate you are an eligible noncitizen, you will likely have an A-Number assigned to you, and you will need to provide this number on your form.
3. State of Legal Residence – This is typically the state where your permanent address is located. However, each state determines legal residency differently, and you may not be considered a resident of the state if you haven’t lived there for at least five years. You should contact your college’s or career/trade school’s financial aid office for assistance with this question.

Don’t forget to review, sign, and submit the form!

Review your answers prior to submission.

Protect against form glitches or typos by reviewing all of your answers prior to submission. You can review all of the answers you provided in your section on the review page, which you’ll see before you provide your signature. You can view all of the responses by selecting “Expand All” or expand each section individually. To edit a response, select the question’s hyperlink.

Monitor your form’s status, and don’t forget to submit the FAFSA form after all of your contributors have signed and all sections are completed.

If you’ve been notified that all of your contributors have signed and completed their sections, and your student section is also complete, you should check the sections of your form to ensure that all questions are answered.

1. Log in to StudentAid.gov using your account username and password.
2. Navigate to your account Dashboard.
3. Select “2025–26 FAFSA Form” from the “My Activity” page.
4. Once you’ve accessed your form, review the information submitted in each section.
5. If all sections are complete and all of your contributors have signed, follow the prompts to submit your form.

Once your application is submitted, you can view all of the information entered on your form, along with a summary of who contributed to your form, on the Summary page (accessed from the “My Activity” page of the account Dashboard).

Remember that if you make a mistake, you can correct it in the first half of March.

If you make a mistake when submitting your FAFSA form—for instance, if you submit your form without required contributor information or without your signature—don’t worry. You’ll be able to correct the error as soon as your form is processed in the first half of March. Learn about how to make FAFSA corrections.

Not sure if your form has been processed? We’ll send you an email once it is, but you can also check the status of your form yourself:

1. Log in using your account username and password.
2. Navigate to your account Dashboard.
3. Select “2025–26 FAFSA Form” from the “My Activity” page.

• Renewal of financial aid is not automatic. All applicants must re-apply each year. For additional information financial aid, you may contact the Office of Financial Aid at (803) 327-7402 ext. 8163.
• Keep copies of all forms you and your family used in completing the FAFSA. You should print a copy of your electronic application or your completed paper FAFSA for your records.
• All award packages including athletic, academic, and outside scholarships are coordinated through the Office of Financial Aid. The total financial assistance awarded will never exceed the costs related to attending Clinton College. If a student is eligible for funds, all awards will appear as credits on his/her account after the financial aid award is finalized.
• Students may accept part or all of the financial aid offered. In such cases, it becomes the financial responsibility of students to provide the balance of remaining tuition and fees.
• Always check for scholarship scams.

The purpose of the Office of Financial Aid at Clinton College is to provide financial assistance to students who without such aid would not be able to attend college. The mission of the Office of Financial Aid is to assist students in finding ways to pay for their college education such as scholarships, grants, student loans, and on-campus employment. The Office of Financial Aid at Clinton College makes every effort to provide for the timely delivery of financial assistance to eligible students.Clinton College provides assistance to students enrolled in eligible programs, who demonstrate financial need and have a desire to attend college. The types of aid available include federal grants, scholarships, and limited Federal student loans. All students are encouraged to apply at least six to eight weeks in advance of the term they plan to enter.

Financial need is determined by a standard needs analysis system using confidential data submitted by the parents and/or the student. The needs analysis establishes the financial need by deducting the computed family and/or the student contribution from the total cost of attending Clinton College. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the needs analysis system used by Clinton College. It is used to determine eligibility for Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Federal Direct Student Loans and Federal Work Study.

In order for students to be eligible for Federal Student Aid, they must have either a high school diploma or a recognized equivalent (such as a General Educational Development certificate (GED) or have been homeschooled.

Students receiving Federal Financial Assistance are required to meet the College’s standards of academic progress. Additional, Federal requirements restrict the time frame that students receiving aid have to complete their program and require completion of a minimum number of credit hours each term. Failure to do so may result in termination of financial aid eligibility. Detailed information on the financial aid standards will be issued to all students receiving financial aid.

All awards of need-based financial aid are made annually, and students must reapply each year by completing a new or renewal FAFSA in order to be considered for assistance.

Other related policies:

FINANCIAL AID VERIFICATION POLICY (PDF)

Ms. Kristen Douglas, Financial Aid Director
Email: kdouglas@clintoncollege.edu
(803) 327-7402 ext. 8163

The mission of the Office of Financial Aid is to assist students in finding ways to pay for their college education such as scholarships, grants, student loans, and on campus employment. Most students attending Clinton College receive some form of financial aid. Financial Aid at Clinton College consists of:

Grants – Gift money (does not require repayment or a work commitment) from federal, state, College, or private funds. Grants are awarded on the basis of financial need.

Loans – Money one may borrow from federal sources, College sources, or private lenders. Clinton College financial aid administrators manage these educational loans in accordance to federal financial aid requirements to ensure that your interests are protected. See the Financial Aid Manual.

Work – Money one earns through Federal Work Study employment on campus, in community service agencies, or in approved off-campus jobs.

Scholarships – Gift money (does not require repayment or a work commitment). Scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic achievement, individual talent, and/or possibly some other criteria specified by the donor. These awards may or may not have financial need as a criterion.

All types of financial aid offered at Clinton College requires the completion of one application, the FAFSA.

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the needs analysis system used by Clinton College. It is used to determine eligibility for Federal Pell Grants, Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Federal Direct Student Loans and Federal Work Study.

In order for students to be eligible for Federal Student Aid, they must have either a high school diploma or a recognized equivalent (such as a General Educational Development certificate (GED) or have been home schooled.

Students receiving Federal Financial Assistance are required to meet the College’s standards of academic progress. Additional, Federal requirements restrict the time frame that students receiving aid have to complete their program and require completion of a minimum number of credit hours each term. Failure to do so may result in termination of financial aid eligibility. Detailed information on the financial aid standards will be issued to all students receiving financial aid.

All awards of need-based financial aid are made annually, and students must reapply each year by completing a new or renewal FAFSA in order to be considered for assistance.

All students are encouraged to apply at least six to eight weeks in advance of the term they plan to enter.

Consumer Information: For consumer information, contact the Financial Aid Office at (803) 327-7402 ext. 8163

HS-7: Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program Policy (PDF) (click link to download PDF version of policy)

Policy category: Health and Safety Policies
Subject: Drug and alcohol abuse prevention
Office Responsible for Review: Office of Student Success Related Policies:

• All Financial Aid (FA) policies
• SS-3: Student Code of Conduct
• SS-4: Students’ Rights and Due Process
• SS-6: Residence Hall Student Policies

1. Scope: This policy includes the responsibilities of students and employees to maintain a alcohol and drug-free campus, the Campus Counselor for providing counseling services, and the Dean of Students/Vice President for Student Success for managing publications of policies, managing legal or disciplinary sanctions, and managing the assessment and publication of annual outcomes.
2. Policy statement: The purpose of this policy is to set standards for students’ and employees’ conduct on campus re: use, possession, and distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol; identify the legal and/or disciplinary sanctions for violation of these standards; the health risks associated with abusing drugs and alcohol; the publication of information about the policy and program, and the availability of drug or alcohol counseling, treatment, and rehabilitation/ reentry programs that are available to students and employees.

III. Effective date: This policy is a revision of the previous HS 7: Drug Abuse Policy and the previous SS-5: Student Drug Policy that were placed into the Policy Manual in 2013. This revised and updated version of the policy was approved by the Cabinet on February 23, 2021.

IV. Applicability: This policy applies to all students and employees of Clinton College, their guests, and campus visitors.

5. Policy Management:The following roles are responsible for managing this policy:
   Responsible Office: Office of Student Success
   Responsible Executive: Dean of Students/Vice President for Student Success Responsible Officer: Dean of Students/Vice President for Student Success
6. DefinitionsDAAPP: Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program DFSCA: The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989 IHE: Institution of Higher Education

VII. The Policy Context

The overarching priority of Clinton College with respect to alcohol and drugs is to help ensure the safety and well-being of Clinton College students and employees while complying with all applicable federal, state, and local laws. As part of its educational mission, Clinton College is committed to reducing substance abuse, enhancing the development of responsible behavior regarding the consumption of alcoholic beverages, and devising policies and educational information that will reduce dangerous drinking and drug use. Clinton College aims to improve individual understanding of the risks associated with alcohol and drug abuse.

It is the policy of Clinton College to provide a drug free, safe, healthy, secure, work, and educational environment. Clinton College complies with all federal, state, and local laws including those which regulate the possession, use, and sale of alcoholic beverages, narcotics, illegal drugs, or controlled substances. Clinton College prohibits the unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, presence or use of alcohol, illegal drugs, or other controlled substance on its property or at any of its activities. The manufacture, use, possession, sale, purchase, or transfer of illegal drugs by a student or employee is prohibited by law, and on the campus of Clinton College. All employees and students are required to and expected to meet the expectations, and fulfill the responsibilities of their roles, by reporting to work, class, or student activities, in the appropriate mental and physical condition. The College recognizes the detriment, dangers, and harm, alcohol and drug abuse can have on the members of our campus community and our learning environment.

Commitment to DAAPP and Clinton College mission. The health and safety of our faculty, staff and students remains the top priority of Clinton College, and any alcohol and drug abuse among members of our Clinton College community is a detriment to the individual’s health, and the college’s mission of, educating and preparing students to be leaders in their chosen field of study, and productive citizens in our global society.

Every effort will continue to be made to educate members of the Clinton College community, about the dangers of drugs and alcohol to protect the well-being of members of our Clinton College campus community, and our educational environment. When alcohol and drug abuse education fails to elicit appropriate behavior, Clinton College will continue to appropriately combine campus policy, judicial proceedings, legal sanctions, treatments, and referrals as a response to substance abuse.

Drug-Free Workplace Act. The Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1988 requires recipients of federal monies to provide and maintain a drug-free workplace. In compliance with this federal provision, students and employees should review the Clinton College alcohol and illegal drug policies for a detailed description of standards of conduct, health risks, community resources for support and treatment, institutional disciplinary and criminal sanctions.

Clinton College has no intention of intruding into the private lives of its employees; however, the University does retain the right and responsibility to expect both students and employees to conduct themselves in a manner that will not jeopardize the health and safety of others. Some of the drugs that are illegal under state or federal law include marijuana, heroin, hashish, cocaine, hallucinogens, and depressants and/or stimulants when not prescribed for medical care.

Any student or employee under the influence of illegal drugs or who possesses or consumes illegal drugs on the campus of Clinton College is subject to disciplinary procedures and action, up to and including dismissal from the institution. The illegal manufacture, distribution, or sale of illegal substances on the premises is strictly prohibited and will constitute an offense warranting dismissal. Any illegal substance found shall be turned over to an appropriate law enforcement agency.

As part of the drug-free awareness program, Clinton College will continue to advise and inform students and employees of the dangers of drug use and abuse in the workplace. Upon request, Clinton College will offer non- financial assistance to students and employees seeking treatment or rehabilitation services. Referrals for assistance are available from the Clinton College Counseling Department or Employee Assistance Program.

The Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act of 1989 (DFSCA). The Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Regulations requires that, as a condition of receiving funds or any other form of financial assistance under any federal program, an institution of higher education (IHE) must certify that it has adopted and implemented a program to prevent the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students and employees. If audited, failure to comply with the Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Regulations may cause an institution to forfeit eligibility for federal funding. To certify its compliance with the regulations, an IHE must adopt and implement a drug prevention program to prevent the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by all students and employees both on school premises and as part of any of its activities. Creating a program that complies with the regulation requires an IHE to do the following:

1. Prepare a written policy on alcohol and other drugs.
2. Develop a sound method for distribution of the policy to every student and IHE staff member each year.
3. Prepare a biennial review report on the effectiveness of its alcohol and other drug programs and the consistency of policy enforcement.
4. Maintain its biennial review report on file so that, if requested to do so by the U.S. Department of Education, the campus can submit it.

The following sections address each of these four requirements.

1. The written policy on alcohol and other drugs

Compliance with Drug and Alcohol State and Federal Laws. In compliance with the Drug-Free Schools and Communities Act, the following laws and criminal sanctions are provided to help the Clinton College campus community understand the risks of alcohol/drug consumption, possession, and distribution. This list of regulations may not be exhaustive, and all Clinton College students and employees are encouraged to conduct additional research on substance usage on their own. Clinton College is committed to creating an environment in compliance with local, state, and federal laws.

Federal, State, and Local Alcohol Laws. (Local laws are consistent with state laws.)

• Anyone possessing or consuming an alcoholic beverage must be 21 years of age or older.
• No one under the age of 21 is allowed to purchase or attempt to purchase alcoholic beverages.
• No one over the lawful age is allowed to purchase for or serve an alcoholic beverage to a person under the age of 21.
• No one may use identification fraudulently or allow another person to use one’s own identification fraudulently to obtain alcoholic beverages.State and Local Drug Use Law (Local laws are consistent with state laws.)Persons convicted of the unlawful possession, use or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol can be fined and imprisoned for up to 15 years for the first offense, and as many as 30 years for subsequent offenses. Depending upon the offense, the fines and imprisonment vary but are within the limits noted. Detailed descriptions of offenses and punishments are contained in South Carolina Code Annotated Sections 44-53-40, Sections 163 to 297Federal Drug Law. Federal Drug Law Prohibits the following drug trafficking acts and prescribes the following penalties: https://www.iwu.edu/counseling/Federal_Drug_Laws.htmCampus events. Clinton College prohibits the manufacturing, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of controlled substances, alcohol, or illegal drugs on the campus, and is not permitted at any event.Expectations for students. The purpose of the Clinton College Drug and Alcohol policy is to encourage responsible behavior; regulate the use of alcohol and controlled substances on Clinton College property; support state and local laws; provide a program of intervention, education, and support; and establish appropriate judicial sanctions/employment decisions for those who violate the policy.Clinton College prohibits the manufacturing, distribution, dispensing, possession or use of controlled substances, alcohol, or illegal drugs on the campus, or in any area under the temporary or permanent control of Clinton College. Faculty, staff, students or any Clinton College employee who violate the Alcohol and Drug Policy will face sanctions ranging from a written warning to expulsion/termination from Clinton College.

It is the goal of Clinton College to develop educated students for effective leadership and service in our society. All faculty, staff and students of Clinton College share in the responsibility to maintain an environment that promotes a quality educational experience. The illegal use or abuse of alcohol or a controlled substance by faculty, staff or students, adversely affects our educational environment, and deteriorates the learning environment, that makes Clinton College a special community. Because we are a close campus community, the behavior of one student has an effect on all others.

This policy also recognizes that punishment without education, is not in alignment with the policy’s mission to educate and raise awareness among our Clinton College community(faculty staff, students). Therefore, educational strategies are one of the major approaches to addressing violations. We further recognize that some members of our Clinton College community may need more assistance than the college can provide, and for this reason, in addition to written, warning, and fines; suspension, expulsion or termination are also included as sanctions.

Clinton College expects its students and employees to comply with all the requirements of federal, local, and South Carolina state law. As such, the unlawful possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs and/or drug paraphernalia as defined in South Carolina and federal statutes are prohibited and subject the violator to disciplinary action by Clinton College as well as possible prosecution by local, state, and/or federal authorities. Federal laws, including those governing marijuana, preempt state law and, therefore, apply on Clinton College campus. Clinton College students or employees who disregard the various drug laws are responsible for their actions and are not immune from the legal process by virtue of their educational or employment status. They may also be separated from the institution.

Students who use or sell illegal or prescription drugs will be subjected to disciplinary action by Clinton College. If a Clinton College administrator receives reliable information or other evidence that a student has been, or is currently involved in the trafficking of illegal or prescription drugs, or has been, or is in possession of associated paraphernalia, as to make this a reasonable presumption; criminal and civil authorities may be notified and the student will be temporarily suspend pending an investigation for permanent dismissal in accordance with the Student Handbook.

Students who are accused of placing illegal or prescription drugs in the beverages or food of others will be subject to the same disciplinary procedures as those accused of selling illegal drugs.

Disciplinary Procedures for Students. Clinton College is neither a police agency enforcing the law, nor a sanctuary protecting those who violate laws regarding alcohol or other drugs. Clinton College is vitally invested in maintaining a campus and educational environment that is conducive to physical and psychological safety, intellectual development, and personal maturation. Clinton College acknowledges its obligation to address violations of our drug and alcohol policy that come to its attention.

Although any alcohol-related violation is subject to disciplinary consequences, Clinton College is most urgently concerned with those behaviors and accompanying attitudes that threaten the physical or psychological safety or wellbeing of self or others, infringe upon the rights of others, or are otherwise disruptive to our campus community. Following established guidelines, The V.P. of Student Success or designee will determine disciplinary action resulting from conduct violations in accordance with the Clinton College Code of Conduct.

Sanctions administered to students for a violation of the alcohol and drug policies, (as stated in the code of conduct in the student handbook), depending upon severity and or repeat offenses may include: warning letters, educational programming, community service, probation, removal from student housing, suspension, or expulsion. Students may also be required to appear in front of the Clinton College Judiciary Board; and criminal or civil authorities may be contacted. Students may also be expected to pay restitution for any and all damages occurring as a result of their behavior.

Clinton College Security Officers, Residence Life Staff, faculty, and all other administrators will note and report all alcohol violations that come to their attention whether observed at parties, during class, or other social events, in campus public spaces, or during routine “walk-throughs” of residence halls. All other members of the Clinton College community may call attention to suspected violations of the Alcohol and Drug Policy, and are expected to play an appropriate role in enhancing the safety and well-being of members of the Clinton College community. Reports of violations or suspected violations of the Alcohol and Drug Policy will be made to the Director of Residence Life.

Student Disciplinary Sanctions. The tables below outline the levels of violations and associated consequences.

Alcohol (Category A). Violations include underage possession or consumption; intoxication; possessing / consuming alcohol in an unapproved area; open container in a public area; possession of funnel or other paraphernalia

1st Violation	2nd Violation	3rd violation
Written Notification of Violation Alcohol Education Program	On-campus Behavioral Alcohol Education Program Educational Assignment Disciplinary Probation	Payment for & Completion of an Off-campus Alcohol Education Program CC Judiciary Hearing Suspension/Expulsion

Alcohol (Category B). Violations include providing alcohol to a minor; use of funnels or other paraphernalia; possession or use of a common source of alcohol (kegs, etc.); gross intoxication

Drugs (Category A). Violations include possession or consumption of illegal drugs or illegally obtained prescription drugs; possession of drug paraphernalia; failure to appear for a college-mandated drug test.

Drugs (Category B). Violations include sale or distribution of controlled substances.

If it is determined by a Clinton College official, campus security or law enforcement, that any faculty, staff or student, possess a threat to members of our campus community, Clinton College reserves the right to immediately suspend, expel or terminate the offending faculty, staff or student.

Above all, it must be emphasized that all Clinton College students are responsible for their personal behavior as well as the conduct of their guests. The ingestion of alcohol or other drugs in no way constitutes an excuse for behaviors that violate Clinton College Alcohol and Drug policy, federal or South Carolina state laws, or otherwise infringe upon the rights of others.

Expectations for employees. It is the policy of the Clinton College to provide a safe workplace free from the influence of drugs, alcohol or other controlled substances. Employees are required to report to work unencumbered by the effects of drugs, alcohol or other controlled substances.

The illegal use, distribution, sale or possession of narcotics, drugs, alcohol or controlled substances while on the job or on Clinton College property is prohibited and is a dischargeable offense. Any illegal substance will be turned over to the appropriate law enforcement agency and may result in criminal prosecution. In all circumstances, Clinton College will cooperate with law enforcement officials and agencies as may be required under current law.

1st Violation	2nd Violation
Written Notification of Violation On-campus Behavioral Alcohol Education Program Disciplinary Probation	Payment for & Completion of an Off-campus Alcohol Education Program CC Judiciary Hearing Suspension/Expulsion

1st Violation	2nd Violation
Written Notification of Violation Completion of a Drug Education Program Disciplinary Probation	CC Judiciary Hearing Suspension/Expulsion

1st Violation

CC Judiciary Hearing Suspension/Expulsion

As a condition of employment, employees are required to notify Clinton College of any felony drug statute conviction no later than five (5) days after such conviction. The legal use of over-the-counter or prescription drugs as prescribed by a licensed medical professional is permitted on the job only if it does not impair employees’ abilities to perform the essential functions of their job effectively, with or without a reasonable accommodation, and in a safe manner that does not endanger other individuals in the workplace. Employees taking legally prescribed or nonprescription medications are responsible for being aware of any potential side effects such drugs may have on their reactions, judgment or ability to perform their duties and to report such use to their supervisor. If employees are deemed to be incapable of safely performing their duties while under the influence of such drugs, they will be sent home or other appropriate steps may be taken.

Disciplinary Procedures for Employees. Off the job illegal drug use which adversely affects employees’ job performance or which jeopardizes the safety and well-being of co- workers, students, the public or College property or the reputation of the College or the community is proper cause for disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

The College may test employees for drug or alcohol use: 1) after any accident or 2) for cause.

Violation of this policy may result in any and all of the following:
1) a request by Human Resources for submission to a test for the purposes of determining the use of drugs or alcohol, the refusal of which will be deemed an admission of use; 2) disciplinary action up to and including immediate termination.

Employees who test positive may request a confirming test at his/her expense. Certain limited exceptions may be made by Clinton College in extenuating circumstances. Employees are encouraged to seek counseling and treatment and can get assistance through the Office of Human Resources or Employee Assistance Program.

Health and Developmental Risks of Drug and Alcohol Abuse. Academic research and professional experience demonstrate that the decision to abuse alcohol or use drugs has significant negative effects on a college student’s career. Harvard’s School of Public Health found binge drinking of alcohol to negatively impact a student’s academic performance, their social relationships, and their health. In addition research studies have associated drug use with lower grades, increased likelihood of withdrawing from college, missing classes, depression and anxiety, trouble finding a sense of purpose, and high-risk sexual activity.

Alcohol is a depressant that is absorbed into the bloodstream and transmitted to all systems in the body. Even light to moderate consumption of alcohol reduces physical coordination and mental alertness, making activities such as sports and driving dangerous. Moderate consumption of alcohol causes staggering, slurred speech, double vision, mood swings and unconsciousness. Persistent impotence and loss of libido as well as hepatitis, esophagitis and pancreatitis may occur with heavy alcohol use. Long-term alcohol use increases the risk of liver disease, heart disease, peptic ulcers, and certain types of cancer, complicated pregnancies, birth defects, and brain damage. Heavy or binge drinking may even result in respiratory depression and death. Alcohol use can also cause mood changes and loss of inhibitions as well as violent or self-destructive behavior. Alcohol may produce a strong psychological dependence, and create a physiological addiction that is dangerous. Alcohol is also a contributing factor in many accidents and tragedies.

Marijuana can cause the user to have relaxed inhibitions, increased appetite, euphoria, and disoriented behavior. Overdose symptoms may include paranoia, fatigue, and possibly even psychosis. Withdrawal from marijuana can lead to decreased appetite, insomnia, or hyperactivity.

Narcotics (e.g. opium, morphine, heroin) can cause drowsiness, euphoria, respirator depression, constricted pupils, and nausea. Someone overdosing on narcotics may exhibit shallow breathing patterns, convulsions, clammy skin, coma, and possibly even death. An individual withdrawing from a narcotics addiction can experience watery eyes, loss of appetite, irritability, panic, nausea, and more.

Depressants (e.g. Quaaludes, barbiturates) can cause slurred speech, slowed reaction time, and drunken behavior. Overdosing on a depressant can lead to shallow breathing patterns, dilated pupils, a weak pulse, coma, and possibly even death. Withdrawal from a depressant can include symptoms like anxiety, insomnia, convulsions, or even death.

Stimulants (e.g. cocaine, crack) may lead to an increase in heart rate or blood pressure, heightened alertness, insomnia, or euphoria. An individual overdosing on a stimulant may result in agitation, heightened body temperature, convulsions, hallucinations, or possibly even death. Withdrawal from a stimulant may lead to symptoms of depression, irritability, long periods of sleep, and disorientation.

Hallucinogens (e.g. LSD, amphetamines, DMT) can cause hallucinations, inaccurate perceptions of time and distance, delusions, and paranoia. A hallucinogen overdose can lead to psychosis and possible death.

Education, Counseling, and Treatment. Students concerned about their own substance use or worried about a friend can seek assistance in several places on campus including, the Counseling Center, the Office of Student Success, and the Office of Residential Life. Ultimately, the specific alcohol and drug policies established by Clinton College are intended to respect both the rights of the individual, and the standards of the community. The following DAAP policy informs students and employees about relevant state and federal laws, Clinton College’s policies associated with alcohol and drug use, and the physical and medical consequences of alcohol and drug use. Clinton College’s primary concern is the health and safety of it’s students and employees.

All Clinton College employees and students are urged not only to take care of their own well-being, but to behave in an equally responsible way with their peers. There may be times when health and safety concerns arise from an individual’s excessive drinking or drug use, and in these situations, one should not hesitate to seek help from Clinton College’s Counseling professional, Residential Life staff, Student Success Staff, or contacting local or state police. It should be reiterated for students or employees not to delay or refrain from seeking assistance out of fear of disciplinary actions.

Clinton College provides information to students about alcohol and drug abuse, through orientation programs, workshops, seminars, and assessment tools. Clinton College Counseling & Support Services also provides information through seminars, brochures, pamphlets and counseling. Clinton College supports data which suggest that providing students with correct and accurate information concerning drugs and alcohol; students will decrease their negative decision making pertaining to alcohol and drug use; and improve their mental and physical well-being. Both students and employees are encouraged to seek assistance and support from Clinton College, or professional off- campus entities, if they are experiencing challenges with alcohol consumption, and or, drug abuse. The status of any student or employee will not be jeopardized for seeking early assistance for a substance abuse program.

Student Education and Training. Students will be provided with the following:

1. Annual notification of the student drug and alcohol policy and available resources.
2. Annual orientation for all new and returning student-athletes prior to the start of each academic year on prevention, awareness, and treatment options.
3. Biannual residential hall programming educating students about informed alcohol choices and alcohol content via interactive activities.
4. Annual training for student leaders on identifying signs of drug and alcohol abuse.

Student Support. Any enrolled student at Clinton College is able to receive counseling free of charge, either on a voluntary or referral basis through the office of Counseling and Support Services. For students experiencing challenges with alcohol consumption, and or, drug abuse, the office of Counseling and Support Services, offers confidential counseling, support, assessments and referral assistance. The Counseling & Support Services utilizes the AUDIT, and the GAIN-SS screening tools to assess alcohol consumption, drinking behaviors, and behavioral health disorders including mental health disorders.

Additionally, Clinton College has a collaborative partnership with Keystone Substance Abuse Certified Prevention Specialist, to deliver an evidence-based nicotine and alcohol intervention program through 3rd Millennium Classrooms for students who violate the Alcohol policy. The Certified Prevention Specialist will screen and identify any student who needs additional resources and develop a cessation plan. Students who meet criteria for nicotine addiction will be enrolled into the 3rd Millennium program at no extra cost for students.

Employee Education and Training. Employees are provided with the following:

1. Annual notification of the employee drug and alcohol policy and available resources.
2. Annual training for Campus Safety, Student Affairs, Residential Staff and Athletic staff on prevention, awareness, and first response.
3. Annual training for key employees on identifying signs of drug and alcohol abuse.
4. Annual health and benefit fair where local treatment centers hand out brochures and answer questions.

Employee Support. Clinton College contracts with a health care provider to provide Employee Assistance Programs and services for all employees. These programs and services include confidential counseling for employees and family members experiencing substance use concerns, as well as referrals to appropriate agencies for treatment options.

2. Method for annual distribution of the policy to every student and employee

On an annual basis, the federal Drug-Free Schools and Campuses Act 1989 (DFSCA) requires institutions of higher education to disseminate information related to their Drug and Alcohol Abuse Prevention Program (DAAPP). Our dissemination includes the publication of DAAPP on the Clinton College.

The annually distributed written materials contain the following information:

1. Standards of conduct that prohibit unlawful possession, use of illicit drugs and alcohol on the property or as a part of its activities
2. A description of the health risks associated with the use of illicit drugs and abuse of alcohol
3. A description of applicable legal sanctions under local, state or federal law
4. A description of counseling or treatment programs
5. A clear statement and description of the disciplinary sanctions the institution will impose on students and employees.

Distribution of DAAPP to students

The DAAPP will be sent to all enrolled student’s Clinton College email after the enrollment period has closed for Fall and Spring semesters, ensuring that all enrolled students receive the information and are captured in the data. Additionally, the DAAPP and related policies are included in the Clinton College online student orientation, our face-to- face orientation, and during our welcome week events. Face-to-face new student orientations are provided the week prior to the start of fall and spring terms.