Membership

Who may join the 568 Group?

Membership in the 568 Presidents' Group is open to any college or university that admits all students on a need-blind basis - that is, without considering the financial circumstances of the student or the student's family in the admissions process. [See the current list of members and the legal definition of need blind at §568(c)(6).]

How does one join the Group?

Eligible institutions must first complete the Memorandum of Understanding, which confirms the institution's agreement to participate in the 568 President's Group as well as their willingness to adhere to the guidelines contained therein. The memo must be signed by the President or another senior administrator. The institution must also complete the Certification of Compliance, confirming that the institution has reviewed and understands the 568 statute and currently admits students on a need-blind basis. Once these documents have been received, the institution will be sent a welcome letter from the Chairman and an invoice for membership dues (currently $1,000).  In order to be a member in good standing of the 568 Presidents' Group, an institution must have: paid its dues, signed the Memorandum of Understanding, and completed the Certification of Compliance.  The A re-certification shall be required annually.

Can an institution participate in any of the 568 Group activities without joining the Group?

Only need-blind institutions may participate in the activities of the 568 Group. Non-member institutions that are need blind and have an interest in attending Need Analysis Council meetings and workshops sponsored by the Group may be invited to do so by contacting the support staff and completing a Certification of Compliance.  A modest registration fee will be charged to non-members who are invited to attend such events. Institutions that are not need blind are not eligible to participate in the activities of the Group, but nothing precludes them from making a unilateral decision to employ the Consensus Approach Methodology in their financial aid practices.