Business Office Land: Learn About the Business Office Holds Process

What is the difference between a soft and a hard hold in the Business Office? Knowing the difference between soft and hard holds can decrease your chances of falling behind on your financial obligations to the College. Let’s first dive into the world of soft holds.

A soft hold is a hold that the Business Office uses to identify students who owe an account balance at the College in the current term. Typically, a student will receive this soft hold when they’re on a payment plan for the current term. This hold is also helpful for other departments, as a soft hold permits a student to access their full academic record, register for classes in future terms, and receive their diploma or graduation regalia during commencement season. Students need to remember that soft holds only apply when a student remains current on their agreed-upon payment plan arrangement with the Business Office.

A hard hold is a hold that the Business Office uses to identify students who owe an outstanding account balance to the College. These account balances can be for the current term or previous terms. Unlike a soft hold, a hard hold prevents a student from accessing their full academic transcript, which means students will need to rectify their account balance before seeing their final grades. In addition, a hard hold also prevents registration in future semesters. While this action may seem punitive, it provides students with an opportunity to settle their previous account balance before incurring a new one. Students who are graduating may not be able to receive their diplomas or graduation regalia until they resolve the outstanding account balance.

To avoid a hard hold, the Business Office encourages students to contact the office before the start of a semester to arrange a satisfactory payment plan. Remaining current on account payments during the payment plan will also prevent a hard hold. If you are having issues with making payments on one of the College’s installment plans, please consult a Business Office staff member to learn more about extended payment plan options. Please note that extended payment plan options may result in a hard hold. It’s in the best interest of all students to resolve hard holds promptly.
Memorizing the differences between the holds system is not that challenging. Remembering the key differences between the two holds can prevent future frustrations when signing up for a payment plan or making account payments. As always, students with questions about their account balance or the reason for their account being on hold should contact the Business Office by emailing [email protected] or calling 302-225-6268.