Valley Stream, NY asked in Education Law, Legal Malpractice and Small Claims for New York

Q: Can I get a lawyer for an overlooked application to a degree program in college?

I applied for a nursing program at a local community college within the deadline period. I’ve been waiting for an acceptance letter, which was to be sent out the 3rd week of April. It turns out my application was never put in the system and I was completely overlooked, while my grades are higher than those who got accepted. They are telling me i waited too long to follow up on my application - but I just expected them to do their jobs! Turns out the decisions have been made and now I have to wait 6 more months to apply again. Can I get a lawyer to get in the program due to their error?

2 Lawyer Answers
Michael David Siegel
Michael David Siegel
Answered
  • Education Law Lawyer
  • New York, NY
  • Licensed in New York

A: No. You were not discriminated against. You were just a victim of bureaucratic error. You have no contract with them just by applying. I see no case.

George E. Patsis
George E. Patsis
Answered
  • Education Law Lawyer
  • Lindenhurst, NY
  • Licensed in New York

A: You may be able to seek recourse through an Article 78 proceeding. It will be quicker and less expensive to apply for the next semester.

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