St. George, UT asked in Education Law and Consumer Law for California

Q: I attended a Fashion school, called FIDM, and they recently sold their school to Arizona State / a French school

Now I feel like the prestige is gone in my degree and I owe tuition still for what I feel for no reason. I’m lost of what to do now!

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1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered
  • Consumer Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA
  • Licensed in California

A: In California, when an educational institution undergoes a change such as a merger or acquisition, it does not automatically devalue your degree or credits. The prestige and recognition of your degree largely depend on the reputation of the new institution and how the transition is managed.

Regarding your tuition obligations, these typically remain binding as per the initial agreement you signed with FIDM. Changes in the institution's ownership or affiliations usually do not affect existing contracts with students, unless explicitly stated otherwise.

If you feel that the change has materially impacted the value of your education, you may explore options such as discussing with the school administration, seeking academic advising, or consulting with a legal professional experienced in educational law. They can provide personalized advice considering the specific details of your situation.

Remember, your skills, knowledge, and the effort you put into your education hold intrinsic value. These aspects are often as important as the name of the institution when it comes to career opportunities and professional growth.

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