Best Practices for Hold Administration

Clear Communication

• Website and messages clearly explain the hold’s purpose, resolution steps, and appeal process.
• Use student-friendly language that frames holds as a tool for student success and support.
• Conduct proactive outreach through multiple contact attempts using email plus phone or text.

Removing Holds

• Remove holds within one business day, including during finals and academic breaks.
• Use automated removal, bulk resolution, or shared staff access whenever possible.
• Notify students by email whenever temporary or permanent holds are placed.

Hold Timing

• Provide notice at least two weeks before placement.
• Place holds before Week 6 or at least two weeks before priority registration opens.
• Use future-dated effective dates whenever possible for priority registration holds.
• Place holds immediately only for urgent safety or wellbeing concerns.

Student Data

• Maintain timely and accurate hold and resolution records.
• Share matriculation data daily with UESS and the Registrar.
• Use data to support coordinated outreach, early identification, and proactive student support.

Access and Equity

• Ensure holds have equitable impact and accessible resolution processes.
• UESS, the Registrar, and Institutional Research collaborate on disaggregated reporting.
• Implement process changes immediately if inequities are identified.