If you were a Black or female student enrolled in the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program at Walden University between August 1, 2008, and January 31, 2018, you may be eligible to claim a portion of a class action settlement.
Walden University has agreed to pay $28,500,000 to settle a class action lawsuit for allegedly misrepresenting the true cost of its DBA program and disproportionately impacting Black and female students.
Who are the class members?
To be considered a class member, you must meet specific criteria:
- You were a Black student enrolled in Walden University's DBA program between August 1, 2008, and January 31, 2018, and completed more capstone credits than the minimum stated by Walden.
- You were a Black student who enrolled in the DBA program during the specified period, completed excess capstone credits, and applied for or received student loans or payment plans.
- You were a female student who enrolled in the DBA program during the specified period, completed more capstone credits than the minimum required, and applied for or received student loans or payment plans.
How much can class members get?
The estimated average compensation is $10,000 per class member, which is a portion of the $21,175,000 fund designated for payments.
The amount each member receives will be calculated based on the number of excess capstone credits completed. For example, if a class member completed 44 excess credits and all valid claims total 90,000 excess credits, that member would receive 44/90,000 of the compensation pool, approximately $10,000.
How to claim an award
To claim an award, you must complete a claim form. You can file a claim online or mail a completed form to:
Carroll v. Walden University, LLC Claims Administrator
c/o Settlement Services, Inc.
PO Box 2715
Portland, OR, 97208-2715
Claimants need to provide proof of their enrollment and completion of excess credits. This includes documents like transcripts, enrollment agreements, and payment records.
Ensure your claim form is submitted or postmarked by January 15, 2025.
Payment methods
- Payments will be distributed via check or direct deposit, depending on the information provided in your claim form.
$28.5 Million settlement fund
The settlement fund of $28,500,000 will cover:
- $21,175,000 for class member payments
- $7,125,000 for attorneys' fees and costs
- $100,000 for administrative costs
- $100,000 for class representatives
Important dates
- Deadline to File a Claim: January 15, 2025
- Final Approval Hearing: October 17, 2024
When is the Walden University DBA Settlement payout date?
After the final approval hearing on October 17, 2024, the settlement will be finalized, and payments will be processed for eligible class members who submitted valid claims.
Why is there a class action settlement?
The lawsuit alleged that Walden University misrepresented the true cost of its DBA program by understating the number of capstone credits required. This practice allegedly targeted Black and female students, leading to a disproportionate impact. The settlement was reached to resolve these claims without admitting wrongdoing.
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