Ethical and Professional Standards Flashcards

A CEP discovers that a colleague is accepting undisclosed referral fees from a college. What is the most appropriate first step?

Answer: Confront the colleague privately and encourage disclosure or cessation

IECA ethics require planners to address colleague misconduct, starting with a direct conversation before escalating to formal channels.

Which situation BEST illustrates a conflict of interest for a CEP?

Answer: Receiving compensation from a test-prep company for each student referred without disclosing this to families

Undisclosed financial arrangements with third parties create a direct conflict of interest that violates transparency standards.

A CEP is asked by a parent to write the student's college application essay. The ethical response is to:

Answer: Coach the student on content and structure but ensure the student authors the final essay

CEP ethics prohibit ghostwriting essays; planners may guide and provide feedback, but the student must be the true author.

How should a CEP handle a situation where a student's learning disability requires accommodations that colleges must know about, but the student refuses to disclose?

Answer: Respect the student's autonomy and not disclose without consent, while advising on the benefits of disclosure

Student confidentiality and autonomy must be respected; the CEP can counsel on the advantages of disclosure but cannot act without consent.

Which practice aligns with the IECA commitment to student-centered advising?

Answer: Tailoring recommendations to each student's unique academic profile, interests, and goals

Student-centered advising means individualizing counsel based on the specific needs and aspirations of each student.

A CEP is offered a complimentary resort stay by a college's admissions office. According to ethical standards, the planner should:

Answer: Decline the gift as it could compromise objectivity and must be disclosed if accepted

Gifts from colleges can create perceived or actual bias; IECA standards require declining or fully disclosing such benefits to clients.

What does 'informed consent' require a CEP to provide to a new client family?

Answer: A clear explanation of services, fees, limitations, and the planner's professional background before the engagement begins

Informed consent demands full transparency about scope, cost, credentials, and limitations before any professional relationship is established.