Complaint Review: Nation High School

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, the Better Business Bureau issued a consumer warning about Nation High School, a privately-run, online study program based in Charlotte. Consumers from 17 states have filed 29 complaints with the BBB against Nation High School in just the last eight months. Of these 29 complaints, Nation High School (BBB Grade F) has failed to respond to 20 of them. Additionally, more than 1,700 consumers have contacted the BBB to inquire about Nation High School during the same time period. 

Complaints filed with the BBB focus on the school’s advertising and sales practices, refund policies, and customer service issues. Nation High School charges fees which range from $150-$800 depending upon the GED or diploma program that the student pursues. However, complainants reported that they have not received the diplomas and certificates after paying the requisite fees and completing the online study course. Complainants have also reported that they have been unable to reach Nation High School officials to obtain refunds of the fees paid, or to find out why they have not received their degree or GED certificate. 

“It’s unfortunate that students who are trying to better their lives by completing their education are being taken advantage of,” said BBB President Tom Bartholomy. “Complainants are telling us that Nation High School appears to be a diploma mill where you pay for a piece of paper that turns out to be worthless.” 

Complainants further allege that Nation High School’s advertising and sales practices are misleading. On the school’s website (www.nationhighschool.com), Nation High School promotes that its programs are accredited. However, complainants question the validity of Nation High School’s accreditation based on their experiences after applying to colleges. 

Victor Moore of Charlotte wanted to further his education, so he completed Nation High School’s study program and paid $250 for his degree. As he applied to colleges, he found out that his Nation High School degree was not accepted. In his BBB complaint, Moore said that college admissions officials told him that Nation High School was “red-flagged” as a school that was not properly accredited.  

Nation High School contact information - President, Stephen O’Neal, 3141 Piper Lane, Suite E, Charlotte, N.C., 28208, (704) 727-8505 or 1-(888) 727-8505.  Link to Nation High School’s BBB report: http://www.bbb.org/charlotte/business-reviews/schools-home-study/nation-high-school-in-charlotte-nc-218555