RFP_7011_International_Student_Recruitment_Services.pdf

Contract and Procurement Management Division of Business and Financial Affairs San Diego State University 5500 Campanile Drive San Diego, CA 92182-1616 619-594-5243 / 619-594-5919 (fax) Web address: http://bfa.sdsu.edu/financial/procurement

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL (RFP) 7011

FOR

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT RECRUITMENT SERVICES AND IN-COUNTRY

COORDINATOR

PROPOSAL DATA

Date: May 8, 2024 Description: International Student Recruitment Services and In-Country Coordinator Contact: Clarinda Luciano-Ramirez, Buyer III Lead, Procure to Pay E-mail: Clucianoramirez@sdsu.edu

QUESTION DEADLINE

Date: May 17, 2024 Time: 2:00 p.m. PDT Purpose: To address questions or concerns regarding any part of this proposal package.

Please submit all questions by posting them to:

https://www.planetbids.com/portal/portal.cfm?CompanyID=25796)

Questions received after the deadline may not be answered.

PROPOSAL DUE DATE

Date: May 31, 2024 Time: 2:00 p.m.

Location: https://www.planetbids.com/portal/portal.cfm?CompanyID=25796)

Submit one original proposal prior to the date and time specified and through electronic upload to PlanetBids. Proposers shall respond to the solicitation by electronic file upload only before the date and time set forth in the RFP. Mistakes or delays in the submission are entirely the responsibility of the Proposer.

PRE-PROPOSAL CONFERENCE

Date: A pre-proposal conference has not been scheduled for this solicitation.

http://bfa.sdsu.edu/financial/procurement https://www.planetbids.com/portal/portal.cfm?CompanyID=25796

Cover Letter

RFP 7011

RFP CONTENT

This Cover Letter to the RFP Request for Proposals (RFP) 7011 APPENDIX A: Supplemental Solicitation Provisions APPENDIX B: Proposal Certification Form APPENDIX C: Bidder Declaration Form APPENDIX D: Sample Agreement and General Provisions APPENDIX E: Payee Data Record, STD 204 APPENDIX G: Policy and Procedures Governing Travel and Relocation Expenses Reimbursement https://bfa.sdsu.edu/financial/travel/

PLANETBIDS SUBMISSION

Interested Proposers must register with PlanetBids at https://www.planetbids.com/portal/portal.cfm?CompanyID=25796. Obtaining documents via any other method does NOT make the Contractor a Proposer or Record. Planetbids sends notifications to prospective proposers; however, the University recommends that the proposers periodically check the PlanetBids website for modifications to RFP documents. The University is not responsible for the prospective proposer’s misunderstanding of the RFP solicitation or a nonresponsive proposal due to failure to check the website for updates or addenda to RFP documents, and/or other information regarding the RFP solicitation. Failure to periodically check this website will be at the proposer’s sole risk.

The University assumes no responsibility for delay in submission of the proposal through the PlanetBids system. Submittal of responses by mail, personal delivery, courier service, fax or email is not acceptable.

https://bfa.sdsu.edu/financial/travel/

Cover Letter

PROTESTS

Proposers filing a protest of the specifications and/or requirements shall submit such protest prior to the scheduled submittal deadline. Proposers filing protest of contract award must do so within five (5) business days after Notice of Intent to Award. The protesting Proposer shall submit a full and complete written statement detailing the facts in support of the protest. Protest must be sent by certified or registered mail, email, facsimile, or delivered in person to the University contact shown on page one (1). A protest decision will be provided and will be in writing and sent by certified or registered mail, email, facsimile or delivered in person to the protesting Proposer.

The Protest decision made by the University is final.

This RFP does not constitute an order for the goods or services specified

TABLE OF CONTENTS

SECTION 1 PURPOSE, OVERVIEW, AND TERM

SECTION 2 SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

SECTION 3 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS AND PROPOSER’S CERTIFICATION

SECTION 4 SCOPE OF WORK…………………………

SECTION 5 QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS

SECTION 6 EVALUATION AND SELECTION CRITERIA

SECTION 7 INSRUCTIONS, CONTENT AND FORMAT:

o ATTACHMENT No. 1: QUALIFICATIONS o ATTACHMENT No. 2: REFERENCES o ATTACHMENT No. 3: PERSONNEL EXPERTISE o ATTACHMENT No. 4: PRICE PROPOSAL FORM

SECTION 1: PURPOSE, OVERVIEW, AND TERM

1.1 PURPOSE. San Diego State University (University), Enrollment Services Department is requesting proposals from firms qualified to provide International Student Recruitment Services and In-Country Coordinator. The proposals will be evaluated by a committee selected by the university and award will be made in the best interest of the University.

1.2 BACKGROUND. Since its founding in 1897, the university has grown to become a leading public research university, and a federally designated Hispanic-serving Institution. Each year, SDSU provides more than 37,000 students with the opportunity to participate in an academic curriculum distinguished by direct contact with faculty and an international emphasis that prepares them for a global future. SDSU takes pride in more than a century of achievement in education, research, and service. The university ranks fifth in the country for students studying abroad and in the top 10 for diversity; Forbes, Fortune and U.S. News & World Report rank SDSU in the top 25 nationally for innovation and entrepreneurship. Renowned for its academic excellence, SDSU is home to top-ranked graduate programs and offers bachelor's degrees in 95 areas, master's degrees in 78 areas and doctorates in 22 areas. As the oldest higher education institution in San Diego, uniquely situated only 30 minutes north of the U.S.-Mexico border, our community is fully committed to excellent teaching, meaningful research and service to our binational region, and the world at large. SDSU is alma mater to more than 480,000 alumni. For more information, log on to www.sdsu.edu.

1.3 PROJECT OVERVIEW. The services provided by the Contractor shall include, but not limited to, recruiting and screening prospective students, facilitating interviews and providing project management services. Services shall include complete data analysis and evaluate recruitment strategies as well as providing prospective students with advice about immigration and/or visa processes.

1.4 AWARD OF CONTRACT. The University intends to award contract to a Primary Contractor whose proposal are determined to offer the best value to the University.

1.5 RFP RULES AND INSTRUCTIONS. The rules governing this RFP are stated in Section 7

- (Instructions, Content, and Format). Proposers are advised to carefully read, understand, and comply with these requirements in preparing a response to this RFP.

1.6 TERM. The contract term is anticipated to be for an initial (base) period of two (2) years with two (2) two-year options to extend.

(End of Section 1)

SECTION 2: SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Release of Request for Proposal May 8, 2024

Last Day to Submit Questions for Clarification (2:00 p.m. PDT) May 17, 2024

Deadline for Submission of Proposals (2:00 p.m. PDT) May 31, 2024

Interview/Presentations (Optional) TBD

Notice of Intent to Award (NOIA) TBD

Protest Period (5 working days after NOIA) TBD

Contract Award June 2024

QUESTIONS WILL ONLY BE ACCEPTED VIA PLANETBIDS. Responses to questions and addendums will be posted website at the PlanetBids website:

https://www.planetbids.com/portal/portal.cfm?CompanyID=25796

The dates up to and including the “Deadline for Submission of Proposals” date may be adjusted upon advance written notice. Dates after the receipt of proposals may be adjusted without written notice. Additional RFP steps may be included at the discretion of the University.

PROPOSALS NOT RECEIVED BY THE DATE AND TIME SPECIFIED WILL BE

REJECTED.

(End of Section 2)

SECTION 3: SOLICITATION PROVISIONS AND PROPOSER’S CERTIFICATION

3.1 SOLICITATION PROVISIONS.

3.1.1 DEFINITIONS

a. The Trustees of the California State University are referred to as “San Diego State University,” “University” or “Trustees.”

b. The terms “bid” and “proposal” are synonymous and means an offer made in response to a solicitation to perform a contact for work and labor or to supply goods at a specified price, whether or not it is considered a “seal bid” or results in award of a contract to a single or sole source.

c. “Bidder” or “Proposer”, “Contractor” is used to interchangeably and each shall apply to the business entity which submits a bid/proposal or is awarded a contract.

3.1.2 RESERVATION OF RIGHTS

The University may reject any or all proposals and may waive any immaterial deviation in a Proposal. The University’s waiver of an immaterial defect shall in no way modify the RFP documents or excuse the Bidder from full compliance with the specifications if the Bidder is awarded the contract. Proposals that include terms and conditions other than the University’s terms and conditions may be rejected as being non-responsive. In the event all proposals are rejected or the University determines alternative solutions are in its best interest, the University may cancel this solicitation and pursue alternative sourcing options.

The University may make such investigations as deemed necessary to determine the ability of the Bidder to perform the work, and the Bidder shall furnish all such information and data for this purpose. The University reserves the right to reject any submittal made pursuant to this RFP or any subsequent Proposal or bid if the evidence submitted by, or investigation of, such Bidder fails to satisfy the University that such Bidder is properly qualified to carry out the obligations of the contract and to complete the work specified. Additionally, the University reserves the right to request additional performance guarantees if, in the sole opinion of the University, financial stability or capability cannot be established.

3.1.3 NON-ENDORSEMENT

If selected as a qualified Bidder, the Bidder shall not issue any news releases or other statements pertaining to selection, which state or imply University endorsement of Bidder's services.

3.1.4 DISPUTES/PROTESTS

The University encourages potential Bidders to resolve issues regarding the requirements or the procurement process through written correspondence and discussions. The University wishes to foster cooperative relationships and to reach a fair agreement in a timely manner.

Bidder’s filing a notification to protest must do so within five (5) business days after a Notice of Intent to Award has been publicly posted. The protesting Bidder shall submit a full and complete written statement detailing the facts in support of the protest within 10 calendar days after expressing notification to protest. Protest must be sent by certified or registered mail or delivered in person to the Clarinda Luciano-Ramirez, Buyer III Lead clucianoramirez@sdsu.edu. Within a reasonable time after receipt of the written statement of protest, the University will provide a mailto:clucianoramirez@sdsu.edu decision on the matter. The decision will be in writing and sent by certified or registered mail or delivered in person to the protesting Bidder. The decision of University is final.

3.1.5 AWARD OF CONTRACT

The University reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and to award one or more contracts. Award, if any, will be to the Bidder, whose proposal best complies with all of the requirements of the RFP documents and any addenda. A “Notice of Intent to Award” will be posted publicly for five (5) consecutive working days prior to the award. Written notification will be made to unsuccessful vendors.

The selected Bidder and the University shall commit to negotiation for the final scope of services to be accepted and execution of an agreement, in substantial accordance with the terms and conditions herein, within 30 days of the Notice of Intent to Award. Should the parties be unable to reach final agreement within this time frame, the parties may mutually agree upon a time extension to complete negotiations and contract execution. If the parties are unable to agree upon a time extension, or if the University determines that a time extension would not be beneficial to the project, the University reserves the right to terminate negotiations and proceed with a secondary finalist.

3.1.6 EXECUTION OF THE AGREEMENT

The Agreement shall be signed by the Contractor and returned, along with the required attachments and appendices to the University Contracts and Procurement Management Department within fourteen (14) calendar days from receipt of contract. The period for execution may be changed by mutual agreement of the parties. Contracts are not effective until approved by the appropriate University officials. Any work performed prior to receipt of a fully executed contract shall be at Contractor’s own risk.

3.1.7 FAILURE TO EXECUTE THE AGREEMENT

Failure to execute the Agreement within the time frame identified above shall be sufficient cause for voiding the award. Failure to comply with other requirements within the set time shall constitute failure to execute the Agreement. If the successful Bidder refuses or fails to execute the Agreement, the University may award the Agreement to the next qualified Bidder.

3.1.8 CONFLICT OF INTEREST

Potential Contractors are advised that Contractor's officers and employees shall comply with the disclosure, disqualification, and other provisions of California's Political Reform Act of 1974 (Government Code Section 81000 et seq.) if their responsibilities include the making or participation in the making of a University decision.

3.1.9 DISABLED VETERAN BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DVBE) INCENTIVE

In accordance with Government Code section 14838(f), and Military and Veterans Code sections 999.5(a) and 999.5(d), the Trustees shall grant a bid incentive for bid evaluation purposes only.

The level of DVBE incentive will correlate to the level of participation; that is, the more DVBE participation proposed, the higher the incentive. A non-small business cannot displace a California certified small business from the top ranked position due to application of preferences or incentive.

The bid incentives levels are as follows:

DVBE Participation on this contract

Incentive

1% 1% 2% 2% 3% 3% 4% 4% 5% and above 5%

In solicitations where an award is to be made to the highest scored bidder based on evaluation bidder’s total score. In solicitations where an award is to be made to the low bid, the incentive is a percentage of the low bid total.

If requesting the DVBE Incentive, then complete Appendix C, the Bidder Declaration Form, and indicate the total DVBE participation.

For further information on DVBE participation requirements or incentive for this project, contact Clarinda Luciano-Ramirez, Buyer III Lead, San Diego State University Small Business & DVBE Advocate at clucianoramirez@sdsu.edu.

3.1.10 SMALL BUSINESS PREFERENCE

The State of California requires agencies to provide a five percent (5%) preference to Proposers or Bidders who qualify as either California certified small businesses or non-small businesses that commit 25% of the contract value to California certified small businesses. To be eligible, the small businesses must be certified by The Office of Small Business and DVBE Services. The rules and regulations of this law, including the definition of a small business for the delivery of services, are contained in Title 2, California Government Code, Section 14838, et seq. and Title 2, California Administrative Code, Section 1896, et seq.,. Copies of the codes and regulations are available online or upon request.

If requesting the Small Business Preference, then complete Appendix C, the Bidder Declaration Form, and indicate the total Small Business participation.

The use of the Small Business Preference shall be in compliance with the law and specifically Government Code Section 14838.B.2. In solicitations where an award is to be made to the highest scored bidder based on evaluation factors in addition to price, the preference to small businesses or microbusiness shall be 5 percent of the highest responsible bidder’s total score. The preference to non-small business bidders that provide for small business or microbusiness subcontractor participation shall be up to a maximum 5 percent of the highest responsible bidder’s total score, determined according to rules and regulations established by the Department of General Services. In solicitations where an award is to be made to the low bid, the preference is applied by factoring 5 percent of a non-small business low bid total and subtracting this amount from the small business bid total.

3.1.11 Accessibility Technology Initiative – Section 508

California Government Code 11135 requires that the University comply with Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, and to apply the accessibility standards published by the U.S. Access Board for electronic and information technology (EIT) products and services that it buys, creates, uses, and maintains.

EIT is any equipment, interconnected system, or subsystem of equipment used in the creation, conversion, or duplication of data or information. EIT is defined by the Access Board at 36 CFR

1194.4 and in the FAR at 2.101. EIT includes:

a. Telecommunication products, such as telephones;

b. Information kiosks;

c. Transaction machines;

d. World Wide Web sites;

e. Software and Operating Systems;

f. Computers;

g. Multimedia (including videotapes), and;

h. Office equipment, such as copiers and fax machines.

3.1.12 Patent, Copyright, and Trade Secret Indemnity

A contractor may be required to furnish a bond to the San Diego State University against any and all loss, damage, costs, expenses, claims and liability for patent, copyright and trade secret infringement.

3.1.13 Accommodations for the Disabled

It is the policy of the University to make every effort to ensure that its programs, activities and services are available to all persons, including persons with disabilities. Persons with a disability needing a reasonable modification to participate in the procurement process, or persons having questions regarding reasonable modifications for the procurement process may contact the buyer listed elsewhere in this solicitation.

3.1.14 PUBLIC CONTRACTS CODE RESTRICTIONS FOR SAN DIEGO STATE

UNIVERSITY EMPLOYEES

The San Diego State University employees and immediate past employees must comply with restrictions regarding contracting with the University. Bidder needs to be aware of the following provisions regarding current or former University employees. In submitting a bid, Bidder certifies that the Bidder is eligible to contract with the University pursuant to the Public Contracts Code (PCC) sections list below:

a. Current University Employees (PCC Section 10831):

i. No officer or employee shall engage in any employment, activity or enterprise from which the officer or employee receives compensation or has a financial interest and which is sponsored or funded by any University department through or by a University contract unless the employment, activity or enterprise is within the course and scope of the officer’s or employee’s regular University employment.

ii. No officer or employee shall contract on his or her own behalf as an independent Bidder with any University department to provide goods or services.

iii. This prohibition does not apply to officers or employees of the University with teaching or research responsibilities.

b. Former University Employees (PCC Section 10832):

i. For the two-year period from the date he or she left University employment, no former

University officer or employee may enter into a contract in which he or she engaged in any of the negotiations, transactions, planning, arrangements or any part of the decision-making process relevant to the contract while employed in any capacity by any University department.

ii. For the twelve-month period from the date he or she left state employment, no former University officer or employee may enter into a contract with any Univesrity department if he or she was employed by that University department in a policy-making position in the same general subject area as the proposed contract within the 12-month period prior to his or her leaving University service.

3.1.15 LOSS LEADER

It is unlawful for any person engaged in business within this state to sell or use any article or product as a “loss leader” as defined in Section 10730 of the Business and Professions Code.

“Loss leader” means any article or product sold at less than cost:

a. Where the purpose is to induce, promote, or encourage the purchase of other merchandise; or

b. Where the effect is a tendency or capacity to mislead or deceive purchasers to prospective purchases; or

c. Where the effect is to divert trade from or otherwise injure competitors.

3.1.16 BRAND NAMES

Any reference to brand names is intended to be descriptive, but not restrictive, unless otherwise specified. Proposals meeting the indicated standards of quality will be considered, unless otherwise specified, providing the proposal clearly describes the article offered and how it differs from the referenced brands. Unless the contractor specifies otherwise in the proposal, it is understood the Contractor is offering referenced brands as specified. The University reserves the right to determine whether a substitute offer is equivalent to and meets the standards of quality indicated by the brand name references. The University may require a contractor offering a substitute to supply additional descriptive material and sample.

3.1.17 SUSTAINABILITY

Bidders must present information describing their current sustainable practices, to include, as applicable, the areas of natural resources, company operation and positive social/community impact, written policy statement, sustainable business practices and environmentally preferable purchasing practices or updates to Vendor’s sustainable practices, as applicable as requested in Appendix F.

3.2 BIDDER’S CERTIFICATION.

By submitting a proposal, the Bidder certifies to comply with the following:

3.2.1 AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA)

Bidder assures the University that it complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability, as well as all applicable regulations and guidelines issued pursuant to the ADA. (42 U.S.C. 12101 et seq.).

3.2.2 UNFAIR PRACTICES ACT

Bidder warrants that its bid complies with the Unfair Practices Act (Business and Professions Code Section 17000 et seq.).

3.2.3 VIOLATION OF AIR OR WATER POLLUTION LAWS

Unless the contract is less than $25,000.00 or with a sole-source provider, Government Code Section 4477 prohibits the State from contracting with a person, including a corporation or other business association, who has been determined to be in violation of any State or federal air or water pollution control law. By a proposal the Bidder warrants that the Bidder has not been found to be in violation of any order or resolution not subject to review promulgated by the State Air Resources Board or an air pollution district, or is subject to a cease and desist order not subject to review issued pursuant to Section 13310 of the Water Code for violation of waste discharge requirements or discharge prohibitions, or is finally determined to be in violation of provisions of federal laws relating to air or water pollution. By submitting a bid, the Bidder certifies that it has not been identified either by published notices or by Board notification as a person in violation of State or federal air or water pollution control laws.

3.2.4 COMPLIANCE WITH NLRB ORDERS

In submitting a bid or signing a contract the Bidder swears under penalty of perjury that no more than one final, unappealable finding of contempt of court by a federal court has been issued against the Bidder within the immediately preceding two-year period because of the Bidder's failure to comply with an order of a federal court which orders the Bidder to comply with an order of the National Labor Relations Board. This provision is required by, and shall be construed in accordance with, Public Contract Code Section 10296.29.

3.2.5 ASSIGNMENT OF ANTITRUST ACTIONS

The Bidder's attention is directed to the following provisions of Government Code Sections 4552, 4553, and 4554, which shall be applicable to the Bidder:

In submitting a bid to a public purchasing body, the Bidder offers and agrees that if the bid is accepted, it will assign to the procurement body all rights, title, and interest in and to all causes of action it may have under Section 4 of the Clayton Act (15 U.S.C. Sec. 15) or under the Cartwright Act (Chapter 2, [commencing with Section 16700] of Part 2 of Division 7 of the Business and Professions Code), arising from purchases of goods, materials, or services by the Bidder for sale to the procurement body pursuant to the bid. Such assignment shall be made and become effective at the time the procurement body tenders final payment to the Bidder (Government Code Section 4552).

If an awarding body or public procurement body receives, either through judgment or settlement, a monetary recovery for a cause of action assigned under this chapter, the assignor shall be entitled to receive reimbursement for actual legal costs incurred and may, upon demand, recover from the public body any portion of the recovery, including treble damages, attributable to overcharges that were paid by the assignor but were not paid by the public body as part of the bid price, less the expenses incurred in obtaining that portion of the recovery (Government Code Section 4553). Upon demand in writing by the assignor, the assignee shall, within one year from such demand, reassign the cause of action assigned under this part if the assignor has been or may have been injured by the violation of law for which the cause of action arose and (a) the assignee has not been injured thereby, or (b) the assignee declines to file a court action for the cause of action (Government Code Section 4554).

3.2.6 NONCOLLUSION AFFIDAVIT

By submitting a bid, Bidder hereby certifies that the bid is not made in the interest of, or on behalf of, any undisclosed party; that the bid is genuine and not collusive, false, or sham; that the

Bidder has not directly or indirectly induced or solicited any other Bidder to put in a false or sham bid, and has not directly or indirectly agreed with any Bidder or anyone else to put in a false or sham bid, or to refrain from bidding; that the Bidder has not in any manner, directly or indirectly, sought to fix any overhead, profit or cost element of the bid, of that of any other Bidder, or to secure any advantage against the public body awarding the contract or anyone interested in the proposed contract.

3.2.7 SAFEGUARDS FOR PROTECTING [CAMPUS NAME] INFORMATION ASSETS

By submitting a bid, Bidder acknowledges Federal privacy laws such as Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (Title 15, United States Code, Sections 6801(b) and 6805(b) (2)) applicable to financial transactions and Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (Title 20, United States Code, Section 1232g) applicable to student records and information from student records. In the event that such information is required for the performance of the work specified, the Bidder hereby certifies that it has the appropriate safeguards in place as required by Title 16 Code of Federal Regulation Chapter 1 Section 314.

3.2.8 COVENANT AGAINST GRATUITIES

The Bidder shall warrant that no gratuities (in the form of entertainment, gifts, or otherwise) were offered or given by the Bidder, or any agent or representative of the Bidder, to any officer or employee of the University with a view toward securing the Contract or securing favorable treatment with respect to any determinations concerning the performance of the Contract. For breach or violation of this warranty, the University shall have the right to terminate the Contract, either in whole or in part, and any loss or damage sustained by the University in procuring on the open market any items, which the Bidder agreed to supply, shall be borne and paid for by the Bidder. The rights and remedies of the University provided in this clause shall not be exclusive and are in addition to any other rights and remedies provided by law or under the Contract.

3.2.9 DRUG-FREE WORKPLACE CERTIFICATION

The Bidder certifies under penalty perjury under the laws of the State of California that the Bidder will comply with the requirements of the Drug-Free Workplace Act of 1990 (Government Code, Section 8355 et. seq.) and will provide a drug-free workplace by doing all of that which Section 8355 et seq. requires.

3.2.10 ELECTRONIC WASTE RECYCLING ACT

In submitting a bid for electronic devices, as defined by the Electronic Waste Recycling Act of 2003, Part 3 Division 30 Changer 8.5 of the Public Resource Code, the Bidder certifies that it, and its agents, subsidiaries, partners, joint ventures, and subcontractors for the procurement, have complied with the Electronic Waste Recycling Act of 2003 and any regulations adopted pursuant to the Act, or have demonstrated to the University that the Electronic Waste Recycling Act of 2003 is inapplicable to all lines of business engaged in by the bidder, its agents, subsidiaries, partners, joint venturers, or subcontractors. In addition the Bidder agrees to cooperate fully in providing reasonable access to its records and documents that evidence compliance with the Electronic Waste Recycling Act of 2003.

3.2.11 DARFUR CONTRACTING ACT

PCC sections 10475 et seq., the Darfur Contracting Act of 2008, establish restrictions against contracting with vendors conducting certain types of business in Sudan. The Act sets forth criteria to determine if a vendor is a “scrutinized company” and therefore ineligible to bid on or submit a proposal for State contracts.

Upon submitting a bid, bidders that have had business activities outside of the United States within the previous three years certify that they are not a scrutinized company as defined, or demonstrate they obtained permission under the statute. (PCC §§ 10478, 10477(b).) False certifications shall cause the bid to be invalidated. (PCC § 10479.)

3.2.12 IRAN CONTRACTING ACT

PCC sections 2202 et seq., the Iran Contracting Act of 2010, establish restrictions against contracting with vendors that provide specified levels of goods or services or other investment activities, as defined, in the energy sector of Iran. By submitting a bid in excess of $1 million, bidder certifies that bidder is not a financial institution extending credit to an ineligible vendor on the list published by the California Department of General Services on the web site:

http://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/pd/poliproc/Iran%20Contracting%20Act%20List.pdf (PCC § 2204.) The Act includes certain exceptions. (PCC § 2203(c).)

3.2.13 THE CONGO – SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT

PCC § 10490 establishes restrictions on contracting for certain goods and services relating to compliance with the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. The [CAMPUS NAME] will not accept bids or proposals or contract for goods or services related to products or services from companies designated as a “scrutinized company” by the Federal Government.

By submitting a bid, bidder certifies that they are not a scrutinized company as defined. False certifications shall cause the bid to be invalidated.

For purposes of this section, a “scrutinized company” is a person that has been found to be in violation of Section 13(p) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 by final judgment or settlement entered in a civil or administrative action brought by the Securities and Exchange Commission and the person has not remedied or cured the violation in a manner accepted by the commission on or before final judgment or settlement.

(End of Section 3) http://www.documents.dgs.ca.gov/pd/poliproc/Iran%20Contracting%20Act%20List.pdf

SECTION 4: SCOPE OF WORK

4.1 Service Overview

San Diego State University, International Academic Affairs is seeking services from a qualified Contractor to provide assistance in recruitment efforts, pre-admission advising, outreach and provide project management services.

The Contractor shall provide an In-Country Coordinator that is extremely reliable, dependable, and accurate. The contractor shall have experience with undergraduate international students, and recruitment to US higher education universities. The contractor shall have knowledge of the channel of Indian and international high school-based counselors, international student recruitments agents, Education USA, and Indian Universities.

4.2 Service Requirements

a) The Contractor shall recruit, screen and facilitate interviews for a full time (40 hours per week) In-Country Coordinator to be based and work in India.

b) Upon approval by SDSU, the Contractor shall hire and onboard the In-Country Coordinator.

c) Contractor shall provide desk space in the form of a cubicle or comparable workspace in a dedicated office, support, and access to office staff and functions including data entry.

d) Contractor shall provide setup and support for information sessions and admitted student receptions in target areas.

e) Contractor shall provide mobile phone, landline, and WIFI/internet connection.

f) Contractor shall provide access to a conference room.

g) Contractor shall provide project management services, alumni event organization and assistance with the hosting of visiting SDSU faculty and staff.

h) Contractor shall describe and promote SDSU’s Academic Programs and

Intensive English Programs (IEP) with integrity and accuracy and recruit Prospective Students in an honest, ethical and responsible manner in compliance with all laws governing the jurisdiction in which other Party does business, as well as all United States (federal and state) and other applicable laws, regulations and policies governing the California State University.

i) Contractor shall provide accurate information to Prospective Students about SDSU and its Academic Programs and Intensive English Programs (IEP). This shall only be done by reference to the materials provided by SDSU and, when not available, through direct communication with SDSU.

j) Contractor shall engage in recruitment activities at locations such as high schools and international student fairs.

k) Contractor shall complete data analysis and evaluate recruitment strategies to increase level of engagement and enrollment for designated region.

l) Contractor shall create an annual report for SDSU’s international and leadership team summarizing efforts and strategies.

m) Contractor shall demonstrate extensive knowledge of market trends and effective recruitment strategies within region.

n) Contractor shall ensure that other Party’s employees, agents and representatives, including any affiliates or sub-agencies, comply with the terms of this Agreement.

o) Contractor shall secure prior written approval from SDSU of all oral and written representations and materials (in any language) not provided by SDSU that relate or refer to SDSU and/or its programs (including fee schedules or summaries) and provide SDSU with a copy of all written materials (with English translations) no later than twenty (20) business days before other Party distributes or otherwise uses such materials.

p) Contractor shall encourage prospective Students to submit applications directly to SDSU and when necessary, provide assistance in completing forms and/or applications. Provide Prospective Students and Students with immigration and/or visa advice only as it pertains to their Student status.

q) Contractor shall develop strong partnerships with parents, counselors, and other campus partners assisting with recruitment activities.

r) Contractor shall provide SDSU with market intelligence about the recruitment of students via a weekly report confirming activities undertaken and results obtained during the preceding week.

s) Contractor shall abide by the privacy and personal information laws identified in Article VII.

t) Contractor shall inform Prospective Students the following:

1. Students who come to the United States on a student visa must have a primary purpose of Full-Time Study.

2. Students are required to provide to SDSU a personal email address and permanent address (other than other Party’s address) in their country of permanent residence.

3. Personal information concerning Prospective Students and Students may be made available to Federal and State agencies in compliance with Federal and California law.

4. SDSU is required by law to inform the Federal government of any changes to a Student's enrollment status or other changes of condition which may relate to visa status.

5. Admission decisions are made by SDSU alone, and Other Party gives no input with respect to admission decisions.

6. Students are required to comply with all SDSU policies, including policies relating to timely payment of tuition fees.

7. SDSU reserves the right to dismiss or otherwise discipline Students according to University policies and procedures, which, along with graduation requirements, are accessible on SDSU’s website at www.sdsu.edu.

8. The CSU makes every effort to keep student costs to a minimum. Fees listed in published schedules or student accounts may need to be increased when public funding is inadequate. Therefore, CSU must reserve the right, even after initial fee payments are made, to increase or modify any listed fees, without notice, until the date when instruction http://www.sdsu.edu/ for a particular semester or quarter has begun. All CSU listed fees should be regarded as estimates that are subject to change upon approval by The Board of Trustees.

9. Students shall be required to timely pay any additional expenses (in addition to tuition fees) related to instruction and non-instruction activities. Examples of instruction-related expenses are lab fees and educational field trip fees. Student activity fees are an example of non-instruction expenses.

10. Students will be responsible for paying for the cost of their transportation to and from SDSU and their lodging and meals while at SDSU. SDSU will make reasonable efforts to arrange for transportation from the airport and for on campus housing at Student’s request and expense.

11. Students are required to procure medical insurance that meets the requirements of SDSU and the United States government. Such insurance may be obtained through SDSU. It is also required that any dependents accompanying Students procure health insurance coverage that is comparable to what is required for Students.

(End of Section 4)

SECTION 5: CONTRACTOR QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS

All shall include the following with their proposal submittals (Technical Proposal, Sections 5.1-

5.6 and Price Proposal, Section 5.7) to be considered responsive. Proposers shall elaborate on each question asked below and respond using the same Proposal Format, associating your answers to the referenced categories and questions.

5.1 QUALIFICATIONS/REFERENCES/PERSONNEL EXPERTISE.

Proposer must possess a minimum of five (5) years’ experience as the primary provider of International Student Recruitment Services.

5.1.1 PROPOSALS MUST ADDRESS THE FOLLOWING EXPERIENCE QUESTIONS:

1. Organization’s experience, direct and/or indirect, in the recruitment of international students (general).

2. Organization’s experience with undergraduate international student recruitment to US higher education institutions (specific).

3. Organization’s experience in the recruitment of different segments of international students, to different destinations.

5.1.2 COMPLETE ATTACHMENT No. 1: QUALIFICATIONS. Attach a listing with explanation of defaulted, completed and current contracts similar in nature to the proposed International Student Recruitment Services required in this RFP. Attach additional sheets if necessary.

5.1.3 COMPLETE ATTACHMENT No. 2: REFERENCES. Provide a list of references of higher education/institutions which demonstrate experience in providing services similar in nature required by this RFP. Include company/institution name and address, and name, title, and telephone number of persons to contact. Attach additional sheets if necessary.

5.1.4 COMPLETE ATTACHMENT No. 3: PERSONNEL EXPERTISE. Provide a list of personnel expertise for those lead person(s) that will be assigned to the International Student Recruitment Services for the University. Attach additional sheets if necessary.

5.2 SCOPE OF WORK TECHNICAL APPROACH

5.2.1 Provide specific details to the scope of work requirements your firm can provide in accordance with Section 4. This response should include a detailed description of the approach and plan to be utilized. The detailed plan shall focus on the methodology used for management and execution of the required services. The plan should demonstrate an overall understanding of the Scope of Work to be performed and provide description of accommodating requests for Services. The plan will be evaluated on clarity, comprehensiveness, describe efficiencies and presentation in a thorough concise format. Proposers are encouraged to provide samples of documentation where appropriate.

5.2.2 Provide a summary that demonstrates whether the Contractor currently provides this in-country coordinator service to other higher education institutions in the US and/or other countries (optional: furnish a list of these clients) and the Contractor’s knowledge of the following:

a) Recruitment channels Indian and international high school-based college counselors

b) International student recruitment agents

c) Independent Educational Consultants

d) EducationUSA

e) Indian universities

5.3 SMALL BUSINESS PREFERENCE CERTIFICATION

Proof of certified Small Business status must be submitted at the time the proposals are due and submission of Appendix C

5.4 DISABLED VETERAN BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (DVBE) PARTICIPATION

REQUIREMENT AND INCENTIVE

Proof of Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise must be submitted at the time the proposals are due and submission of Appendix C.

5.5 PROPOSAL CERTIFICATION FORM

All proposers must complete and return the certification form, APPENDIX B, with the proposal response.

5.6 PRICING/COSTS

Complete Attachment No. 4, Price Proposal Form.

(End of Section 5)

SECTION 6: EVALUATION AND SELECTION CRITERIA

6.1 EVALUATION METHOD.

The University will only consider proposals from financially responsible and responsive firms and organizations presently engaged in the business of providing International Student Recruitment Services. The award will be made to the most responsible and responsive vendor or partnership group whose proposal is determined to be the most advantageous to the University based on the evaluation criteria listed below in order of importance.

6.2 EVALUAION METHOD.

All proposals shall be reviewed to verify the Proposer has met the RFP submission requirements.

Proposals that have not followed the rules, do not meet minimum content, requirements, qualifications, quality standards, take unacceptable exceptions to the terms and conditions, or are non-responsive to the required responses in this RFP will be eliminated from further consideration.

Proposals determined to have met the RFP requirements will be reviewed and evaluated by the evaluation team. As a part of this review, the University may require proposing firms or organizations to clarify the information submitted. This clarification process may be conducted through written or electronic correspondence or through an interview with the evaluation team.

Responsive Proposers found to be most qualified to perform the services required, based upon the listed criteria may be required to give oral interview/presentations to the evaluation team as part of the evaluation process. The purpose of interview/presentation is to give proposers an opportunity to demonstrate their ability to perform the scope of work defined in this RFP and clarify outstanding issues. It is in the proposing firm’s best interests to submit a thorough and complete proposal and not depend on the presentation process to provide additional information.

In the case where “finalists” are chosen, these firms and organizations or partnership groups will be selected for an interview and presentation will be notified of the proposed interview date(s) at least one week in advance.

Firms and organizations or partnership groups selected for an interview must present both the dedicated/lead point of contact for the project and the vendor representative with financial decision making authority for the project

From among the “Finalist” the University may select one or more firm(s) and or organization(s) to enter into final proposal negotiations for the RFP award. A proposing firm(s) and or organization(s) may be required to participate in negotiations and to submit best and final price, technical or other revisions to the proposal which may result from such negotiations.

All proposers will be notified in writing once one or more firms have been selected.

The University Evaluation Team make its evaluation based on the criteria below.

6.3 POINT SCORING SCHEDULE.

Evaluation Criteria Points A Qualifications, References, Personnel Experience 30 B Scope of Work Technical Approach 35

C Small Business 5 D Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise 5 E Price 36 Total Possible Points: 111

6.4 EVALUATION CRITERIA.

Proposals will be reviewed, evaluated, and scored in accordance with the point schedule for all evaluation criteria noted below.

A. Qualifications, References, Personnel Experience Points: 30

This section will consider and evaluate Bidder’s proposed team and ability to meet the requirements and sustainability for duration of project. The Bidder’s qualifications shall be evaluated to determine if the Bidder has provided sufficient documentation, that it possesses the required qualifications, and a general overview of the Bidder’s qualifications. The Bidder’s references will also be considered.

B. Scope of Work and Technical Approach Points: 35

This section will consider and evaluate Bidder’s demonstrated understanding of project requirements and the detailed conceptual approach and methodology used to respond to the Scope of Work. Also considered will be the depth and specificity of the Bidder’s overall understanding of the project goals.

C. Small Business Points: 5

A 5% incentive will be applied to qualified proposals: 5 points available.

D. Disabled Veteran Business Enterprise Points: 5

A 5% incentive will be applied to qualified proposals: 5 points available.

E. Price Points: 36

Price will be evaluated based on the proposal providing the best value as indicated on submitted Price Proposal titled Attachment 4. The overall price proposal providing the best value shall receive the maximum points. Attachment 4 shall be submitted separately from the technical proposal.

Price shall remain valid for a period of 90 days from the proposal due date.

(End of Section 6)

SECTION 7: INSTRUCTIONS, CONTENT, AND FORMAT

7.1 SUBMISSION OF PROPOSAL

Proposers must submit a complete original proposal in accordance with the format provided in this solicitation to the University through electronic upload to PlanetBids on or before the date and time set forth in the RFP. Proposers shall respond to the solicitation by electronic file upload only. PROPOSALS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED IF SUBMITTED THROUGH ANY OTHER MEANS (The University will not accept Proposals via mail, personal delivery, courier service or email). It is the Proposer’s responsibility to ensure that the Technical and Price Proposals are submitted through electronic upload to PlanetBids by the date and time listed in the solicitation; the time on the PlanetBid system shall be considered the official time for purposes of determining timely submittal. Mistakes or delays in the electronic submission of Proposals are entirely the responsibility of the Proposer. LATE PROPOSALS WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED.

7.1.1 TECHNICAL AND PRICE PROPOSALS.

a. Technical Proposal and Price Proposal must be submitted via PlanetBids on or before the due date and time for this RFP. The Technical Proposal exhibit shall be marked as “Technical Proposal” with:

• The Name of Proposer and Address

• Buyer: Clarinda Luciano-Ramirez

• RFP No. 7011

• The Date and Time proposal is due

b. The Price Proposal must be submitted on the Price Proposal Form provided by the Trustees, in a separate exhibit clearly marked as “Price Proposal” and the information above.

c. The proposal must be submitted in compliance with the following format, unless otherwise specified in this RFP:

d. Submit electronic proposals as files in .pdf format. Separate each exhibit into one or more files. Clearly name files as to the exhibit and order. Pages requiring signatures must be scanned from an original signature. Other pages may be scanned, or converted to .pdf from other file formats. Converted and searchable formats are preferred.

e. Offerors shall submit separate exhibits in separate files for the Technical Proposal;

and Price Proposal exhibit components of their proposal.

7.1.2 SUBMIT A TECHNICAL PROPOSAL EXHIBIT

a. Content shall be organized to correspond to the applicable question or item within

Section 6.2 Evaluation Criteria. All forms, responses and exhibits shall be sequentially numbered to correspond to the applicable question or item.

b. No price data are to be included in the Technical Proposal exhibit.

c. If price information is included in the Technical exhibit, the University may, at its sole discretion, remove such information or declare the proposal non-responsive.

7.1.3 SUBMIT A SEPARATE PRICE PROPOSAL EXHIBIT

a. All cost and pricing information must be contained within the Price Proposal exhibit.

All proposals shall be signed by an authorized officer or employee of the Offeror. The name, title, mailing address, email address, and phone number of the authorized officer or employee shall be included. Scanned images of pages containing original signatures are acceptable for submission of an electronic file. Electronic or digital signatures will not be accepted.

7.