State Authorization
Northwestern State University participates in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) and is authorized to enroll students from all states that participate in SARA.
About SARA:
“The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) is a private nonprofit organization [501(c)(3)] that helps expand students’ access to educational opportunities and ensure more efficient, consistent, and effective regulation of distance education programs.
Recognizing the growing demand for distance education opportunities, higher education stakeholders – including state regulators and education leaders, accreditors, the U.S. Department of Education, and institutions – joined together in 2013 to establish the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA), which streamline regulations around distance education programs.
In partnership with four regional compacts, NC-SARA helps states, institutions, policymakers, and students understand the purpose and benefits of participating in SARA. Today, more than 2,200 institutions in 49 member states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands all voluntarily participate in SARA.” — About NC-SARA
Find Out More: NC-SARA: National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements
NSU’s Approval Status for the state of California
California does not currently participate in SARA; however, Northwestern State University has established that our online programs are exempt from authorization in that state.
Online programs: Exempt
Supporting Documentation:
Helpful Links:
1.) How to Work with Students in California
2.) California Private Postsecondary Education Act of 2009
3.) Information for Schools – California Bureau for Private Postsecondary Education