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How to Obtain State Approval for Colleges and Universities in Hawaii

Establishing a college or university in Hawaii requires understanding the specific regulations and procedures set by the Hawaii Post-Secondary Education Authorization Program (HPEAP) and other relevant state laws. This guide provides a straightforward approach to obtaining state approval for accredited and unaccredited institutions.

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Establishing a Location in Hawaii

Accredited Institutions

If your institution is accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, follow these steps:

  1. Preliminary Consultation: This step helps ensure that you understand the specific requirements and procedures.
  2. Application Submission: Prepare and submit your application for state approval. It is recommended that you allow at least 90 days for the review process. Once you have obtained the necessary approval, enroll students in new programs to be held in Hawaii.
  3. Review and Approval: HPEAP will review the application to assess compliance with state educational standards. Approval will allow the institution to operate and enroll students in Hawaii.

Unaccredited Institutions

If your institution is not accredited, you must comply with the provisions of Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) Chapter 446E. Key points include:

  1. Disclosure Requirements: Unaccredited institutions must disclose their unaccredited status using the specific text provided by §446E-2(a) and (b).
  2. Record Keeping: Maintain records as required by §446E-2(c) and produce them to the Office of Consumer Protection upon request.
  3. Agent for Service of Process: Designate and maintain an agent for service of process as per §446E-4.
  4. Prohibited Practices: Avoid prohibited practices listed in §446E-5, such as suggesting state approval, issuing certain professional degrees, or enrolling students without meeting specific conditions.
  5. Compliance with Other Laws: Unaccredited institutions must comply with Hawaii’s general business and consumer protection laws.

Violations of Chapter 446E are subject to fines and legal action by the Office of Consumer Protection.

State Approval Readines

If you're new to state approval, start with our initial questionnaire. This provides a comprehensive understanding of your organization's readiness for state approval.

Our goal is to help you achieve successful approval from your state and ensure the process is as efficient and stress-free as possible for you and your team.

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Types of Institutions and Accreditation

  • Accredited Schools and Colleges: The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredit Hawaii’s private schools, colleges, and universities. A listing of WASC institutions is available on their website.
  • Licensed Vocational Schools: The Hawaii Department of Education (HIDOE) regulates private trade, vocational, and technical schools.

Physical Presence in Hawaii

“Physical presence” in Hawaii includes:

  1. Signed application for institutional approval to participate in SARA.
  2. Signed MOU between ACHE and the institution.
  3. Documentation concerning accreditation status (e.g., SACSCOC accreditation).
  4. For non-public institutions, the latest available Federal Financial Responsibility Composite Score.
  5. State Participation Fee, payable to the State of Alabama (ACHE-ASPA).

For detailed guidance, refer to Hawaii Administrative Rules Section 16-255-2.

Steps to Obtain State Approval

  1. Determine Accreditation Status: Identify whether a recognized agency accredits your institution.
  2. Preliminary Consultation: Accredited institutions should conduct a preliminary consultation with HPEAP.
  3. Prepare Application: Gather all required documents and information for the application process.
  4. Submit Application: Submit the completed application to HPEAP and allow at least 90 days for review.
  5. Await Approval: Do not enroll students in new programs until approval is granted.
  6. Maintain Compliance: Ensure ongoing compliance with all state regulations and reporting requirements.

Consulting with Accreditation Experts

Navigating the approval process can be complex. Consulting with accreditation experts can provide valuable assistance, including:

  1. Understanding Requirements: Experts can clarify state regulations and accreditation requirements.
  2. Application Assistance: They can help prepare and submit thorough and accurate applications.
  3. Maintaining Accreditation: Experts can help maintain or obtain accreditation status.
  4. Compliance Management: They can assist in setting up systems to ensure ongoing compliance with state laws.

AEC Note

Obtaining state approval for colleges and universities in Hawaii involves a clear understanding of state regulations and accreditation requirements. By following the outlined steps and seeking expert advice, institutions can successfully navigate the approval process and offer quality educational programs in Hawaii.

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