Understanding and navigating the state approval process for colleges and universities in Oklahoma is a structured process governed by specific laws and administrative rules. This guide is your key to this process, empowering you with the knowledge you need to succeed in operating postsecondary degree-granting institutions in Oklahoma, including those offering distance education and those seeking exemptions.
Commencing in the 2025-26 academic year, a significant shift in Oklahoma state laws, administrative rules, and policies will come into effect for all authorizations. It’s crucial for institutions to refer to the ‘New Oklahoma Authorization Requirements Starting 2025’document for comprehensive details and prepare for these changes.
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.
“Accreditation Expert Consulting Team”
Our goal is to help you find exactly what you need and explore your options.
To operate with a physical presence in Oklahoma, postsecondary degree-granting institutions must:
Exemptions:
Requirements to Offer Distance Education in Oklahoma
Out-of-state institutions offering postsecondary degree-related distance education to Oklahoma residents must comply with their home state’s requirements. Oklahoma does not currently require authorization for out-of-state institutions to offer online-only degree-related distance education.
Physical Presence in Oklahoma
OSRHE’s Institutional Accreditation and State Authorization policy details what constitutes a physical presence in Oklahoma.
Oklahoma Board of Private Vocational Schools (OBPVS)
The OBPVS licenses private vocational schools, which are defined by the type of training offered rather than location. This includes live training, correspondence courses, and online (distance education) schools that offer vocational or occupational training.
OBPVS Licensing Requirements
OBPVS Office Information
Licensing Year
The OBPVS license is valid from July 1 to June 30. If a relicensing application is filed on time, the existing license remains valid until the OBPVS makes a final determination.
Relicensing
Transferring a School’s License
Licenses are not transferable to new owners. The new owner must apply for a new license at least 30 days before the sale or transfer.
Mandatory OBPVS Training for Licensed Schools
Changes at a Licensed School
Changes to a licensed school must be submitted for advance approval by the OBPVS. These include updates to the school catalog, seminar brochures, enrollment agreements, location changes, and personnel changes.
Applying for Licensure
Exemptions from Licensing
Certain types of training or institutions may be exempt from licensing requirements. For details, refer to the License Wizard or statutory exemptions in Oklahoma Statutes Title 70 O.S. §21-101.1.
Accreditation and Licensing
School Personnel Qualifications
Forms 1140CM (Instructor) and 1150CM (AAO/Director) require documentation such as transcripts, work experience, licenses, and certifications. The AAO serves as the primary contact with OBPVS, and changes in key personnel must be reported.
Fees
OBPVS fees are set by statute, including application, relicensing, and charge submission fees. Specific fee schedules are available on the OBPVS website.
Accreditation expert consulting can assist institutions in several ways:
By leveraging the expertise of accreditation consultants, institutions can navigate the complexities of state authorization more efficiently and effectively, ensuring they meet all regulatory requirements and maintain high standards of educational quality.
Navigating the state approval process for colleges and universities in Oklahoma requires careful attention to the specific requirements and procedures set by the OSRHE and OBPVS. Institutions must ensure compliance with accreditation standards, maintain accurate and timely documentation, and participate in mandatory training. By following these guidelines, institutions can obtain and maintain state authorization to operate in Oklahoma.
