What is State Authorization?

State Authorization is the process of gaining approval from other states to operate within their borders. The purpose of state authorization is consumer protection.

National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA)

Northern Arizona University (NAU) participates in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA). NAU is authorized to provide distance education, including online classes, continuing education opportunities, field trip experiences, and “experiential” activities to students located in other states that participate in NC-SARA. As of July 2020, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and all states except for California are members of NC-SARA. Students located in California can participate in NAU’s distance education offerings.

Adverse Actions by Accrediting Agency or State

Institutions must provide notice to the public if an enforcement action or prosecution is brought against the institution by a State or Federal law enforcement agency in any matter where a final judgement against the institution, if rendered, would result in an adverse action by an accrediting agency against the institution, revocation of State authorization, or limitation, suspension, or termination of eligibility under Title IV.

No adverse actions have been initiated to our programs, online or in -person, by the Arizona Board of Regents (ABOR), the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) or the National Council of State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) against Northern Arizona University.

Updated: 04/03/2023