Application Process

Institutions applying for initial authorization must meet minimum standards as established in AS 14.48.060 and 20 AAC 17. Those minimum standards are outlined in a detailed application, which requires an initial fee of $2,500, substantial documentation, and financial statements prepared by a qualified, independent third party.

To request an Initial Authorization Packet contact the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education (ACPE) by email at EED.ACPE‐IA@alaska.gov or by telephone at 907‐465‐6741.

Applications for initial authorization, renewal of authorization, or changes to an authorized institution, require approval from ACPE, and must be submitted by the appropriate deadline to be considered at the next Commission meeting.

Applications follow a similar process:

  • The institution submits the appropriate application, forms, and supporting materials to ACPE, including payment of fees.
  • Staff reviews the submitted documentation and schedules a site visit, as necessary.
    1. If the information is incomplete or additional information is required, staff will contact the institution.
    2. Staff forwards a recommendation to the Commission for consideration at the next scheduled Commission meeting. 
  • The Commission reviews the institution information and staff recommendation. The institution may comment on the information and recommendation; the Commission then takes action on the application.
  • Staff notifies the institution of the Commission's action.
 Applications, Fees and Deadlines
Fees
Exempt Application Fee $100
Initial Authorization Fee $2,500
Renewal Authorization Fee $500-$2,500*
New/Modify Program Fee $100
Change in Location Fee $500
Additional Site Inspection Fee $500
Late Application Fee $250
Initial Agent’s Fee $500
Renewal Agent’s Fee $250

* The fee for Renewal Authorization is set at 3% of average tuition receipts during the most recent authorization period
Application Deadline Commission Meeting at which application will be acted on:
October 31 January
January 31 April
April 30 July
July 31 October

Applications for change of ownership must be submitted within 30 days of the effective date of the ownership change.

All other applications must be submitted before the effective date of the change.