Authorization to operate a postsecondary educational institution in Alaska, or simply “Authorization,” is granted by the Alaska Commission on Postsecondary Education (ACPE) to postsecondary educational institutions that apply for Authorization and document meeting the minimum standards of operation set forth in law.

Postsecondary education institutions seeking Authorization status, must complete the application, review, and approval process for Initial Authorization. After successfully meeting the standards and benchmarks established in Initial Authorization, the postsecondary education institution must then apply for Renewal of Authorization. Upon successfully submitting the application and gaining approval by the ACPE, the institution may be renewed for a period of up to five (5) years, before undergoing the next Renewal of Authorization process.