NYS Education Department-Bureau of Proprietary School Supervision

Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Licensure (FAQ):
(FAQ's regarding Curriculum, Records, etc. are currently under construction)

Do I need to be licensed (as a school) in New York State?: If you offer training in New York State, you must obtain a school license/registration from the Bureau of Proprietary School Supervision unless one of the exemptions listed in Education Law Section 5001(2)(1) specifically permits your operation without licensure.
How long does the process of becoming licensed take?: The process is designed so that a school diligently working toward licensure can complete the process in eight (8) months or less. The quality of the initial submission, the speed with which applicants make and resubmit corrections, and factors such as the location of the space in which training will occur all enter into the duration required to become licensed.
Can I choose whether to receive a school license or school registration?: No. Private schools (offering trade subjects) receive school licenses to authorize instruction. Business schools and Computer Training Facilities receive school registrations to authorize instruction. In cases where a school offers both types of instruction, the school must apply for both a school license and a school registration.
How much does initial school licensure cost?: Costs certainly can vary depending upon the size of the school, the location, etc. Some of the common costs for all new schools include the $250 initial school application fee, the $100 agent application fee for each school agent (each school must have at least one agent), the $50 director application fee (each school must have at least one director), and the $50 teacher application fee (each school must have at least one teacher). Other costs may include curriculum review costs if courses or curricula must be sent to outside evaluation for review.
Where do I start?: Any person considering licensure should begin by reviewing all of the school licensure information including Education Law and Commissioner's Regulations listed on the Bureau web site at www.highered.nysed.gov/bpss. Additionally, the forms required for licensure are available for printing from the web site. The Bureau does not mail these forms since they are available electronically directly from this site.
Are consultants available to assist with the initial licensure process?: Although some consultants have assisted applicants in becoming licensed, the Bureau does not normally encourage the use of consultants since, once the school is in licensed operation, the administration will need to comply with all of the rules and regulations without the assistance of a consultant. Applicants are strongly advised to thoroughly read the information provided on the web site and deal directly with the Bureau.
Can I operate a school while my application is pending?: No. In New York State, only a licensed or registered school can provide training. Filing an application indicates an intent to become licensed but does not assure that all of the conditions for licensure have been completed.
Can I submit the school license application to the Bureau while working on the other required documents?: No. The application must be submitted in its entirety with all of the supporting components so that a complete review can be conducted upon receipt. The only portion of the package that can be submitted at a later date is the quarters application. The Bureau understands that leasing space can be expensive when a school is in the process of becoming licensed and therefore cannot conduct classes. However, the quarters application must be submitted and acceptable before the final school license can be issued.
Whom should I contact regarding licensure requirements?: Once your school license application is filed, you will be assigned to work with specific Bureau staff. General questions that you may have before submitting the application should be sent to bpss@mail.nysed.gov. Bureau staff cannot advise you regarding whether your operation is legally operating under an exemption as listed in Section 5001(2)(1) of Education Law. For such advice, schools should consult with their own attorney.

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