Getting State Approval in Colorado
Colorado has a growing population and a strong education system, making it an ideal place to open a new university or college. In fact, according to the U.S. Career Institute, Colorado ranks 9th in the nation for the highest graduation rate at 92%.
If you’re interested in starting a postsecondary institution in Colorado, there are some specific steps to take to get the necessary approvals from the state.
In this guide, we’ll go over the different steps you need to take to get your university up and running in Colorado.
Understanding the Process and Requirements For State Approval
Before accepting students, offering instruction, or awarding credits or degrees, all institutions seeking authorization under the Degree Authorization Act must receive approval from the Colorado Commission on Higher Education. Failure to comply with this policy will result in a Class 3 misdemeanor, punishable by law.
Application Fees and Processing Time
Fees:
- Application fee: $10,000
- Surety bond: $5,000
Processing Time:
- 3-6 months
Here are the steps you will need to take in order to get approval from the Colorado Commission on Higher Education:
1. Complete and submit the Regulation Determination Questionnaire
2. Schedule an In-Person Consultation with DHE Staff
3. Submit the Necessary Documentation
4, Wait for The DHE Staff's Formal Review
5. Reply to the Report and Make the Required Changes
6. Wait for Approval
7. Get authorized and start operations
Step 1: Complete And Submit The Regulation Determination Questionnaire
This will help determine which regulatory body the institution falls under.
These regulatory bodies include:
• The Division of Private Occupational Schools (DPOS)
• Colorado Commission on Higher Education
You can access the questionnaire through this PDF link via the NC-SARA website.
Once you've completed the questionnaire, send it along with a link to the academic catalog to the following address:
Colorado Department of Higher Education
Attn: Office of Private Postsecondary Education
1600 Broadway, Suite 2200
Step 2: Schedule an In-Person Consultation with DHE Staff
You should meet with the staff of the Colorado Department of Higher Education (DHE) to discuss topics like academic policies and procedures, faculty qualifications, eligibility, and application requirements.
Step 3: Submit the Necessary Documentation
The documentation will be reviewed by DHE staff to determine the category of authorization for which the institution will apply.
Here are some considerations you must make when submitting the documents:
- If the institution's Colorado campus is accredited based on an on-site visit by the accrediting agency, the institution will seek authorization as a Fully Authorized institution.
- If the institution is accredited by a recognized agency, but not based on an on-site visit at the Colorado campus, the institution will seek Provisional status.
- If the institution has begun the accreditation process through a campus located in another state and can demonstrate the potential for accreditation, it will seek Provisional authorization.
- If the institution is not accredited, it must demonstrate familiarity with accreditation and state authorization policies and seek Provisional authorization.
Step 4: Wait for The DHE Staff's Formal Review
The DHE staff will review the submitted documents and supporting information to determine whether your institution should be approved for state authorization.
If your institution is approved, the DHE staff will form an external evaluation team to determine if:
- The accredited institution seeking authorization in Colorado has the infrastructure in place to open a branch campus.
- The unaccredited institution meets statutory and CCHE-approved policy requirements and has the potential to become accredited at its location in Colorado in a reasonable time as set by the accrediting agencies.
Step 5: Reply to the Report and Make the Required Changes
The evaluation team will submit a report of its recommendations to DHE staff, who will then forward the report to the institution. The institution will have one chance to reply to any concerns noted in the report and make corrections if necessary.
Step 6: Wait for Approval
Once all of the documents have been reviewed, and any changes required are made, CCHE staff will recommend to the Commission that your institution be approved for a Certificate of Authorization.
Evaluation Report and Recommendation
- If the evaluation team's report is favorable, DHE staff will recommend appropriate authorization of the institution to the Colorado Commission on Higher Education at the next possible meeting.
- If the report is conditional, DHE staff will review the report to determine if minor technical changes or substantial changes are necessary.
Minor vs Substantial Changes
- The institution will have six months to resubmit the materials with no fee if minor technical changes are required.
- If substantial changes are required, the institution will be required to submit a new application and fee.
Step 7: Get Authorized And Start Operations
Once approved, the institution will be awarded a Certificate of Authorization that allows it to operate in Colorado. You may begin accepting students, offering instruction, and awarding credits or degrees.
Closing Words
It is important to understand the process of obtaining state authorization from Colorado's Department of Higher Education in order to ensure adherence to all applicable regulations and policies.
Make sure that all documentation required by the Department is accurate and complete for the authorization to be granted. Following the steps outlined in this guide should streamline the process.
Colorado State Licensing FAQ
How much does it cost to open a university in Colorado?
Costs depend on your institution type, enrollment level, and number of programs. State licensing fees in Colorado typically include application fees, surety bonds, and program-specific charges — common amounts include $10,000, $5,000. Beyond state fees, budget for facility build-out, curriculum development, faculty recruitment, and accreditation preparation. Our Understanding the Investment page covers the full picture.
How long does it take to open a university in Colorado?
From start to license approval, the typical timeline is 3-6 months — including application preparation and agency review. Working with Expert Education Consultants can help compress this timeline by ensuring your application is complete and compliant on the first submission, avoiding delays from deficiency responses.
What state agency oversees private postsecondary licensing in Colorado?
Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) is responsible for licensing and regulating private postsecondary educational institutions in Colorado. The agency ensures institutions meet quality standards for curricula, faculty, facilities, financial stability, and student protection. No private university, college, or vocational school can operate in Colorado without proper state authorization.
What documents are required for a Colorado state licensing application?
Colorado requires a comprehensive documentation package typically including: articles of incorporation, institutional catalog with policies and programs, detailed curricula or degree plans, faculty qualifications and credentials, audited or reviewed financial statements, a surety bond, facility documentation (lease or deed and floor plans), and proof of fee payments. Specific requirements vary by institution type.
Do I need accreditation in addition to Colorado state licensure?
State licensure and accreditation are separate processes. Licensure is required to operate legally in Colorado. Accreditation — while not always required immediately — is essential if your students need federal financial aid (Title IV), transferable credits, or nationally recognized credentials. Many institutions pursue accreditation from bodies like ACCSC, DEAC, ABHES, or COE alongside or shortly after licensure.
Can Expert Education Consultants help with our Colorado application?
Yes. Expert Education Consultants has guided 200+ institutions through state licensing across all 50 states, with a 98% first-attempt approval rate. We handle everything from application preparation through agency review and approval — including curriculum development, financial documentation, and compliance. Call (925) 208-9037 or email sandra@experteduconsult.com.
Start Your Colorado Institution
Schedule a free consultation with our licensing specialists.
(925) 208-9037 · sandra@experteduconsult.com
