The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (NC-SARA) is a voluntary organization that aims to simplify the process of obtaining authorization for distance education programs across the United States. This agreement, also known as SARA, was established in 2014 and now includes more than 1,700 institutions and 49 states, as well as Washington D.C., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The primary goal of NC-SARA is to create uniform policies and standards for distance education providers in participating states. This helps to ensure that students have access to quality educational programs, regardless of where they live or where the institution is located. Institutions that participate in NC-SARA are able to offer their distance education programs to students in other participating states without having to obtain authorization from each individual state.
Another benefit of NC-SARA is that it provides students with more options for pursuing higher education. Students can choose from a wider variety of online degree programs, knowing that they are receiving a quality education that meets national standards. This is especially important for non-traditional students who may not have the time or ability to attend traditional on-campus classes.
An added benefit for institutions that participate in NC-SARA is that it can help to reduce the cost and burden of obtaining authorizations from multiple states. This can save time and money for institutions, which can then be passed on to students in the form of lower tuition and fees.
There are also consumer protection benefits to NC-SARA. Institutions that participate in the agreement are required to adhere to NC-SARA`s policies and standards, which includes providing students with accurate and truthful information about their programs. If a student has a complaint about an institution that participates in NC-SARA, they can file a complaint through the NC-SARA complaint process.
In summary, NC-SARA is a voluntary agreement that creates uniform policies and standards for distance education providers across the U.S. This agreement helps to ensure that students have access to quality educational programs, regardless of where they live or where the institution is located. It also provides institutions with cost savings and consumer protection benefits. Students and institutions alike should be aware of NC-SARA and its benefits for distance education.