The State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA) is a voluntary agreement among its member states, districts, and territories that establishes a framework for the regulation of postsecondary distance education. As of 2022, 49 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands are members of SARA. The agreement aims to simplify the process of obtaining authorization to offer distance education across state lines, reducing the complexity and costs associated with complying with multiple state regulations. In this article, we will delve into 12 key secrets about SARA, exploring its intricacies, benefits, and implications for institutions and students alike.
Introduction to SARA and Its History
SARA was first proposed in 2011 by the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA), a nonprofit organization established to facilitate the implementation of the agreement. The first SARA agreements were signed in 2014, and since then, the initiative has grown rapidly. SARA is based on the principle of reciprocity, where member states agree to accept the regulatory oversight of other member states, thereby reducing the need for institutions to obtain separate authorizations in each state where they offer distance education. This approach has significantly streamlined the process for institutions to expand their online programs across state lines, promoting interstate cooperation and regulatory efficiency.
SARA’s Operational Structure
SARA operates through four regional education compacts: the Midwestern Higher Education Compact (MHEC), the New England Board of Higher Education (NEBHE), the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB), and the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE). These compacts serve as the regional agents responsible for managing SARA’s operations within their respective regions, including the review of institutional applications for participation, monitoring compliance, and resolving complaints. The NC-SARA provides overarching support, including the development of policies and procedures, data collection, and national coordination.
| Regional Compact | Member States |
|---|---|
| Midwestern Higher Education Compact (MHEC) | Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, Wisconsin |
| New England Board of Higher Education (NEBHE) | Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont |
| Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) | Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia |
| Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education (WICHE) | Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming |
SARA’s Benefits for Institutions and Students
The benefits of SARA are multifaceted, impacting both institutions and students. For institutions, SARA simplifies the regulatory landscape, allowing them to expand their online offerings more easily. This can lead to increased enrollment and revenue, as well as improved brand visibility across different regions. Students also benefit from SARA, as it provides them with increased access to online and distance education programs from institutions across the country, potentially at a lower cost due to reduced institutional compliance expenses.
Eligibility and Participation
To participate in SARA, institutions must meet specific eligibility criteria, including being accredited by an accrediting agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and having legal authority to operate in their home state. Institutions must also comply with SARA’s policies and standards, which cover areas such as student complaints, advertising, and faculty qualifications. The participation process involves submitting an application to the relevant regional compact, which reviews the institution’s eligibility and compliance with SARA policies.
SARA's impact on student mobility and access to education cannot be overstated. By facilitating the expansion of distance education, SARA helps ensure that students have access to a broader range of academic programs, regardless of their geographical location. This is particularly beneficial for students in areas with limited educational opportunities, as well as for working professionals and individuals with family commitments who require flexible learning options.
What is the primary purpose of the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA)?
+The primary purpose of SARA is to simplify the process of obtaining authorization to offer distance education across state lines, reducing regulatory complexity and costs for institutions while increasing access to online programs for students.
How do institutions benefit from participating in SARA?
+Institutions benefit from SARA through reduced regulatory complexity and costs, increased enrollment and revenue, and improved brand visibility. Participation in SARA also facilitates the expansion of online programs, allowing institutions to reach a broader audience.
What are the eligibility criteria for institutions to participate in SARA?
+To participate in SARA, institutions must be accredited by a recognized accrediting agency, have legal authority to operate in their home state, and comply with SARA's policies and standards. This includes meeting specific requirements related to student complaints, advertising, and faculty qualifications.
In conclusion, SARA represents a significant advancement in the regulation of distance education, offering a framework that balances institutional needs with student protections. By understanding the intricacies of SARA, including its operational structure, benefits, and eligibility criteria, institutions and policymakers can better navigate the complex landscape of higher education regulation, ultimately enhancing access to quality educational programs for students across the United States.
