SARA Complaint Process

Online and Distance Education

Saint Michael’s College desires to resolve student grievances, complaints, and concerns in an expeditious, fair, and amicable manner.

Students residing outside of the state of Vermont while attending an online Saint Michael’s course who are unable to resolve a grievance internally may file a complaint with their state. The Student Grievance Contact Information for Individual States provides phone numbers, emails and/or links to state education agencies.

Saint Michael’s College is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). As an institution, Saint Michael’s is also authorized to offer online and distance education programs through its participation in the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreement (SARA). SARA is an agreement with member states that allows Saint Michael’s  to provide distance education to residents of any other SARA member state without seeking authorization from each SARA member state. All states, other than California, participate in SARA which means that through the reciprocity agreement, Saint Michael’s has received approval or exemptions from all members. If you are a U.S. citizen, do not live in Vermont and are thinking about enrolling in a Saint Michael’s online program, you are responsible for checking program authorization in your state of residence. We encourage you to review the regulations regarding authorization of your state of residence.

Professional Licensure

Some professions that lead to a professional license or certification are regulated at the state level which means that there may be different requirements in order to obtain a license or certification in your state.

If you become a Saint Michael’s student or if you are a current student enrolled in a program that leads to professional licensure or certification, you are responsible for checking the requirements in your state of residence. Saint Michael’s has provided professional licensure information on its individual program websites. Students should be aware that rules and regulations vary by state and may be updated from time to time. Students should verify licensure requirements for their respective states and, if a student moves to a new state, they are responsible for verifying that Saint Michael’s program is approved in their new state.

Prospective or current students may also contact the school or college with questions regarding professional licensure.