APPROVAL OF EXEMPT STATUS

"Assistance" in Oregon

Physical Presence in Oregon is defined in administrative rule 583-030-0015 (23) as:

Any person or organization helping the school or its students or clients...

and a person assisting a school includes, but is not limited to: advertiser, recruiter, admissions agent, advisor, teacher, mentor, tutor, supervisor of an internship or practicum, speaker, seminar or discussion leader, evaluator, member of a thesis or study committee...

In Oregon, there are 3 categories of exemption:

  • RELIGIOUS EXEMPTION - Non-profit religious schools that offer only degrees in theology or religious occupations.
  • ONLINE EXEMPTION - Distance learning programs that are accredited by a USDOE-approved regional accrediting organization, and do not have "assistance" in Oregon.
  • OTHER EXEMPT INDEPENDENT COLLEGES - Non-profit regionally-accredited schools that have operated successfully under ODA authorization for more than 5 consecutive years.

Quick Facts about exempt status in Oregon…

  • Exemption is determined by the ODA Administrator and communicated to the school when approved.
  • Approval or denial of exempt status is based on review, and verification of certain criteria.
  • Exempt status usually remains in effect as long as the school continues to meet the criteria.
  • Exempt status may be denied or revoked as necessary.
  • Exempt schools are required to submit annual reports to ODA.