Nonpublic School Certification Applications
Process for submitting Nonpublic School (NPS) Certification Applications.Certification should not be construed as an evaluation, accreditation, approval, recognition, or endorsement of any NPS.
Prior to completing a new or renewing certification application, applicants should review the California Education Code (EC) sections 56365
through 56366.12
, and the California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 5, sections 3051
through 3053
and 3060
through 3070
, which contain the qualification standards required for an NPS to provide services to students with exceptional needs.
Due dates for NPS Certification Applications:
- New NPS applicants may submit a completed Certification Application anytime throughout the year unless the applicant falls under EC Section 56366.4(d)
.
- Renewing NPS applicants must submit the completed Certification Application and fee no later than October 31.
No refunds will be provided, pursuant to EC Section 56366.1(n)(2)
.
To begin the new or renewal application process, select the appropriate link below:
Contact Information
Questions regarding NPSs may be directed to the Special Education Division at the contacts listed below.
General Contact Information
| Topic | Contact | Telephone Number | |
|---|---|---|---|
| NPS General Questions, New NPS Applications | Nonpublic Schools Unit | NPS@cde.ca.gov | 916-327-0141 |
| In and Out-of-State NPS Renewal Applications | Assigned Consultant | Assigned Consultant | Assigned Consultant |
| NPS Complaints and Investigations | Dispute Resolution Services Unit | Speceducation@cde.ca.gov | 916-327-3704 (Fax) |
| Constituent Support Services Unit | Constituent Support Services Unit | SEDCO@cde.ca.gov | 800-926-0648 |
Consultant Contact Information
New Certification Application Process
To receive information on the certification application process for a new NPS, please complete the steps below:
| Step | Certification Processes for NPS |
|---|---|
1 |
Review the General Certification Information for details regarding the NPS Certification requirements. |
2 |
Email the Nonpublic Schools Unit at NPS@cde.ca.gov or call 916-327-0141 to request an application. |
The California Department of Education (CDE) will make a determination on an application within 120 days of submission of the application and will certify, conditionally certify, or deny certification to the applicant. If certification is denied, the CDE shall provide reasons for the denial.
The CDE shall annually review the certification of each NPS. For this purpose, a certified school shall annually update its application between August 1 and October 31.
Renewal Certification Application Process
To complete the certification application as a renewing NPS, applicants must follow the steps below:
| Step | Certification Processes for NPS |
|---|---|
1 |
Review the General Certification Information for detailed information regarding the NPS certification requirements. |
2 |
The Renewal Certification Application for the current year will be sent by email to all renewing NPSs by August 1 of each year. |
3 |
Email the Nonpublic Schools Unit at NPS@cde.ca.gov or call 916-327-0141 if you have not received your Renewal Certification Application by August 1. |
Nonpublic Schools Unit | NPS@cde.ca.gov | 916-327-0141