Washington D.C. Postsecondary School Bond Guide
In Washington D.C., most postsecondary schools must file a surety bond to register with the District of Columbia Higher Education Licensure Commission (HELC).
Bond Overview
- Purpose: To ensure schools follow state regulations and protect prepaid tuition funds
- Who Needs It: Most postsecondary institutions in Washington, D.C.
- Regulating Body: The D.C. Higher Education Licensure Commission
- Required Amount: $5,000–$100,000
- Premium Rates: Credit-based, starting at 1%
Keep scrolling to learn more about the bonding process.
What Is a Washington D.C. Postsecondary School Bond?
A Washington D.C. postsecondary school bond is a type of license and permit bond that ensures institutions follow state regulations. It also protects prepaid tuition funds if a school closes unexpectedly.
How Much Bond Coverage Do I Need?
The HELC will calculate your bond amount based on the number of students enrolled and the amount of annual net tuition received, whichever is higher:
| Number of Students | Annual Net Tuition | Surety Bond Amount |
|---|---|---|
≤ 50 | ≤ $100,000 | $5,000 |
51 to 150 | $100,001 to $1,000,000 | $10,000 |
151 to 200 | $1,000,001 to $2,000,000 | $20,000* |
201 to 250 | $2,000,001 to $3,000,000 | $30,000 |
251 to 300 | $3,000,001 to $4,000,000 | $40,000 |
301 to 350 | $4,000,001 to $5,000,000 | $50,000 |
351 to 400 | $5,000,001 to $6,000,000 | $60,000 |
401 to 450 | $6,000,001 to $7,000,000 | $70,000 |
451 to 500 | $7,000,001 to $8,000,000 | $80,000 |
501 to 550 | $8,000,001 to $9,000,000 | $90,000 |
551+ | $9,000,001 to $10,000,000 | $100,000 |
There are two separate bond forms for degree-granting postsecondary schools and non-degree-granting postsecondary schools. *Non-degree granting institution bonds have a $20,000 coverage maximum.
How Much Do Postsecondary School Bonds Cost in Washington D.C.?
D.C. postsecondary school bond premiums are credit-based and typically cost 1–3% of the total bond amount.
For example, with excellent credit, you could pay just $100 for $10,000 in coverage. Select your bond amount below to get your free, personalized quote.
SuretyBonds.com offers the lowest available rates from our nationwide provider network with no added fees.
How Does a D.C. Postsecondary School Bond Work?
A Washington D.C. postsecondary school bond is a legal contract between three parties:
- Principal: The postsecondary institution purchasing the bond
- Obligee: The D.C. Higher Education Licensure Commission requiring the bond
- Surety: The provider issuing the bond
Under this contract, you, as the principal, promise to uphold D.C. Code Title 38, Subtitle III, Chapter 13.
If you break the bond terms, harmed parties can file claims on the bond. The surety will validate and pay claims up to the full bond amount. However, you are ultimately responsible for refunding the surety.
Who Needs a Postsecondary School Bond?
The following types of postsecondary schools operating in the District of Columbia must file a surety bond:
- Private and public
- Degree and non-degree-granting
- For-profit and not-for-profit
- Religious and tribally-controlled
- Out-of-state schools providing online instruction to D.C. residents
Certain types of institutions are exempt under DC Code § 38-1310. Exempt schools must complete the Application for Conditional Exemption, except for congressionally-chartered schools.
How Do I Get a Postsecondary School Bond in Washington D.C.?
SuretyBonds.com provides the fastest and easiest way to get a postsecondary school bond. Follow these simple steps:
- Apply Online: Select your coverage amount and enter your information to receive a personalized quote
- Pay Invoice: Complete your purchase online or over the phone
- Receive Bond: Select your FedEx shipping option to receive your bond form
Upon receipt, sign and file the bond documentation with the HELC.
How Fast Can I Get My Bond?
We process most bond applications within one business day.
If you’re in a rush, SuretyBonds.com offers overnight FedEx delivery. Purchase now to receive your official bond the next day.
Can I Get Bonded With Bad Credit?
Yes, you may still be able to get bonded with bad credit. However, poor credit will typically increase your premium rate.
Apply for a free quote or visit our Surety Bond Cost FAQ page to see how credit may impact your cost.
How Do I Renew My Postsecondary School Bond?
D.C. postsecondary school bonds expire annually. When you work with SuretyBonds.com, we’ll send you reminders and a renewal invoice before your bond expires.
Once you pay your renewal premium, we’ll issue a continuation certificate to keep your bond active for another year. File this with the HELC as instructed.
How to Open a Postsecondary School in Washington D.C.
The D.C. Higher Education Licensure Commission regulates all postsecondary schools in the state. To apply for licensure, follow these steps:
- Attend a workshop: Register for a new applicant workshop and pay the $200 fee
- Purchase a bond: Purchase a surety bond in the amount the HELC requires
- Apply: Within six months of attending a workshop, submit the Application for Provisional Licensure and pay all applicable fees
- Site Visit: The HELC will inspect your facilities to ensure compliance with state regulations
Email your application to [email protected], or mail it to the address below:
Higher Education Licensure Commission
1050 First Street, NE
Fifth Floor
Washington, DC 20002
How Long Does It Take to Get a Postsecondary School License?
The HELC will review your application at their next public meeting and send you a written notice of their decision. The total processing time is typically 90 days.
When Do Postsecondary School Licenses Expire?
Provisional licenses expire after one year. The HELC approves renewals for:
- 1–3 years for non-degree institutions
- 1–5 years for degree-granting institutions
Submit the renewal application at least 60 days before your license expires. Include your surety bond continuation certificate and payment for the $2,500 fee.
The HELC will conduct another site visit and review your renewal application at the next HELC meeting.
The following changes to your institution require a separate application and fee:
- Ownership change
- New or additional location
- Name change
- Adding, removing or modifying curriculum programs
