Authorization

SEEKING AUTHORIZATION

If an institution is seeking initial authorization for a non-credit-bearing/non-degree-granting career or technical school, please proceed and follow the authorization steps.

• Note: Not all documents and/or forms are compatible with every internet browser. If you are having trouble accessing any forms or documents, please email us at OCTS@dwd.IN.gov.

DETERMINATION OF STATUS QUESTIONNAIRE (DOSQ)

Prior to submitting the applications, proprietors need to complete the DOSQ. If authorization is required, you will receive an identification number that you enter to complete the orientation.

Determination of Status Questionnaire

NEW INSTITUTION ORIENTATION

After receiving the identification number, complete the orientation and submit the verification page. The orientation provides an overview of both the regulatory process and application requirements.

• Note:  DO NOT complete and submit the application before receiving notification from OCTS.  Fees paid by institutions are non-refundable.

New Institution Orientation

INITIAL APPLICATION

Submitting the initial application for authorization is crucial, as it marks the first step in obtaining the necessary approvals to operate legally and in compliance with regulatory requirements.  With submission, make sure all required forms and supporting documentation are attached, completed, and accurate.  This will help expedite the review process and prevent delays in obtaining approval.

Initial Application

ANNUAL APPLICATION

Submitting the annual application for authorization is essential to maintaining ongoing compliance with regulatory standards and ensuring uninterrupted authorization.   The annual application is important for identifying any changes in operational scope, staffing, courses offered, or procedures that may impact authorization.

Annual Application

OCTS Forms

• Application for Agent’s Permit | State Form 39286
• Application for Agent’s Renewal Permit | State Form 41429
• Verification of Agent Training (Word or PDF) | State Form 39287
• Notification of Agent Termination | State Form 20561
• SAF | State Form 51804
• Financial Report Submission | State Form 39285
• Indiana Tuition Report Form | State Form 49926
• Institutional Surety Bond Form | State Form 39284
• Graduation Rate Data Form
• Graduation and Drop Form
• Student Placement Form
• Quarterly Student Data Form
• Personal Financial Statement Template

Virtual Payment System

Consumer Information: Transcript Requests & Education Verifications

In Indiana, OCTS-authorized closed institutions are required to place student transcripts with a designated custodial party to ensure records are maintained and distributed upon student requests. Many students seek records that are more than 10 years old; however, these records are not always accessible.

Effective December 1, 2025

The Office for Career and Technical Schools (OCTS) has partnered with DiplomaSender to manage transcript requests and education verifications for closed, non-credit bearing, non-degree granting postsecondary proprietary educational institutions.

To request a transcript or verification:

• Visit DiplomaSender.com to submit your request and make your payment online.
• The self-service website is available 24/7.
• For assistance, contact a DiplomaSender specialist Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Central Time at 855-313-5799.

Student Complaint Process

OCTS is responsible for reviewing and responding to student claims for monetary reimbursement against post-secondary proprietary schools that are non-credit bearing and non-degree granting. OCTS adjudicates only claims for monetary reimbursement and cannot adjudicate claims involving programmatic content.  Monetary claims for reimbursement are limited to tuition and fees paid out of pocket by the student. OCTS does not have jurisdiction to adjudicate claims for reimbursement of scholarships, financial assistance, or fee reductions.  OCTS cannot offer legal advice or initiate civil court cases.

Students filing claims must meet these requirements:

1. Be a current or former student in a program at a school regulated by OCTS (see List of Authorized Institutions).
2. Follow and exhaust the school’s complaint resolution process with the school directly; or provide a detailed explanation (see Complaint Form in step 3) as to why the school’s complaint process was not completed.
3. File a formal claim with OCTS by completing the online Student Complaint Form, and attaching the following documents:
   1. A statement of the facts supporting the claim and outlining the problem, and
   2. A copy of the enrollment agreement signed by the student, and
   3. Copies of all receipts for tuition paid by cash, check, money order or credit card, and
   4. Any other material which substantiates the claim.

OCTS will review the claim and contact the claimant if additional information or clarification is needed.  When the student’s initial claim is determined valid by OCTS, OCTS will forward a copy of the claim to the school, and the school will have three (3) weeks to respond. Upon receipt of the school’s response, OCTS will adjudicate the claim and issue a final determination. Both the student and the school will receive notification of the OCTS final determination. The determination by OCTS is final and is not appealable through the Department.

NOTE: If you believe a school has acted in a discriminatory manner, you may wish to contact the Indiana Civil Rights Commission using the ICRC’s complaint form.

Institutional Hearing Rights and Process

Postsecondary Proprietary Educational Intuitions have the right to request a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ) if the institution’s authorization has been refused, denied, revoked, or suspended.

To initiate this process, the institution must submit a formal request using this form.

Important Requirements:

• The hearing request must be submitted within thirty (30) calendar days of the institution receiving the official notice of denial, revocation, or suspension.
• It is the institution’s responsibility to ensure the request is submitted within the required timeframe.

What to Expect After Submissions:

• Upon receipt of the hearing request, the Indiana Department of Workforce Devotement (DWD) will schedule a hearing.
• The institution will receive written notice of the date, time, and location of the hearing at least ten (10) days prior to the scheduled date.

Hearing Process:

• The institution has the right to be represent by legal counsel.
• Institutions may submit both oral testimony and documentary evidence relevant to the case.
• Hearing will be conducted in accordance with procedures established by DWD.

Final Decision:

• DWD will issue a written finding of facts, decision, and order within fifteen (15) days following the hearing.
• The decision will be based solely on the evidence submitted during the hearing will state whether authorization is granted or denied.

Education and Training Resources

Review previous recordings of Quarterly OCTS webinars

• January 23, 2023 Webinar (4th Quarter 2022)
• August 10, 2023 Webinar (3rd Quarter 2023)