Kentucky Council on Postsecondary Education

What to expect if a college loses its license to operate in Kentucky and must close

In-state School

If your school has only a Kentucky location and loses its license, it legally cannot continue operations in the state, meaning it must close. In the best circumstances, your school will choose to close at the end of a semester to guarantee you can finish your coursework. If it must close mid-semester, the school may refund some of your tuition money – but, if it is closing because of bad business practices or financial instability, a refund may not be possible.

Also as part of the closure plan, the school must retain your records for proof that you attended. Once the school is officially closed, you can find the contact person for your records on the closed institutions contact list.

Out-of-state School

If your school is an out-of-state school with a Kentucky campus that loses its license, other campus locations may still be accredited and legally operating outside of Kentucky. The school may choose to transfer you to an alternative online program (if licensed in Kentucky) or request that you transfer to one of the campuses outside of Kentucky. Another possibility may be that your school will request to teach out Kentucky students currently enrolled or have an agreement with another licensed school to do so.

Like in-state schools, an out-of-state school must retain your records for proof that you attended. Once the school is officially closed, you can contact the main campus or find the contact person for your records on the closed institutions contact list.


DISCLAIMER: This office cannot give legal advice to any individual or take any legal action on behalf of any individual.

Last Updated: 9/6/2021