The National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (NC-SARA) is a private nonprofit organization [501(c)(3)] that helps expand students’ access to educational opportunities and ensure more efficient, consistent, and effective regulation of distance education programs.

Recognizing the growing demand for distance education opportunities, higher education stakeholders—including state regulators and education leaders, accreditors, the U.S. Department of Education, and institutions—joined together in 2013 to establish the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements (SARA), which streamline regulations around distance education programs.

In partnership with four regional compacts, NC-SARA helps states, institutions, policymakers, and students understand the purpose and benefits of participating in SARA. Today, more than 2,200 institutions in 49 member states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands all voluntarily participate in SARA.

Why NC-SARA Matters:

• Improves distance education program quality nationwide.
• Makes it easier for students to access distance education programs across state lines.
• Reduces costs and bureaucracy for states and institutions.
• Improves coordination between states on higher education opportunities.
• Provides valuable oversight of distance education programs.
• Shares out-of-state learning experience data like clinical hours and practice teaching.

SARA Compliance, Disclosure & Dispute Resolution

Licensure/Certification Disclose

Hawaii Medical College programs are designed to meet the license requirements in the State of Hawaii. At this time, Hawaii Medical College cannot confirm whether our programs below meet requirements for licensure outside of Hawaii. Out-of-state students should contact their state licensing board to ensure our program meets their requirements before enrolling. To learn more, click here to download the licensure/certification disclosure for all states: SARA Professional Licensure Disclosure

• Clinical Medical Assistant
• Healthcare Administration Billing and Coding
• Pharmacy Technician

Student Complaints

Click here to download a copy of the HMC Complaint Policy and Procedure: HMC Complaint Policy and Procedure

Any individual that has a concern or problem regarding any aspect of the operation of Hawaii Medical College may file a grievance with the administration. The grievance filing form is available online at https://www.hmi.edu/grievance-form. A formal review of the submitted form will be conducted, and the administration will act on the grievance within 15 business days.

In addition, individuals may contact
Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs
335 Merchant Street,
Room 310,
Honolulu, HI 96813
808-586-7327

Hawaii Medical College’s accreditation body, the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET), to resolve any conflicts. Contact ACCET by phone at (202) 955-1113 or by mail at
ACCET, Chair,
Complaint Review Committee,
1722 N Street NW,
Washington, D.C. 20036.