Most private postsecondary, career, and vocational schools in Florida must hold a license from the Commission for Independent Education (CIE), which operates under the Florida Department of Education. The license is your legal right to operate — to advertise, enroll, and collect tuition in the state.
Who needs a CIE license
If you intend to offer instruction leading to a diploma, certificate, or degree to Florida students for tuition, you generally need CIE licensure unless a specific exemption applies. Operating without the required license carries real legal and financial risk.
What the CIE application requires
- A registered business entity and program descriptions with clock or credit hours
- Faculty credentials matched to the programs taught
- A catalog and enrollment agreement meeting CIE content rules
- Financial statements demonstrating stability and refund capacity
- Surety bonding and the required student-protection fund contribution
- A compliant facility (zoning, fire, occupancy)
Licensing is only the first milestone
A CIE license is not accreditation and does not by itself make students eligible for federal aid. Plan for licensing, then accreditation by a recognized agency, then Title IV — each builds on the same evidence base.
How Cole Middleton Advisors helps
We are based in Orlando and work with career and postsecondary schools across Florida. We assemble licensure-ready documentation, align programs and records to CIE expectations, and sequence licensing, accreditation, and Title IV so each milestone sets up the next.
Planning a Florida school, or preparing for renewal or review? We are based in Orlando and can help.