The NH Postsecondary Education Commission is a coordinating state agency working with colleges, universities and career schools in all sectors (profit and nonprofit; independent and public) to protect students and promote access through financial aid.  Responsibilities include administering seven financial aid programs; approving degree-granting colleges and universities, and licensing career schools that have a physical presence in NH; approving programs for eligible veterans utilizing their Montgomery GI Bill benefits; providing copies of closed school transcripts to former students; and conducting research and studies related to postsecondary education.

There are two unique aspects of the Commission. The first is that the Commission works with all sectors; this is not the case in most states. Secondly, the Commission supports a higher education peer review process as is reflected in the Commission membership. Currently, the Commission is comprised of the following members:

• Commissioner of the N.H. Department of Education (K-12)
• Chancellor of the University System of New Hampshire
• Chancellor of the Community College System of New Hampshire
• President from a Public Two-Year College or University
• Rep from a College or University not a member of the N.H. College & University Council
• Representative from a Four-Year Public College or University
• Representative from the N.H. Council for Professional Education
• 3 Presidents from a Four-Year Public College or University
• 6 Representatives from a Private College or University
• 4 Lay Members
• 1 Student Representative

Benefits to Students:

• Bonded – Insures deposits and fees from school closure
• Records –Records retention to ensure students have access to proof of course & program completions
• Oversight – Student investments protected and governed by a government institution
• Placement – Placement services available for specified certificate and degree programs.