Washington Degree-Granting Institutions Bond
Overview
Starting or operating a degree-granting institution in Washington? You need this bond before the state will authorize you to enroll students and issue credentials. Washington requires degree-granting institutions to post a surety bond as a financial guarantee that they will operate in compliance with state requirements and protect students from harm. This bond is a non-negotiable part of your authorization to legally offer degree programs in the state.
Who Needs This Bond?
Private colleges, universities, and vocational schools that award degrees are the primary applicants for this bond. This includes new institutions seeking initial authorization, existing schools renewing their state authorization, and out-of-state institutions establishing a physical presence or enrolling Washington residents. If you grant associate, bachelor's, master's, doctoral, or professional degrees to students in Washington, this bond applies to you.
What is this Bond For?
Washington requires this bond to protect students and the public from financial harm caused by a degree-granting institution that fails to meet its obligations. If your school closes unexpectedly, misrepresents its programs, or otherwise violates state authorization requirements, the bond provides a financial remedy for affected students. The bond holds your institution accountable to the standards set by the authorizing agency and gives students a path to recovery if those standards are violated.
When is it Required?
This bond is requested at the point of application for degree-granting authorization in Washington — before the state will grant you the legal right to operate and enroll students. You will need to submit proof of the bond as part of your authorization package. Institutions already operating under a prior authorization will encounter this requirement when renewing or updating their credentials with the state.
Where Does it Apply?
This is a statewide Washington requirement. It applies to any institution granting degrees to students in Washington, regardless of where the school is headquartered. The bond obligation runs to the State of Washington and protects students enrolled in programs offered within the state.
How to Buy Online
Click 'Buy This Bond Online' to open the secure surety portal in a new tab. Complete your application, and your bond documents will be processed quickly — no waiting on an agent callback. Once issued, you receive the bond documentation you need to submit with your state authorization application.
Why Bond Titan?
Bond Titan is powered by The Southern Agency, giving you access to a nationwide surety bond catalog through a fast, fully online platform. You can purchase your Washington Degree-Granting Institutions Bond without phone calls, office visits, or delays. We make it straightforward so you can focus on getting your institution authorized and operational.