School application process

1. Requirement. A person, firm, association, corporation, partnership, or other entity may not operate a school in this state without a current school license issued by the board. 2. Application process - Two phases. The application process for a cosmetology school license must consist of two phases: a. A preliminary phase; and b. A formal application phase. 3. Preliminary phase requirements. a. Purpose. The preliminary phase allows the board to review key operational and instructional documents and conduct an interview with the applicant before a formal application is submitted, ensuring understanding and ability to meet the requirements for licensure. The preliminary phase includes the following: b. Submission of documents. Prior to scheduling an interview, the applicant shall submit the following documents to the board for review, the specific requirements and content as determined by the board: (1) Curriculum outline for each program offered; (2) Sample program schedule; (3) Comprehensive policy and procedure manual; (4) Student contract; and (5) Detailed floor plan. c. Initial review. The board's school compliance committee or designated representative shall conduct an initial review of the submitted documents. Upon satisfactory initial review, the board office shall schedule an interview between the applicant and the board's school compliance committee. The committee may request additional information or clarification on the submitted documents prior to the interview. d. Interview with school compliance committee. The applicant or designated representatives, with direct knowledge of the proposed operations and curriculum, shall attend an interview with the school compliance committee. The interview serves to further evaluate the applicant's preparedness and understanding of regulatory requirements. e. Authorization to proceed. Following the document submission, review, and interview with the school compliance committee, the board shall determine if the applicant is authorized to proceed with the formal application. The board shall notify the applicant in writing of the board's decision. Authorization to proceed does not guarantee formal licensure but indicates that the applicant's plans and demonstrated understanding appear to meet the necessary standards for schools. 4. Formal application phase requirements. Upon receiving authorization to proceed from the preliminary phase, the applicant may submit a formal application for a school license on forms provided by the board. 5. Required submissions. The formal application must be accompanied by: a. The applicable license fee; b. Documentation demonstrating the school is operated and maintained separate from any cosmetology establishment or other business excluding affiliated schools; c. Evidence of possessing equipment sufficient for the proper and full teaching of all programs, as required by North Dakota Century Code chapter 43-11 and rule; d. Documentation verifying the school employs at least two full-time equivalent licensed instructors and detailing the planned required student-to-instructor ratio; e. A copy of the bond in the penal sum of ten thousand dollars as outlined in North Dakota Century Code chapter 43-11; and f. Any other documentation or information deemed necessary by the board to evaluate the application and ensure compliance with all applicable laws and rules. 6. Board review and inspection. The board shall review the formal application and conduct an opening inspection of the proposed premises and facilities to verify compliance. 7. Issuance of license. Upon satisfactory review of the formal application and successful inspection, the board shall issue a school license.