Veterans - State Approving Agency (SAA) - Oregon Department of Education

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Veterans - State Approving Agency (SAA)

The State Approving Agency (SAA) is an office of the Oregon Department of Education tasked with the responsibility of approving programs offered at public and private educational institutions in Oregon for those eligible for GI Bill education benefits. These programs must have SAA approval before veterans and other eligible persons may receive educational benefits (GI Bill) from the US Department of Veterans Affairs under the authority of Title 38, U.S. Code and Chapter 1606 Title 10.

The types of training establishments with VA approved programs include the following:

Colleges and Universities
Community Colleges
Vocational Schools
Business Schools
Professional Schools
High Schools

Core functions or responsibilities of the SAA:

Program approval
Review, evaluate, and approve quality programs of education using state and federal criteria including institutional policies and procedures.

Facility oversight
Conduct annual on-site supervisory visits to educational institutions with approved programs to determine continued compliance with appropriate state and federal laws and regulations; inspection visits to evaluate new programs; visits as requested by the Department of Veterans Affairs; or visits to provide technical assistance.

Outreach
Disseminate information brochures regarding use of the GI Bill and programs available; work with other State Agencies or other interested parties to provide information or assistance regarding the GI Bill.

Liaison
Provide follow-up information on VA denials; meet with school officials, state veterans organizations, or any other appropriate organizations to provide information and promote GI Bill usage.

In addition, the SAA may provide other services that are not performed by any other agency:

Provide consultative services on state laws and regulations concerned with education institutions and training establishments.
Serve as an unbiased and neutral third party between schools, between schools and the public, or between schools and other governmental agencies so that differences can be resolved without the need for litigation.
Provide recommendations for legislation that enhances the education and training of veterans and other eligible persons.
Serve as an agency of the government that can assist educational institutions not desiring accreditation or not qualifying for accreditation but offering training that benefits the community, state, and nation.
Provide qualified, professional education and training specialists as resource persons in such areas as administration, curriculum, personnel, and evaluation.
Provide timely follow-up in instances of alleged unethical practices by education institutions.
Provide workshops to assist personnel in better understanding criteria for programs in general or in evaluating specific fields of endeavor.

To utilize the searchable database of VA approved educational programs in Oregon, click here.

The SAA also approves tests required for certification or licensure in an occupation. The cost of such tests may be reimbursable using GI Bill benefits. For further information, contact the Oregon State Approving Agency.

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