If you manage an institution of higher learning or a degree-granting academy and need your NAICS code, here is your answer right away.
The NAICS code for a university is 611310, classified under Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools in the Educational Services sector.
| Field | Details |
| NAICS Code | 611310 |
| Industry Title | Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools |
| Sector | 61 (Educational Services) |
| Industry Group | 6113 (Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools) |
| Last Updated | 2022 NAICS Edition |
What Does NAICS Code 611310 Cover?
According to the official 2022 NAICS data, code 611310 covers establishments primarily engaged in furnishing academic courses and granting degrees at baccalaureate or graduate levels. Admission typically requires at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
In simple terms, this code applies to any institution that provides higher education and awards recognized degrees. This includes:
According to the official 2022 NAICS data, code 611310 covers establishments primarily engaged in furnishing academic courses and granting degrees at baccalaureate or graduate levels. Admission typically requires at least a high school diploma or equivalent.
In simple terms, this code applies to any institution that provides higher education and awards recognized degrees. This includes:
- Universities and Colleges: Large institutions offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Professional Schools: Specialized institutions like Law schools, Medical schools, and Dental schools.
- Military Service Academies: College-level training for the armed forces (e.g., West Point or the Coast Guard Academy).
- Theological Seminaries: Institutions offering baccalaureate or graduate degrees in theology.
- Music and Arts Conservatories: Higher education institutions specializing in performing or fine arts that grant degrees.
- Online Universities: Establishments providing degree-level courses exclusively through the Internet or mobile applications.
The important distinction here is the granting of degrees. This code is for institutions that lead to a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate.
Does My Institution Qualify for Code 611310?
Your institution qualifies for NAICS code 611310 if:
- You provide academic instruction at the post-secondary level.
- You have the authority to grant baccalaureate (Bachelor’s) or graduate degrees.
- Your primary mission is formal education rather than vocational or job-specific trade training.
Your institution may not qualify if:
- You are a Community or Junior College: If you primarily grant associate degrees or certificates below the baccalaureate level, use 611210.
- You are a Business or Secretarial School: If you offer office and clerical training without offering academic degrees, use 611410.
- You are a Technical or Trade School: If you provide job-specific vocational training (e.g., welding, cosmetology, or truck driving) leading to certification, use 611519.
- You are a Preparatory School: Elementary or secondary schools (K-12) fall under 611110.
Where Will You Need This Code?
Your NAICS code is required for several administrative, financial, and legal procedures:
Federal Grants and Research Funding. Universities applying for research grants from agencies like the NIH, NSF, or Department of Education must register on SAM.gov using code 611310.
SBA Loan Applications. If a private college or university is seeking financing for expansion or equipment, the Small Business Administration requires this code to assess the risk profile of the higher education industry.
Business Registration. Most state and local licensing boards require a NAICS code to categorize the entity when filing for non-profit status or incorporation.
Business Insurance. Insurance providers use 611310 to determine risk categories for campus-related activities, student housing, and professional liability for educators.
Tax Filings and Compliance. The IRS uses this code to monitor compliance for tax-exempt organizations and to gather statistical data on the higher education sector.
611310 in the NAICS Hierarchy
Every NAICS code sits inside a structured hierarchy. Here is exactly where 611310 fits:
| Level | Code | Title |
| Sector | 61 | Educational Services |
| Subsector | 611 | Educational Services |
| Industry Group | 6113 | Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools |
| NAICS Industry | 61131 | Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools |
| National Industry | 611310 | Colleges, Universities, and Professional Schools |
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