text: You have two strands of activity to follow at the same time in order to start a private school.\n\nFirst strand:  Establishing the Business\n\nYou will need to write a business plan (outline of your services and fees, costs, growth plan, personnel plan, etc.) and, if you need starting capital, take it to a bank for a starter loan. Probably several banks.  If you already have your seed money, or are approved for your loan, you will need to apply to the state for a business license, register with the state and federal tax departments, and obtain approval from your local government for your business location/zoning. Your local Better Business Bureau can direct you to someone who can help you with all this.\n\n\nSecond strand: Obtaining a license to operate a private school from your state Department of Education, including obtaining accreditation.\n\nFor example, here's the information for New Mexico: http://www.ped.state.nm.us/alted/private_schools/index.html\n\n\nGood luck!