NC S20

Consolidates four separate school categories (proprietary business schools, trade schools, technical schools, and correspondence schools) into a single "proprietary school" definition under G.S. 115D-87.

Expands proprietary school definition to include institutions with physical presence in North Carolina that are privately owned, charge tuition, and offer instruction in programs leading to licensing exams, employment, or credentials below the associate degree level, including distance education.

Removes exemption for classes taught to five or fewer students and adds exemption for institutions exempt from licensure under G.S. 116-15(c).

Requires proprietary schools to provide refunds of at least 75% of tuition if a student withdraws within the first 25% of the enrollment period, or full refund if withdrawal occurs before the first day of class.

Updates North Carolina General Statutes chapters 115D-87 through 115D-97 to use unified "proprietary school" terminology throughout licensing, bonding, and enforcement provisions, effective July 1, 2011.