The U.S. Department of Education has officially recognized Grand Canyon University's status as a nonprofit institution of higher education. This regulatory approval brings the Department of Education's classification in line with previous affirmations from the IRS, the Higher Learning Commission, the State of Arizona, the Arizona Board for Private Postsecondary Education, and the NCAA. The decision follows a unanimous Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals ruling and a four-year IRS audit, both of which supported GCU's nonprofit designation. This recognition allows GCU increased access to nonprofit-specific grant funding, eligibility for government relief funds, and solidifies its standing in NCAA Athletics. No indication was given that this approval or related funding applies to organizations other than Grand Canyon University.