Does Title IX apply to every school?

It applies to schools that receive federal financial assistance. Some private schools that take no federal funds are not covered, and a religiously controlled school may have an exemption; in those cases duties usually come from state law and school policy.

Title IX: sex-based harassment at school

Title IX protects students from sex-based harassment at schools that receive federal funding. A plain-language overview.

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination based on sex — including sexual harassment and gender-based harassment — at schools and colleges that receive federal financial assistance.

What it can cover

Sexual harassment.
Gender-based bullying and harassment.
Harassment based on sex stereotypes.

What schools must do

When a school knows or should know of possible sex-based harassment, it must take prompt and effective steps to investigate, stop the harassment, and address its effects. Schools that receive federal funds have a Title IX coordinator.

Where to go

Report in writing and ask for the school's Title IX coordinator.
You can also file a complaint with the U.S. Dept. of Education's Office for Civil Rights — see the OCR complaint guide.

Public vs. private schools

Title IX applies to schools that receive federal financial assistance. Some private schools that take no federal funds aren't covered, and a school controlled by a religious organization may have an exemption. In those cases, duties usually come from state law, the school's own policies, and your enrollment contract.

Not legal advice

General information only — not legal advice, and details vary by situation.

Authoritative sources

Frequently asked questions

What does Title IX cover?: Title IX prohibits sex discrimination, including sexual harassment and gender-based harassment, at schools and colleges that receive federal funding.
What must a school do under Title IX?: When a school knows or should know of possible sex-based harassment, it must take prompt and effective steps to investigate, stop the harassment, and address its effects. Funded schools have a Title IX coordinator.
Does Title IX apply to every school?: It applies to schools that receive federal financial assistance. Some private schools that take no federal funds are not covered, and a religiously controlled school may have an exemption; in those cases duties usually come from state law and school policy.

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General information — not legal advice

This guide is general information to help you get organized, not legal or mental-health advice, and it doesn't guarantee any outcome. Laws and school policies vary and change. For your specific situation, consult a licensed professional or your state's education agency. In an emergency call 911; for a mental-health crisis call or text 988.

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