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Accreditation Cycles and Processes
On This PageSeeking Initial Accreditation
Colleges and universities may be eligible to seek accreditation with IHELC. We offer two routes to achieving accreditation.
Eligibility Process and Candidacy
For degree-granting colleges and universities in the United States.
Learn about Eligibility and CandidacyAccelerated Process for Initial Accreditation
For eligible institutions accredited by recognized accreditors.
Learn about the Accelerated ProcessStandard and Open Pathways
Accredited institutions complete periodic activities and reviews on a 10-year cycle to ensure they continue to meet IHELC requirements.
Accreditation Processes
Institutional Update
IHELC conducts an annual survey on the organizational health of accredited institutions.
Substantive Change
Member institutions notify IHELC or obtain approval for certain changes.
Comprehensive Evaluation
Evaluations take place throughout an institution’s relationship with IHELC.
Assurance Review
A comprehensive evaluation and stand-alone review in the 10-year cycle.
Quality Initiatives
Institutions design and implement projects to improve an aspect of their organization.
Additional Location and Branch Campus Reviews
IHELC evaluates additional locations and branch campuses.
Risk Indicators
IHELC analyzes financial and non-financial indicators of institutional risk.
Monitoring
IHELC identifies issues of concern and may request additional monitoring.
Teach-Out Arrangements
Used when campuses, locations, or programs close.
Actions by Government Agencies and Accreditors
IHELC responds to actions by agencies or other accreditors.
Sanctions, Show-Cause and Adverse Actions
Applied when an institution is out of compliance.
Voluntary Resignation
An institution may voluntarily resign its accreditation.
Decision Making
Each institutional review concludes with a decision-making process that prioritizes due process and transparency.
Systems and Resources
- IHELC’s Online Systems: Use Canopy and other platforms to manage your accreditation relationship.
- Documents and Forms: Explore our index of process materials for institutions.
- Training Resources: Browse upcoming events and resources.