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Start Your Accreditation Journey with ACCWE
Ready to pursue accreditation with ACCWE? Whether you're a career college, trade school, or innovative training provider, our goal is to make the process straightforward, supportive, and rooted in practical value. We promise to be worth your investment of time, energy, and trust—for your team and your students.
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get accredited
Basic Eligibility
Checklist
Before starting your application, make sure your institution meets these key criteria:
✔️ Offers career-focused, postsecondary education or training programs.Programs lead to meaningful employment outcomes for students.
✔️ Has been operating for at least two years, or meets alternate experience benchmarks.
✔️ Is legally established, authorized to operate in the U.S., and meets applicable state licensing requirements.
✔️ Maintains sufficient administrative and financial capacity to support students and meet accreditation responsibilities.
✔️ Is not subject to unresolved legal, regulatory, or civil actions that raise concerns about integrity or fitness for accreditation.
✔️ Collects and reports reliable student outcome data, including completion, placement, and licensure (if applicable).
What to Expect from the Accreditation Process
Inquiry & Initial
Consultation
Submit a brief form to introduce your institution. Our team will follow up to discuss next steps.
1
Eligibility
Confirmation
We’ll help you determine if your institution meets ACCWE’s basic eligibility requirements.
2
Formal Application
Submission
Once eligible, you’ll submit your official application along with required documentation.
3
Self-Study & Evidence Collection
Your team will complete a self-study, demonstrating how your institution aligns with ACCWE standards.
4
ACCWE
Review Process
ACCWE will review your materials and conduct an on-site evaluation.
5
Accreditation Decision & Ongoing Support
You'll receive a decision with detailed feedback—plus ongoing support to help you succeed long-term.
6
FAQs
How long does applying for ACCWE accreditation take?
On average, the process takes 6 to 12 months, depending on your institution’s readiness and responsiveness.
Is ACCWE recognized by the Department of Education?
ACCWE is actively pursuing recognition and is committed to maintaining the standards and processes required for federal recognition.
What types of institutions does ACCWE accredit?
We serve career colleges, trade schools, technical programs, and innovative training providers focused on workforce outcomes.
What does ACCWE look for in accredited institutions?
We focus on student outcomes, educational quality, institutional integrity, and continuous improvement.
How much does accreditation with ACCWE cost?
ACCWE’s fee structure is designed to be transparent and affordable for career-focused institutions. Detailed fee information is provided during the eligibility consultation.
Does ACCWE accreditation make my institution Title IV eligible?
Not yet. ACCWE is actively pursuing U.S. Department of Education recognition. Until recognition is granted, accreditation with ACCWE does not qualify institutions for federal financial aid programs.
Ready to Take the First Step?
Fill out our short inquiry form, and a member of the ACCWE team will reach out to discuss your next steps.
