About SACSCOC

Your degree is only as good as the institution behind it. We make sure it stands up.

The Commission on Colleges and Schools, formerly SACSCOC, sets the standard for higher education quality around the United States and the world, so that students, employers, and communities can trust what a degree means.

We accredit more than 780 colleges and universities committed to student success, academic quality, and continuous improvement.

Through a peer-driven process grounded in evidence and integrity, The Commission helps institutions strengthen outcomes, build trust, and serve students effectively.

Students First, Always.

Mission Statement

The mission of The Commission on Colleges and Universities, formerly the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, is to assure the educational quality and improve the effectiveness of its member institutions.

The Commission on Colleges and Universities President Dr. Stephen L. Pruitt joins graduates in celebrating Texas Southmost College's 2026 commencement.

SACSCOC at a Glance

  • 780+ Accredited Institutions
  • Serving Students Across the U.S. and the World
  • Students First, Always

Pruitt's Law or Lore

Clearing up the most persistent myths in accreditation.

SACSCOC News

Insights, data, and stories from across The Commission on Colleges and Universities member institutions.

Accreditation

To gain or maintain accreditation with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC), an institution must comply with the standards contained in the Principles of Accreditation: Foundations for Quality Enhancement and with the policies and procedures of the Commission. SACSCOC applies the requirements of its Principles to all applicant, candidate, and member institutions, regardless of type of institution (public, private for-profit, or private not-for-profit).

For more information about Accreditation, please follow the links below:

  • Summer Institute 2026

    The Commission’s Summer Institute 2026
    July 19-22 | Atlanta, Georgia

    Learn More
    Upcoming Events
  • Commission News

    News, updates, and highlights about The Commission on Colleges and Universities.

    Learn More
    Stack of Newspapers
  • Resource Manual for 2024 Principles of Accreditation

    The Resource Manual for the 2024 Principles of Accreditation: Foundations for Quality Enhancement is now available on  our website.

    Learn More
  • Commission Testimonials

    Commission staff, leaders, and annual meeting participants reflect on the value of accreditation in higher education and the importance of continuous improvement.

    Learn More
  • Careers

    Explore careers at The Commission.

    Learn More
    SACSCOC Office
  • 2024 Annual Report and Proceedings

    To view the 2024 Annual Report please click here.

    Learn More
  • Belle S. Wheelan Opportunity Scholarship

    The Board of Trustees established the Belle S. Wheelan Opportunity Scholarship.

    Learn More
  • Holding Educational Institutions to High Standards

    To gain or maintain accreditation with the Commission, an institution must comply with the standards contained in the Principles of Accreditation: Foundations for Quality Enhancement

    Learn More
    Covers of Standards from Criteria to current Principles
  • 100 Day Plan

    Dr. Pruitt announces 100 day package with webinars.  Click here for more information.

    Learn More