Results

Purpose The Principles of Accreditation Revision Committee ensures that the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) maintains standards that are clear, relevant, and responsive to the evolving higher education landscape. The committee provides leadership in reviewing, clarifying, and recommending revisions to the Principles of Accreditation, which serve as the foundation for […]

The SACSCOC Board of Trustees approved the use of a Stamp of Accreditation for all institutions it accredits.  This Stamp signifies to the public that the institution has successfully demonstrated compliance with all of the Principles of Accreditation and assures the educational quality and effectiveness of the institution. The terms of use are included in […]

All institutions accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
(SACSCOC) are required to undergo a review for reaffirmation of accreditation every ten (10) years. After
being granted initial accreditation, new member institutions will be reviewed for reaffirmation of
accreditation after five (5) years, then every ten (10) years thereafter. While maintaining the rigor associated
with the reaffirmation of accreditation process, member institutions may participate in a Differentiated
Review Process if they meet eligibility requirements. The reaffirmation review occurs in accordance with
procedures outlined in pertinent SACSCOC documents including handbooks and other policies (see the
Principles of Accreditation and the “Handbook for Institutions Seeking Reaffirmation of Accreditation”).
The differentiated review process will include compiling and submitting a modified Compliance
Certification, documenting compliance with the Principles of Accreditation, and submitting a Quality
Enhancement Plan for review by evaluation committees. The Differentiated Review Process includes offsite and on-site reviews and institutions document fewer The Principles of Accreditation standards during
the initial process (institutions may need to address additional standards based on reports or supplemental
information discovered). Institutions may not participate in the Differentiated Review process for two
consecutive decennial reaffirmation of accreditation processes.

January 13, 2026 DECATUR, Ga. – The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) is pleased to announce the election of David L. Barnett, Ph.D., President of Brenau University, as Chair of the SACSCOC Board of Trustees, effective December 9, 2025. Barnett was affirmed by his peers at the Commission’s Annual Meeting […]

Thank you for agreeing to serve as a member of the Fifth-Year Interim Review Committee. This site contains materials to help you prepare for the work ahead and useful resources that will assist you as you begin your reviews. Before reading any further, make this webpage one of your Favorites, so that you can quickly and easily […]

Accrediting Standards 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, […]

Call for Proposals for the 2024 Annual Meeting Deadline: Monday, May 20, 2024 at 2:00 pm (Eastern Time) We are excited to announce the Call for Proposals for our 2024 SACSCOC Annual Meeting. Set against the backdrop of the bustling city of Austin, Texas, we invite you to consider contributing to the conference by submitting […]

2026 SACSCOC Annual Meeting Conference Theme:  Exploring New Frontiers in Accreditation Higher education stands at a pivotal moment, one defined by rapid change, evolving expectations, and extraordinary opportunity. From shifting federal and state priorities to the expanding role of technology, from growing questions about the value of a degree to new demands for workforce-ready graduates, […]

Thank you for agreeing to serve as a member of the Off-Site Reaffirmation Committee. This site contains materials to help you prepare for the work ahead and useful resources that will assist you as you begin your reviews. Before reading any further, make this webpage one of your Favorites, so that you can quickly and […]