What Is
Accreditation?
Accreditation is one of the most important things to check before enrolling in any program, but it’s easy to overlook. Here’s what accreditation actually means, why it matters, and how to confirm a school has it.
What Does Accreditation Mean?
What does accreditation mean, in plain terms? It’s a formal process where an independent accrediting body reviews a school or program to confirm it meets certain standards for quality and educational content. Accredited schools have gone through this review; unaccredited ones haven’t, and that distinction can affect nearly every part of your education, from whether you qualify for financial aid to whether your credits transfer later.
Why Accreditation Matters
- Financial Aid — Financial Aid may be available for those who qualify, but federal aid generally requires attending an accredited institution
- Credit Transfer — Credits from accredited schools are far more likely to transfer to another institution if your plans change
- Licensing & Employment — Many employers and state licensing boards only recognize training from accredited programs, especially in regulated fields like healthcare and education
Regional vs. National Accreditation
What is regional accreditation, and how is it different from national accreditation? Regional accreditation has traditionally been associated with nonprofit and academic institutions, while national accreditation is more commonly held by career-focused, vocational, or for-profit schools. Neither type is automatically “better” — what matters most is whether the specific accreditation is recognized for your goals, particularly if you plan to transfer credits or pursue a degree at another institution later.
How to Verify a School Is Accredited
The U.S. Department of Education maintains a public database of recognized accrediting agencies, making it possible to confirm accredited schools by the department of education directly rather than relying on a school’s own claims. Before enrolling, it’s worth checking:
- Whether the specific program (not just the school overall) is accredited
- Which accrediting body granted the accreditation
- Whether that accrediting body is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
Common Questions About accreditation
What is accreditation, exactly?
Accreditation is a formal review process where an independent accrediting body confirms a school or program meets established standards for educational quality.
How do I find accredited schools near me?
DegreeFlex only matches you with accredited schools and programs, so every option you see through our matching service has already been reviewed for accreditation.
What is accreditation of prior learning?
Accreditation of prior learning is a process some schools use to evaluate and award academic credit for skills or knowledge you’ve already gained through work experience, military service, or previous coursework.
Is national accreditation as good as regional accreditation?
Both are legitimate, but they’re typically used by different types of institutions. Regional accreditation is more common among traditional academic institutions, while national accreditation is more common among career and vocational schools. What matters most is whether the accreditation fits your specific goals.
Why does accreditation matter for financial aid?
Financial Aid may be available for those who qualify, but eligibility for most federal financial aid programs requires attending a school with recognized accreditation.
Ready to Explore Accredited Programs?
Answer a few quick questions and see accredited programs matched to you — free, with no obligation.