Find answers to common questions about IAA accreditation.
IAA accreditation is a voluntary process through which higher education institutions demonstrate that they meet internationally recognized standards of quality. It provides assurance to students, employers, and governments that an institution delivers education of a high standard.
The entire process typically takes 12-18 months from initial application to final decision. This includes the eligibility review (1-2 months), self-evaluation period (6-12 months), site visit, and council decision.
Costs vary depending on the size and complexity of the institution. IAA provides a detailed fee schedule upon request. Fees cover the application review, site visit expenses, and administrative costs.
Full accreditation is granted for a period of 7 years. Institutions must submit a mid-cycle review report at the 3.5-year mark and undergo full reaccreditation before the expiry date.
Yes, IAA offers both institutional accreditation (covering the entire institution) and programme-specific accreditation (evaluating individual academic programmes against discipline-specific standards).
Yes, IAA accreditation is recognized by education ministries and quality assurance agencies in over 45 countries. IAA is a member of international networks including ENQA and INQAAHE, and has partnership agreements with UNESCO and the World Bank.
IAA uses a comprehensive framework aligned with the European Standards and Guidelines (ESG) and covers: governance, academic quality, student services, research, resources, and institutional effectiveness. The 2026-2030 standards introduce enhanced criteria for digital learning.
If significant gaps are identified, the Accreditation Council may grant conditional accreditation (with specific conditions to address within a set timeframe) or defer the decision pending further evidence. IAA works collaboratively with institutions to help them meet standards.
Begin by contacting IAA at info@iaa-accreditation.org or visiting our Contact page. We will schedule an initial consultation to discuss eligibility, process, and timelines. The formal application form is available upon request.