QAHE Accreditation

Accreditation Handbook for Training/Institutional/Programmatic Accreditation

The decisions to apply for institutional accreditation/training accreditation and to continue through the accreditation process are voluntary. Applicant institutions for initial accreditation or reaccreditation may at any time drop out of the accreditation process, subject to their continuing obligation for the payment of any required fees and already incurred expenses.

As mentioned in our Objective, peer review lies at the core of the accreditation process for institutions of higher education worldwide. At the same time, QAHE shares with other accrediting organizations and educational regulators the recognition that peer review by its nature is susceptible to subjectivity, potential conflicts of interest, and human error or bias. The accreditation processes and procedures developed by QAHE have been carefully designed to safeguard the integrity and quality of institutional and program reviews. Additionally, we also offer OSH Programmatic accreditation jointly with OSHAssociation, UK

The right of due process does not mean that the QAHE will agree with or accept an institution’s response or recommendations. In addition, the burden of proof in demonstrating compliance with the standards rests with the institution at each stage of QAHE’s evaluation and decision process and through any appellate process exercised by an institution.

Institutions that elect to seek accreditation from QAHE or have been institutionally or programmatically accredited by QAHE must agree to be bound by and comply with the terms of published policies, standards, and procedures, including those set forth in the QAHE Accreditation Handbook.

Successful completion of any one step is required before an institution can proceed to the next step; however, successful completion of a prior step does not guarantee successful completion of any subsequent step. Applying for accreditation or reaccreditation is a voluntary process. Accordingly, an institution may at any time during its pursuit of accreditation decide to withdraw from the process and end its application.

QAHE reserves the right to limit its accreditation process to the kinds of institutions and types of programs that are within its scope of expertise and to decline to consider institutions and programs for accreditation that are outside QAHE’s scope or competence or where other circumstances do not permit a meaningful evaluation. The institution assumes the burden of proof in demonstrating that its curricula, operating structure, and method of delivery are within QAHE’s recognized scope of authority.

Accreditation is a voluntary, non-governmental peer review process. Institutional Accreditation or /Training Accreditation by the QAHE shall be understood to convey only that the higher education institution meets the QAHE´s educational standards. Such recognition is not in any way intended to substitute legal authorization, recognition or regulation, through compliance with local government laws. Legal authorization, recognition or regulation, and government accreditation occur in the context of different reviews. QAHE stands out among international non-governmental independent accrediting agencies due to its extensive national and international recognitions across Europe, Asia, and Africa. Unlike many accrediting agencies that focus on specific regions or countries, QAHE has garnered recognition from prestigious organizations and agencies worldwide:

• - National Agency for Quality Assurance in Education and Research, (ANACEC) the Republic of Moldova
• - Directorate for Research, Planning, and Funding Accreditation, North Macedonia
• - "Sapattuu Bilim" Agency for Accreditation of Educational Organizations and Programs, Kyrgyz Republic
• - Accreditation Council for Education “LAMDIK”, Indonesia (ACE)
• - Technology and Human Association (TEKINDER), Turkey
• - Council on International Higher Education Supervision (CONIES) Austria
• - Public Foundation Independent Accreditation Agency "BILIM-STANDARD" of Kyrgyz Republic
• - Agency for the Accreditation of Educational Programs and Organizations (AAEPO) of Kyrgyz Republic
• - The Information Systems Security Association, Egypt Chapter (ISSA Egypt)
• - Independent Accreditation Agency “Elbaasy”, Kyrgyz Republic
• - Higher Education Council of Syria
• - Agency for Quality Assurance in Education (EdNet) of Kyrgyz Republic
• - National Industrial Safety Council of Nigeria
• - Arab Organization for Quality Assurance in Education (AROQA)
• - All Pakistan Private Schools' Federation (APPSF), Pakistan
• - Tamilnadu Council for Open and Distance Learning, India
• - Talal Abu-Ghazaleh for Quality Assurance in Education (TAG-EDUQA)

Eligibility Criteria

• An educational institution or provider is defined by QAHE as an educational institution or organization whose primary purpose is providing education or training that:
  • formally enrolls students and maintains student records;
  • retains qualified faculty to service students;
  • provides educationally sound and up-to-date curricula that are supported by quality instructional materials and appropriate technology; and
  • provides continuous two-way communication on student work, e.g., evaluating students’ examinations, projects, and/or answering queries, with timely feedback given to students.
• The institution has clearly articulated outcomes for its educational offerings and has an ongoing outcomes assessment program in place designed to measure student achievement and satisfaction.
• The institution maintains a permanent physical facility that supports its educational offerings and business operations in a professional setting. The facility is maintained at a fixed geographic location that is appropriately licensed or authorized, as required by local and state regulatory authorities.
• The institution demonstrates that its name is free from any association with any activity that could damage the standing of QAHE or of the accrediting process, such as illegal actions, unethical conduct, or abuse of consumers.
• The institution and the institution’s owners, governing board members, officials, and administrators possess sound reputations and show a record of integrity and ethical conduct in their professional activities, business operations, and relations. The owners, governing board members, officials, and administrators have records free from any association with any malfeasance, including, but not limited to, owning, managing, or controlling any educational institutions that have entered bankruptcy or have closed, to the detriment of the students.

Evaluation Procedure

The first step is the submission of application form by the applicant institution (for Training Accreditation or Educational Accreditation). Certificate of Incorporation/Registration and/or the ID Card/Passport main page and CV of the owner shall be provided to the Committee as well. Please also send us photos from the location showing your office/school and study location, if you deliver courses online, we need a demo access as a student. To enhance the process, please feel; free to send us your license/state approval or other accreditation certificates if there's any. Your website, curriculum, teaching staff’s qualifications will be critically reviewed.

When it comes to evaluating institutions, QAHE strives for efficiency without compromising the quality and standards of the assessment.

Streamlined Documentation Review: QAHE begins by conducting a comprehensive review of the documentation provided by the institution seeking evaluation. This includes curriculum plans, faculty qualifications, student support services, assessment methods, and more. By employing streamlined evaluation techniques, QAHE ensures that all relevant aspects of the institution are thoroughly examined, without compromising the quality of the review.

Email Communication for In-Depth Insights: QAHE communicates via email with key stakeholders, including faculty members and administrators. These communications provide valuable insights into the institution's practices, policies, and procedures. By utilizing online communication tools, QAHE efficiently engages stakeholders in meaningful discussions, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation while minimizing logistical challenges.

Photo Documentation: In order to save costs and time, physical on-site visits shall be replaced by photo documentation, QAHE offers alternatives such as online site visits or photo documentation. Institutions can provide photo documentation that showcases their infrastructure, facilities, and resources. QAHE's evaluators meticulously review these visual materials, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of the institution's physical aspects without compromising the quality of the evaluation.

Efficient Data Collection Methods: QAHE utilizes efficient data collection methods to gather essential information. This may involve online surveys, questionnaires, or other digital tools tailored to capture valuable feedback from faculty, students, and other stakeholders. These methods expedite the data collection process while maintaining the integrity of the evaluation.

Qualified Evaluators and Clear Guidelines: QAHE assigns qualified evaluators with expertise in the relevant field or area of assessment. These evaluators follow clear guidelines and criteria established by QAHE to ensure consistency and adherence to accreditation standards. By relying on experienced professionals and providing transparent guidelines, QAHE guarantees the quality and standards of the evaluation process.

Training/Educational Accreditation Standards Approved by the Accreditation Committee

• All member universities must provide students with books lists, library services, computer services and/or access to instructional materials required for the completion of the degree program.
• A member institution must have a proper and adequate system of student performance assessment.
• A member institution must develop acceptable course content for each and every course offered and for each and every degree program. This
• Content must reflect the goals and objectives of the course or the degree program, how evaluation is to be carried out and expectations for
• anticipated student performance.
• All members of the QAHE must engage in the self-evaluation of programs, the assessment of the faculty and administrative staff and the reviewing of
• The relationship between the curriculum and the goals of instruction.
• A member institution should provide assistance, support, counseling, supervision of instruction, and other services appropriate to the student’s educational goals.
• A member university must make its financial resources of public record and must maintain sufficient capital income to sustain student enrollments and degree programs.
• The institution must include a written statement of its policy on nondiscrimination including (but not necessarily limited to) race, sex, and national origin.
• Appropriate materials such as catalogues, curriculum guides and other official documents must be submitted by the new member school for evaluation.
• Accreditation is offered for a one-year period and is renewable upon further evaluation at the end of the accreditation period. In addition, member universities are monitored during the period they are accredited and QAHE may forfeit their accreditation if they do not consistently adhere to the guidelines, rules and regulations of the organization.
• The faculty of the member universities must hold diplomas in the appropriate subject area for which they have been employed to teach or counsel students.
• Life-work experience credit may be accepted by the member universities based on accurate and verifiable information submitted by the student.
• Students must be given curriculum, courses of study and other materials appropriate to the plan of their degree program.
• The faculty of the member universities must hold diplomas in the appropriate subject area for which they have been employed to teach or counsel students.
• A clearly defined and published statement of mission, formally adopted by the governing board, which demonstrates that the fundamental purposes of the institution are educational, appropriate to a degree-granting institution, and appropriate to the needs of the constituencies it seeks to serve.
• The institution must include in its published catalogue/webpage a set of admission policies that guide the admission department in admitting students.
• A catalogue and/or other comparable official webpages available to students and the public that honestly and accurately sets forth pertinent information.

Programmatic Accreditation

This accreditation type is only for accredited universities, educational institutes, vocational institutions, online courses, etc., and includes a specific program/course (Certificate, Diploma, BSc, MA, MS, MBA, LLM, DBA, etc.) that has a curriculum. If you want to get an accreditation for your programs, you must apply to Programmatic Accreditation for each program after applying for Institutional Accreditation.

Statement of Accreditation with relevant Logos

Sample Statement of Accreditation for Institutionally Accredited Institution to declare your accreditation with QAHE Institutionally Accredited Logo:
[Name of Institution] is accredited by the International Association for Quality Assurance in Pre-Tertiary & Higher Education (QAHE), a globally recognized accreditation agency that promotes the highest standards of academic excellence. Our accreditation from QAHE represents our steadfast commitment to providing a quality education that meets the required standards of excellence. We take great pride in being part of a network of accredited institutions worldwide that share our passion for upholding the highest standards of academic integrity and quality. This accreditation is a testament to our unwavering dedication to continuous improvement and ensuring that our students receive a world-class education that prepares them for success in their chosen fields.

Accreditation Committee

International Association for Quality Assurance in Pre-Tertiary & Higher Education (QAHE)

Sample Statement of Accreditation for Institutions to declare your Programmatic Accreditation with QAHE Accredited Program Logo:
[Accredited Program(s)] is programmatically accredited by the International Association for Quality Assurance in Pre-Tertiary & Higher Education (QAHE), a globally recognized accreditation agency that promotes the highest standards of academic excellence. Our accreditation from QAHE represents our steadfast commitment to providing a quality education that meets the required standards of excellence. We take great pride in being part of a network of accredited institutions worldwide that share our passion for upholding the highest standards of academic integrity and quality. This accreditation is a testament to our unwavering dedication to continuous improvement and ensuring that our students receive a world-class education that prepares them for success in their chosen fields.

Strict Compliance

Use of our Name and Logos

We expect our accredited institutions to use the above statements to avoid any confusion. Institutional accreditation evaluates the overall quality and effectiveness of an institution, including its governance, management, and resources. Programmatic accreditation, on the other hand, evaluates specific educational programs and ensures that they meet the required standards of quality and effectiveness. It is important to note that if an institution has only received institutional accreditation from QAHE, it cannot claim that its individual programs are accredited by QAHE unless the programs have been accredited separately. This is because programmatic accreditation evaluates specific programs and ensures that they meet the required standards of quality and effectiveness. While institutional accreditation provides assurance that an institution meets the required standards of quality, it does not necessarily mean that all individual programs offered by the institution meet the same standards. Therefore, to claim that a specific program is accredited by QAHE, the program must have undergone the programmatic accreditation process and received accreditation from QAHE separately. This ensures that the program meets the required standards of quality and effectiveness and provides assurance to students, employers, and other stakeholders that the program has been rigorously evaluated and meets the highest standards of academic excellence. For more information about programmatic accreditation, please visit [Programmatic Accreditation]

Accreditation Fees

The institution of education applying for accreditation to the QAHE must pay the accreditation fee once the eligibility has been confirmed by the QAHE Secretary, and before anyactual evaluation of the accreditation process starts.

Benefit of getting QAHE Accreditation

• Once you are accredited with QAHE, you will receive a QAHE Accredited Logo (JPG/PNG) which can be used on your website, official documents and other various marketing collaterals.
• The accreditation certificate and report in digital format (PDF) will be a proof of achieving QAHE accreditation. You can promote QAHE Accreditation using this certificate on different promotional platforms.
• Promotion opportunity at our website. The promotion of your institutions will be based on availability and needs of QAHE to enhance the global recognition of your institute.
• Online Listing and Verification are available at QAHE Website for all the accredited institutions.
• Announcements at QAHE Social Media Platforms at Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Hashnode, Medium, etc. (Subject to change without further notice).
• Additional NAIR/IARC national accreditation opportunity
• Free news announcement about QAHE accreditation at Frontline Digest.

Timeframe and Branches

It takes around 10-12 working days to process if there is no delay for the payment. For more information, please feel free to contact us at accreditation@qahe.org for guidance. We keep our accreditation fee low in order to serve the sector of higher education the best, but please bear in mind that each accreditation certificate is only for one institution in a single location, therefore, extra nominal fee will be charged for each branch accreditation.

Five Areas of Inspection

• Academic Quality and Integrity
• Teaching Staff Qualifications
• Delivery of Programs
• Students Services
• Website Design and Performance

On-going compliance of accrediting organization requirement is essential, otherwise the accreditation status will be disqualified. Accredited institutions can use the QAHE logo and QAHE promotional materials for the duration of their accrediting agency.

Prime Accreditation Status

What is Prime Accreditation Status? The Prime Accreditation Status represents the pinnacle of recognition in the field of education. It signifies that an institution has not only met the rigorous standards and criteria set by our accrediting body but has also excelled in key areas such as academic programs, faculty qualifications, student outcomes, research contributions, and community engagement. Institutions awarded the Prime Accreditation Status have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional educational experiences and achieving remarkable results.

Benefits of Prime Accreditation Status:

• Global Recognition: The Prime Accreditation Status sets your institution apart on a global scale, reinforcing its reputation as a premier educational establishment committed to excellence.
• Enhanced Credibility: The distinguished Prime Accreditation Status enhances your institution's credibility and distinguishes it from others, instilling confidence among stakeholders, including students, parents, faculty, and partners.
• Networking Opportunities: Join an exclusive community of exceptional institutions and gain access to networking opportunities, collaborations, and partnerships with other Prime Accreditation Status recipients.
• Increased Visibility: Enjoy heightened visibility through our online and offline channels, including our website, publications, events, and promotional materials, further amplifying your institution's reach and impact.
• Continuous Improvement Support: Benefit from personalized support and guidance from our experienced accreditation team, who will work closely with your institution to identify areas for improvement and provide valuable insights for ongoing growth and development.

Application Process:

• Documentation and Evaluation: Prepare the required supporting documentation, showcasing your institution's excellence in various areas. Our accreditation team will carefully review and evaluate your application, potentially including site visits and interviews.
• Notification of Outcome: Once the evaluation process is complete, you will be notified of the outcome of your application. If approved, you will receive an approval email outlining the next steps, including the payment details.

Invest in Excellence: To maintain the exceptional standards associated with the Prime Accreditation Status, a separate annual fee is required. This fee directly contributes to the comprehensive evaluation processes, ongoing monitoring, and continuous improvement initiatives that uphold the integrity and recognition of the Prime Accreditation Status. Detailed information regarding the fee structure and payment process will be provided upon approval of your application.
Join the Elite Ranks: The Prime Accreditation Status is a testament to your institution's unwavering dedication to excellence in education. By achieving this prestigious recognition, you position your institution among the elite ranks of educational establishments globally. Embrace the opportunity to showcase your institution's exceptional qualities and join the distinguished community of Prime Accreditation Status recipients.
Take the Next Step: If you believe your institution has what it takes to attain the esteemed Prime Accreditation Status, we invite you to express your interest and begin the application process. Contact our Accreditation Team at accreditation@qahe.org to learn more, ask questions, and embark on the journey towards recognition and excellence.

Complaint Against Accredited Institutions

While the International Association for Quality Assurance in Higher Education, like other accrediting agencies worldwide, is interested in assuring that accredited programs maintain their quality and continue to meet QAHE standards, neither QAHE nor its Accreditation Committee is a mediator for consumer complaints against institutions or programs of study. QAHE is an accrediting body, not a regulator or an appellate panel for student or faculty grievances. Our Accreditation Committee will accept and evaluate complaints against accrediting agency programs in connection with annual review of program conformity or reaccreditation processes where there are serious allegations that a program may not be in conformity with QAHE standards.

Acceptance of this prestigious accreditation is ultimately subject to the discretion of the individual institutions and organizations. Each entity has its own unique priorities, strategic goals, and admission criteria, which may factor into their decision to recognize the QAHE accreditation.