Loss of accreditation occurs very infrequently because one of the fundamental purposes of the Commission is to foster educational excellence. The Commission, therefore, offers an array of services to institutions in need of support in modifying practices that are interfering with institutional mission. This support is intended to assist institutions in avoiding loss of accreditation. However, if in the judgment of the Commission, an institution has not satisfactorily explained or corrected matters of which it has been given notice, its accreditation may be terminated. Termination of accreditation is subject to a request for review and appeal, with the accredited status of the institution continuing pending completion of the appeal process.
Accreditation provides both tangible and intangible benefits.
Accreditation certifies to the public that an institution meets or exceeds specific standards of quality. Accreditation facilitates institutional eligibility to participate in Title IV student financial aid programs. Accreditation provides for a process of periodic self and peer review. These activities are a positive force in improving institutional effectiveness. Many institutions rely on regional accreditation in their decisions to recognize transfer credit.