Numerous ad hoc institutional committees are established to conduct the self-study review. Institutional structures for review and improvement are permanent and ongoing. No special groups are formed for reaccredidation. Institutional activities during the self-study must be invented and accomplished by the institution without outside guidance. A lengthy Self-Study Report, usually organized around the Criteria for Accreditation, describes institutional resources and operations.
Studies analyze institutional processes and results to find ways to improve both.
Cumulative evidence of systematic improvement forms basis for accreditation. Reports are concise and focused. The visiting team is composed of a diverse group of generalists, none of whom has previous knowledge of or involvement with the institution. The team spends 3 days on campus to review any institution. Visits are conducted by consultants with expertise in particular areas of institutional concern.