The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) is an independent corporation and one of two commission members of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA), which is one of six regional institutional accreditors in the United States. The Higher Learning Commission accredits degree-granting post-secondary educational institutions in the North Central region.

Recent News

Website Redesign: Phase 1

Welcome to the Commission website’s new look! The new design, updated navigation, and improved search function represent phase 1 of a yearlong project to improve the website. Phase 2 will occur in stages over the coming months as content and cross-referencing functions are updated and enhanced. We welcome your comments.

Learn about the Commission’s New Pathways for Reaffirmation of Accreditation

The Commission currently offers two programs for maintaining accreditation: the Program to Evaluate and Advance Quality (PEAQ) and the Academic Quality Improvement Program (AQIP). In September 2012, the Commission begins a three-year transition during which PEAQ will be replaced by two new Pathways: The Standard Pathway and The Open Pathway. AQIP continues as another pathway.

Report of June Board Actions

Adopted Policy Changes

The Board of Trustees adopted the following revised policies. They are effective immediately unless otherwise noted.

Policy changes related to federal compliance

Policy changes related to pathways for reaffirmation of accreditation. Additional information is available on the Pathways for Reaffirmation of Accreditation

Proposed Policy Changes

The Board approved on first reading the following proposed revised policies and bylaw changes. The Commission invites comments on these proposed policies and bylaw changes before the Board takes final action in November 2012. Comments can be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Comments must be received by September 14, 2012.

Policy changes related to approval of a change in length of term affecting allocation of credit

Policy changes related to Commission staff

Policy changes related to withdrawal of application for candidacy or for initial accreditation

Policy changes related to peer reviewers. Additional information is available in the Statement on Peer Reviewers Serving as Independent Consultants or on Mock Teams to Institutions that are Accredited by or Seeking Accreditation with the Commission

The Board approved on first reading the following proposed revision to the bylaws: Proposed bylaws amendments related to terms of office

Statement on the Accreditation of High Schools

The Board adopted a Statement on the Accreditation of High Schools.

2013 Dues and Fees Schedule Adopted

The Board adopted the preliminary budget for fiscal year 2013 and the Dues and Fees Schedule for fiscal year 2013. Dues invoices were mailed July 2. The only change to the 2012-13 dues is a $100 increase to the base dues. This follows two years in which the Commission had not changed the rate or the formula for calculating dues.