How to Check Whether a U.S. College Is Accredited
A checklist for researching an institution before enrolling.
Accreditation is one factor students can use when evaluating a college or program. Institutional and programmatic accreditation serve different purposes.
What readers should understand
Prospective students can search the U.S. Department of Education database and confirm details with the accrediting organization. They should also check whether accreditation applies to their intended program.
Licensure-based careers may have additional approval requirements. A school being accredited does not automatically mean every program satisfies requirements in every state.
Important considerations
Check graduation outcomes, costs, transfer-credit rules and student support alongside accreditation rather than relying on a single label.
Questions to ask
Before making decisions, check whether the information applies to your institution, location and individual circumstances. Rules and services may change, and the official organization responsible for a program is the best place to confirm current details.
Source and further reading
Official or educational reference. This explainer is independently written and is not endorsed by the linked organization.