Accreditation plays a key role in ensuring colleges and universities deliver quality education. In the central United States, the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) is one of the most respected accrediting bodies overseeing this responsibility. HLC evaluates postsecondary institutions across 19 states, ensuring they meet rigorous standards in teaching, student support, governance, and accountability.
Unlike accreditors that focus only on specific programs, HLC assesses the entire institution. It examines whether a college operates with integrity, fulfills its mission, supports student learning, and engages in ongoing improvement. Accreditation by HLC signals that an institution is committed to quality and is accountable to both students and the public.
To remain relevant and effective, HLC regularly updates its criteria. The most recent revisions, set to take effect in September 2025, emphasize student success, equity, and institutional transparency. These changes reflect HLC’s continued focus on fostering academic quality while addressing the evolving expectations of higher education stakeholders.
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) has introduced a suite of updated resources aimed at assisting colleges and universities in aligning with the revised Criteria for Accreditation, effective September 1, 2025. These tools are designed to support institutions in understanding and implementing the new standards, ensuring a smooth transition and continued compliance.
HLC's New Tools Help Colleges Get Ready for 2025 Accreditation Changes
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) has rolled out a set of helpful new tools to support colleges and universities as they prepare for important changes coming in 2025.
Starting September 1, 2025, HLC’s revised Criteria for Accreditation will go into effect. To help schools adjust, HLC has released updated documents, webinars, planning tools, and more. These resources make it easier for schools to stay on track and keep providing high-quality education.
What’s New?
- Updated Accreditation Criteria: The new criteria offer clearer goals for academic quality, ethics, and student support.
- Easy-to-Follow Guides: HLC now provides documents that explain what each part of the new criteria means.
- Online Training Events: Schools can attend webinars and workshops to ask questions and learn best practices.
- Answers to Common Questions: The new FAQ section helps schools understand how the changes affect them.
- Planning Tools: HLC offers worksheets and templates to help institutions plan ahead.
These changes help make sure that schools are ready for future reviews and that students continue getting the support they need. Colleges are encouraged to start reviewing the resources early.
Implementation Timeline
Institutions are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new resources and begin integrating the revised criteria into their operational and academic frameworks ahead of the September 1, 2025, effective date. Early adoption and proactive engagement with the materials will aid in ensuring compliance and maintaining accreditation status.
Conclusion
The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) has rolled out vital resources to help institutions navigate the upcoming changes to the Criteria for Accreditation set to take effect in September 2025. These updates include revised criteria, guidance documents, training events, and practical tools that will assist colleges and universities in ensuring compliance and maintaining academic excellence. By taking proactive steps to review and integrate these resources, institutions can streamline their accreditation process, enhance student outcomes, and uphold their commitment to continuous improvement. Schools are encouraged to engage with these materials early to ensure a smooth transition and readiness for future evaluations.
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