Which sequence best describes the typical AAHEP accreditation process from initial contact to decision?

• A. Submission of a self-study report, on-site evaluation, accreditation decision, and immediate expansion of program.
• B. On-site evaluation by a review team, eligibility/pre-application, accreditation decision, ongoing surveillance.
• C. Eligibility/pre-application, submission of a self-study report, on-site evaluation by a review team, accreditation decision, ongoing reporting and surveillance.
• D. Initial inquiry, self-study, online survey, accreditation decision.

Answer: (C)

Accreditation follows a staged lifecycle: programs first establish eligibility, then present a comprehensive self-study, undergo an on-site evaluation, receive an accreditation decision, and finally enter ongoing reporting and surveillance to maintain status. Starting with eligibility or pre-application ensures the program meets basic requirements before expending resources on a full self-study. The self-study collects detailed evidence that the program meets each standard, which the review team then validates during an on-site visit that examines actual operations, facilities, and resources. After the review, a formal accreditation decision is made based on the findings. Once accredited, ongoing reporting and surveillance keep the program compliant over time, with regular updates and potential follow-up activities as needed. The other sequences miss essential elements or place steps out of logical order—for example, evaluating before confirming eligibility, skipping the on-site verification, or omitting ongoing oversight—so they don’t reflect how the process typically unfolds.