Background
The International Accrediting Commission for Digital Education (IACDE) is committed to transparency, fairness, and due process in all accreditation determinations.
This policy establishes a formal mechanism for institutions to appeal Commission decisions related to candidacy, accreditation, suspension, or withdrawal.
The purpose of this policy is to:
• Ensure institutions have a fair opportunity to contest decisions.
• Provide a structured, impartial, and transparent appeal process.
• Reinforce confidence in the integrity of IACDE’s review system.

Scope
Appeals may be filed for the following Commission decisions:
• Denial of Candidacy or Initial Accreditation.
• Denial of Reaffirmation or Renewal.
• Placement on Probation or Monitoring.
• Suspension or Withdrawal of Accreditation.

Grounds for Appeal
An appeal may be filed only on the basis of:
• A significant procedural error or omission in the accreditation process.
• Evidence of bias, conflict of interest, or unfair treatment.
• The availability of new, material evidence that was not considered during review.

Appeal Submission
• Appeals must be submitted in writing within 30 calendar days of the institution’s receipt of the decision.
• The appeal must clearly state the grounds, provide supporting documentation, and be signed by the institution’s Chief Executive Officer or authorized representative.
• Appeals must be sent to appeals@iacde.org with the subject line “Formal Appeal Submission.”

Review and Decision Process
• The appeal will be reviewed by an Independent Appeals Panel not involved in the original decision.
• The panel will consider written evidence, institutional statements, and relevant Commission materials.
• The panel may uphold, modify, or reverse the original decision.
• The final decision will be communicated in writing within 60–90 days of receipt.

Finality of Decision
All appeal decisions by the Independent Appeals Panel are final and binding.
No further internal appeal is available after the panel renders its decision.

Recordkeeping and Confidentiality
All appeal records are securely retained as part of IACDE’s confidential institutional files.

International Accrediting Commission for Digital Education (IACDE)
8206 Louisiana Blvd NE Ste B #10025, Albuquerque, NM 87113, USA
info@iacde.org | www.iacde.org
“Your Mission Deserves Accreditation Without Barriers.”

Policy Adoption Record
Adopted by the International Accrediting Commission for Digital Education: 06/2025
Revised: 10/2025
Editorial Revision: 10/2025