© 2026 International Accrediting Commission for Digital Education (IACDE)

Upholding Standards. Empowering Institutions. Elevating Online Education.

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Quality Assurance Pillars of IACDE

At IACDE, we are committed to transparent, rigorous, and collaborative accreditation practices. These pillars guide our framework for institutional recognition, ethical review, and peer-engaged improvement.

Standards of Accreditation

At IACDE, we believe accreditation should be more than a checklist—it should be a catalyst for excellence. Our Standards for Accreditation are designed to uphold academic rigor, digital integrity, student outcomes, and institutional effectiveness in fully online, hybrid, and technology-enhanced learning environments.

Explore Our Accreditation Standards

Policies & Procedures

Our policies, guidelines, and operational procedures outline the mutual responsibilities of IACDE and accredited institutions. These documents ensure transparency, consistency, and accountability in the accreditation process and institutional compliance.

Review Accreditation Policies

Become a Peer Evaluator

IACDE relies on a network of experienced professionals to conduct peer reviews, site visits (virtual and hybrid), and self-study evaluations. Learn about the role, benefits, and application process for becoming a peer evaluator in our international network.

Apply to Become a Peer Evaluator

Who We Accredit

Accrediting Diverse Institutions Advancing Digital Learning Excellence

IACDE accredits a broad range of institutions committed to high-quality digital learning, including online universities and colleges, hybrid and virtual K–12 schools, professional training academies, faith-based education providers, coaching certification programs, and edtech platforms offering competency-based or microcredential learning. We also serve international and cross-border institutions seeking recognition for virtual and technology-enhanced instruction.

Ready to Elevate Your Institution?
Join the growing network of accredited digital education providers.

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Global Updates from IACDE

Stay up-to-date with the latest news, insights, and trends in online education through our blog posts.

December 31, 2025IACDE Press

Why Students Prefer Digital Credentials Over Paper Certificates: Digital Accreditation and the New Learner Expectation

The rapid shift toward digital accreditation reflects a deeper transformation in how students understand learning…
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December 30, 2025IACDE Press

Are Digital Credentials Replacing Degrees? trends for 2025-2030

Digital accreditation has moved from the margins of higher education policy to the center of…
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Digital Question Mark
December 29, 2025Dr. Roxanne Kemp, PhD President

Is Digital Accreditation Legitimate? What Institutions Need to Know in 2026

Digital accreditation is increasingly central to how higher education systems evaluate the quality, integrity, and…
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December 29, 2025IACDE Press

Best Practices for Secure, Verifiable Digital Badges: Building Trust, Mobility, and Global Recognition

Why Digital Credentials Are Reshaping Education and Work Across the world, institutions and employers are…
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December 23, 2025IACDE Press

How to Build a Digital Credentialing System for Your Institution

Why Digital Credentialing Can No Longer Wait Institutions around the world are facing a growing…
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December 19, 2025IACDE Press

The Difference Between Digital Certificates and Digital Accreditation

Why understanding both is essential for institutions, employers, and learners in a credential-driven world Credentials…
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December 17, 2025IACDE Press

How Employers Verify Digital Credentials in Real Time

Why Instant Trust Is Reshaping Hiring and Why Institutions Must Act Now The Shift From…
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December 16, 2025IACDE Press

Digital Wallets: The Future of Credential Storage and Verification

A Question of Trust in a Digital Age How do institutions prove learning outcomes when…
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100%

digital Accreditation experience

3

Accreditation Tiers for Digital Institutions

75+

highly qualified Global advisors in network

200+

Years of Combined Experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about IACDE’s authority, process, eligibility, and recognition.

What is IACDE’s legal status and authority?
The International Accrediting Commission for Digital Education (IACDE) is a legally registered private accreditor in the United States, operating under New Mexico law. Its authority derives from its formation as a private quality assurance body dedicated to advancing online and hybrid education worldwide. See our Authority & Legal Basis.
Is IACDE recognized by a government or CHEA/USDE?
IACDE is an independent accreditor and not listed by CHEA or the U.S. Department of Education. However, our standards align with CHEA International Quality Group (CIQG) principles, INQAAHE Good Practice Guidelines, and ISO 21001 educational organization management standards.
What types of accreditation does IACDE offer?
We offer both Institutional and Programmatic accreditation for online, blended, and faith-based education providers. Learn more in our Accreditation Standards Overview.
Who is eligible to apply?
Institutions that deliver online, hybrid, or distance education with sound governance, transparent policies, and ethical standards may apply for candidacy. Visit Get Accredited to begin.
What is the accreditation process?
The process includes: (1) Application, (2) Candidacy Review, (3) Self-Study, (4) Peer Review, and (5) Commission Decision. Each phase is guided by mentorship and clear quality benchmarks outlined in our Accreditation Handbook.
How long does accreditation take?
Most institutions complete candidacy and self-study within 3–9 months, depending on readiness and responsiveness. IACDE’s process is designed for flexibility while maintaining quality.
What are the fees?
Fees are transparent and published at all times. Application: $600–$650; Candidate Recognition: $650; Full Accreditation: $2,500–$4,000 based on size. See our Fee Schedule for details.
What happens after we are accredited?
Accredited institutions maintain good standing through annual maintenance reviews and continuous quality reporting. Accreditation is valid for a 5-year period, subject to ongoing compliance.
How does IACDE protect confidentiality and data?
All submissions are protected under our Data Protection & Privacy Policy. Reviewers and staff adhere to strict non-disclosure and conflict-of-interest agreements.
Do you publish accreditation decisions?
Yes. Institutions granted Candidacy or Full Accreditation appear in our public Directory of Recognized Institutions.

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