Standards & Guide

The AAQEP system is based on four standards that establish clear expectations for quality and frame opportunities for inquiry and improvement.

As the figure on this page illustrates, Standards 1 and 2 focus on completer performance, while Standards 3 and 4 address program practice.

The figure also shows another important alignment: Standards 1 and 3 represent "foundational expectations" on which the field broadly agrees and for which widely accepted measures exist; Standards 2 and 4 represent "contextual opportunities" that are important aims but defy easy definition or common assessment.

In the 2025 expectations framework, each standard includes seven aspects. Each aspect must be directly addressed with evidence for every program being reviewed in order for the overall standard to be met. For details about the standards, aspects, and evidence expectations, see the links at left as well as the 2025 Expectations Framework and the full Guide to AAQEP Accreditation.

Standards Transition Note: The 2018 AAQEP expectations framework may still be used for self-study for site visits through fall 2026. Learn More