Initial Accreditation Pathway
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Learn More in a Free Webinar Introduction to the AAQEP Initial Accreditation Pathway |
Providers in most states have a choice of two pathways when entering the AAQEP accreditation system. Using the same standards, they complete their first self-study as either:
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A Quality Assurance Report (QAR) in application for 7-year accreditation status (this same process applies for reaccreditation every 7 years), or
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An Initial Accreditation Report (IAR) in application for the nonrenewable 5-year initial accreditation status before moving into the 7-year cycle.
Who should choose the initial accreditation pathway?
This pathway can be a useful on-ramp for two main categories of providers: those seeking an expedited or scaffolded transition from another accreditor, and those with new or newly revised programs. (Note: States vary in their recognition of initial accreditation status. Please check with your state authorizer for details.)
What does the initial accreditation pathway offer these providers?
The expectations and review processes for 5-year and 7-year accreditation are mostly the same, except the initial pathway entails:
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A shorter self-study report – The IAR addresses Standards 1 and 2 by detailing the set of measures and rationales for their use. Standards 3 and 4 are addressed with documentation, plans, and tentative timelines where practices are not yet fully developed. This approach allows even newly launched programs without any completers to participate and begin aligning their assessment systems with the AAQEP framework. It also means providers can complete the initial self-study and receive an accreditation decision more quickly, easing their transition expenses and timelines. See the IAR resource page for details.
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A low-cost, virtual site visit – The one-time site visit fee for initial accreditation reviews is just $3,500 (for visits through spring 2026), and providers incur no travel expenses for reviewers, as all components of the review are conducted virtually. See the Site Visit Essentials webpage for details.
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A follow-up discussion with commissioners – At the conclusion of the virtual decision meeting, the provider representatives are invited to stay for an informal discussion with commissioners and a representative of the review team. This portion of the meeting gives providers the opportunity to ask questions and receive feedback as they consider next steps for their program. (Note: This exchange is intended to be formative, and providers need not enact any suggestions or ideas presented during this discussion.)
​Questions? Contact Chief Operations Officer Linda McKee