Accreditation isn’t just a word tossed around in higher education—it’s the key to making your college degree count. Whether you plan to seek federal loans, want trust from employers, or intend to transfer or seek advanced degrees, accreditation matters. For those exploring American universities, especially online or career schools, knowing which institutions are truly accredited is essential. One name that has dominated discussions in recent years is the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS). Let’s break down ACICS’s real status, review what it means for students, and offer actionable tips for navigating the new landscape.
Navigating the ACICS Accreditation Process in the United States
ACICS once played a significant role in accrediting career colleges and for-profit schools. Their process involved several major steps:
- Pre-Application Phase: Colleges submitted documents and requested evaluation.
- Self-Evaluation: Institutions assessed whether they met ACICS standards.
- Peer Review: External experts assessed campus quality, often by visiting.
- Commission Decision: ACICS leadership voted to accredit or deny schools.
While this approach set a framework for oversight, recent developments mean this path can no longer grant a school a recognized “stamp of approval” in the U.S. ACICS is no longer a federally recognized accreditor, and its reviews no longer carry the power they once did.
List of Top Institutions with Historical or Transitional ACICS Ties
Many colleges built their programs on ACICS accreditation. Some have since moved to new accreditors or changed operations. A few of these institutions include:
| Institution Name | City | State | Focus Area | Current Accreditor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abraham Lincoln University | Glendale | CA | Law & Legal Studies | DEAC |
| Acacia University | Tempe | AZ | Education, Leadership | DEAC |
| American National University | Salem | VA | Health & Business | DEAC |
| Columbia Southern University | Orange Beach | AL | Online Business | DEAC |
| Atlantic University | Virginia Beach | VA | Psychology | DEAC |
| Anaheim University | Anaheim | CA | Business, ESL | DEAC |
| Westcliff University | Irvine | CA | Business, Education | WASC |
| University of the Potomac | Washington DC | DC | Business, IT, Health | Middle States |
| North American University | Stafford | TX | Engineering | TRACS |
| Stratford University | Alexandria | VA | Culinary, Nursing | Formerly ACICS |
Important: Always confirm a school’s current accreditation status with official government sources or directly on the accreditor’s website, as these can change frequently.
Why Accreditation Matters: Understanding the Value of ACICS Recognition
Accreditation is not just about a logo on a website. Here’s why it truly matters:
- Federal Aid Access: Only students attending accredited schools are eligible for government student support
- Academic Quality: Accreditation shows a school meets quality standards for education
- Credit Transfers: Schools without recognized accreditation often find their courses won’t transfer
- Employer Trust: Many employers require a degree from an accredited institution
ACICS has no official standing with the Department of Education. Colleges once accredited must secure new recognition to avoid problems for students.
Key Differences Between ACICS and Other Accrediting Bodies
| Feature | ACICS | Regional Accreditation | Programmatic Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scope | Career Schools | Public/Private Colleges | Focused Programs |
| Recognition | Derecognized | Fully Recognized | Fully Recognized |
| Transferability | Often Limited | Widely Accepted | Varies by Field |
| Employer Value | Less Preferred | Highly Valued | Depends on Job Requirements |
Regional accreditation is most trusted by universities and employers. Programmatic accrediting bodies review specific fields like health care or engineering.
What Students Should Know About ACICS Accreditation
| Topic | Key Point |
|---|---|
| Federal Standing | No longer recognized |
| School Actions | Most are seeking new accreditation |
| Student Checklist | Always check the school’s accreditor |
| Credit Transfers | Credits may be rejected by other colleges |
| Career Impact | Employers may not accept some degrees |
How Accreditation Impacts Academic and Career Opportunities
| Category | Accredited College | Non-Accredited College |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Aid | Eligible | Not Eligible |
| Degree Respect | Widely Recognized | Often Ignored |
| Class Transfers | Usually Accepted | Often Denied |
| Visa Eligibility | Valid for Visa Processes | Might Be Denied |
Without federally recognized accreditation, students lose many opportunities, including access to student aid and work programs.
Understanding the Role of ACICS in Higher Education
ACICS worked mainly with career schools. These included trade, online, and business-focused programs. Their role was to check school quality in areas like student results, staff credentials, and school finances. After their status was removed, schools needed to meet other standards or risk losing both students and support.
The ACICS Accreditation Timeline: Rise and Derecognition
- The U.S. government began showing concerns over ACICS practices
- Legal challenges gave ACICS more time
- The review process returned later with calls for end of recognition
- Derecognition became official, and all ACICS schools had to act quickly
Guidance for Institutions Formerly Accredited by ACICS
Schools impacted should consider:
- Finding a recognized accreditor immediately
- Keeping the public informed at all times
- Maintaining program quality through the change
- Setting up teach-out programs if closure becomes necessary
Accreditation Standards and Evaluation Criteria
ACICS used to check for:
- A clear school mission and learning goals
- Certified teachers and current subject content
- Graduation and student retention rates
- Honest leadership and strong finances
These goals still exist under other accreditation bodies.
Impact of ACICS Accreditation on Transfer Credits and Admissions
If your school only had ACICS approval and no new accreditor:
- Most regional colleges won’t accept your credits
- Pathways to new schools may be blocked
- You may be asked to provide extra materials like course plans
Navigating Federal Financial Aid Post-Derecognition
Without recognized accreditation:
- Pell Grants and federal student loans are no longer available
- Military and veteran education benefits cannot be used
- State scholarships may also be revoked
Unless the school finds new accreditation or gets short-term protection, students face cuts in support.
Student Support Services at ACICS-Affiliated Schools
Many schools are trying to support students during changes. Services may include:
- Help with financial planning and academic questions
- Career advising and job search help
- Support for international students on visas
- Information about credit transfers and college planning
How to Check If a School Is Still ACICS-Accredited
Follow these steps:
- Visit the U.S. Department of Education’s database
- Type your college’s name
- Check current accreditation
- Note any recent updates
- Contact the school’s registrar office for answers
What to Do If Your School Loses ACICS Accreditation
Take early action to protect your education:
- Request your current school transcripts
- Ask about finish plans or transfer options
- Look for new schools with stronger accreditation
- If on a visa, check updates from immigration services
FAQs About ACICS and Institutional Accreditation
- Is ACICS still accepted?
No. It no longer meets U.S. education standards - Can you graduate from an ACICS-accredited college?
Only if your school has a new recognized accreditor now - Does my degree still matter?
It depends. Some jobs will accept it, others might not - Can I use my credits at new colleges?
That depends on the other school’s credit rules
Recent Updates on ACICS Status
Many ACICS schools have now joined other associations. Some are accredited by DEAC, WASC, or Middle States. A few colleges closed or are still in transition.
Case Studies: ACICS School Transitions
- Westcliff University found a new accreditor and remained open
- Stratford University closed but provided help to its students
- California Miramar University is seeking an accrediting agency
What Employers Think of ACICS Degrees
Some fields care deeply about accreditation status. Jobs in government, public health, or engineering often require regional or program-specific approval. If accreditation is missing, some employers may reject the degree or request extra documents.
How Accreditation Affects International Students
- International students must study at accredited colleges for legal status
- Without this, visa applications can be denied
- Those already in school could face deportation risks
Students from abroad should work with campus international offices. They must also check government updates often.
Your Rights as a Student During Accreditation Changes
If your school’s status changes, you have important rights:
- You must be notified by the school
- You can be offered other school options to finish
- If your school closes, you may be forgiven for loans
Stay informed and keep documents safe. Your best protection is checking accreditors before choosing a school. As the education system evolves, doing your research will help you reach your goals confidently.