Higher Learning Commission

At its meeting on June 27, HLC’s Board of Trustees adopted final revisions to the Criteria for Accreditation and Assumed Practices. The Board also considered new proposed changes to HLC policies, adopted the dues and fees schedule for the coming year, and took action on a number of institutional cases. 

Adopted Policy and Bylaw Changes 

Revised Criteria and Assumed Practices 

The adopted changes streamline and clarify HLC expectations for institutions. The revisions will go into effect on September 1, 2025. The current versions of each policy will remain in effect until that date. 

See HLC’s overview document for policy language, implementation timeline, crosswalks between the current and revised Criteria, and definitions of new terms in the revised Criteria. Additional training and support on the revised Criteria will be available for institutions and peer reviewers starting this fall. 

Revised Criteria for Accreditation and Assumed Practices: Overview and Timeline 

HLC Bylaws: Composition of Executive Committee 

Through an electronic ballot on July 9, the Board also adopted a change to the HLC Bylaws that expands the membership of the Board’s Executive Committee to include the immediate past chair of the Board. The Executive Committee also consists of the chair, vice chair, treasurer, and the chairs of the standing Board committees. The bylaw change is effective immediately. 

Adopted Bylaw Change: Composition of Executive Committee 

Proposed Policy Changes: Comments Invited 

The Board approved the following proposed policy changes on first reading. It will consider the changes for adoption at its October 31 meeting. Before then, review the proposals and share your feedback. Submit comments by September 17, 2024, to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. 

• Eligibility Requirements 
  The proposed changes would streamline HLC’s Eligibility Requirements and align them with the revised Criteria and Assumed Practices. If adopted, the proposed changes would be effective September 1, 2025. 
   
• Sanctions and Reaffirmation of Accreditation 
  The proposed changes would standardize HLC’s policies on sanctions and Show-Cause Orders. Among other changes, the proposal would establish the general rule that an institution would have its accreditation reaffirmed when it is removed from Probation or a Show-Cause Order and would establish standard time periods for Notice and Probation. It would also clarify the standard for issuing a Show-Cause Order. 

Dues and Fees Schedule 

The Dues and Fees Schedule for fiscal year 2024–25 is now available. 

Accreditation Actions 

See June 2024 Actions for the Board’s actions on institutional cases. 

Next Board Meeting 

The Board’s next meeting will take place October 31 – November 1, 2024.