What happens during the interview?

Purpose of the interview

The interview is an evidence-focused discussion used by ITAA reviewers to verify information in the institution's application and supporting documentation, to test governance and academic systems in practice, and to assess readiness against ITAA standards. It is not a legal or governmental inspection; it is part of ITAA's independent theological accreditation process and contributes to a recommendation about accreditation status.

Who attends and when

Participants usually include the institution's senior leadership (principal, academic dean, registrar or QA lead), selected faculty, and often a student representative. Review panels are composed of ITAA-appointed reviewers and may be conducted on-site or remotely depending on the review type.

Typical format and topics

Interviews are structured but conversational. They typically cover:

• institutional governance, leadership and accountability
• academic oversight, curriculum design and assessment
• student admissions, progression and support
• financial stability and resource provision
• quality assurance policies and evidence of implementation

Reviewers may ask for clarifying documents, examples of student work, policies, minutes, and evidence of implementation during or after the interview.

Evidence and verification

The interview complements document review. ITAA reviewers compare spoken responses with submitted evidence (policies, minutes, samples of assessment, staff CVs, student records where permitted) to check consistency and veracity. Institutions should ensure records are accurate and available.

Outcomes and next steps

Following the interview the review team will:

1. note findings and any areas requiring clarification or corrective action;
2. recommend accreditation, conditional accreditation with actions, or further review;
3. provide a written report summarising strengths, concerns and required actions (if any).

Decisions are taken in accordance with ITAA processes and published timelines; institutions remain responsible for following up on any required actions.

How to prepare

Recommended preparation includes:

• reviewing the institution's submitted documentation and the relevant ITAA standards;
• ensuring key personnel know their responsibilities and have recent evidence ready (minutes, assessment samples, QA reports);
• preparing concise, factual answers and pointing to documentary evidence rather than speculative statements; and
• designating one liaison to coordinate requests from reviewers during and after the interview.