Does accreditation have an expiry date?

Short answer

Accreditation is time‑limited. Accreditation status is granted for a specific period and must be renewed according to the accreditor's rules and any applicable law. Institutions should monitor expiry dates closely and follow their accreditor's renewal process.

ITAA practice — licence length and renewal

ITAA issues an institutional accreditation licence that is valid for one year and is renewed annually through payment of the annual accreditation fee and continuation of compliance with ITAA standards. Institutions must maintain the annual licence fee and complete any required monitoring, reporting or evidence requests to keep accreditation active.

ITAA also publishes its fee and process information, which confirms the annual renewal model and the requirement to remain compliant between reviews.

Why accreditations expire

Time‑limited accreditation lets accreditors confirm ongoing compliance with standards, require institutions to provide updated evidence, and ensure quality assurance systems remain effective. Expiry or non‑renewal may follow failure to meet standards, non‑payment of fees, or failure to supply required information.

Institutional responsibilities when accreditation nears expiry

• Track the accreditation expiry date and start renewal steps well before expiry.
• Submit required reports, evidence and fee payments on schedule.
• Keep public statements and marketing accurate; do not imply governmental recognition if none exists.
• Ensure continued compliance with all national, state/provincial and local laws relating to operating and awarding qualifications.

Consequences of expiry or withdrawal

If accreditation lapses or is withdrawn, an institution may lose permission to display the accreditor's seal or appear on the accredited register. Institutions remain responsible for the lawful issue of certificates, diplomas and degrees and for informing students and stakeholders about status changes.