How long does an application take?

Summary timeline

Most ITAA accreditation applications progress through three principal phases: an initial administrative check, a documentary evidence review, and a standards assessment leading to a decision. From submission of a complete application to final accreditation approval, institutions commonly expect between 3 and 9 months. Faster outcomes (around 324 months) are possible where documentation is complete and standards are already met; longer timelines (624+ months) occur when evidence is incomplete or when the institution requires a staged improvement plan.

Key factors that affect timing

• Completeness of the application: missing policies, unclear governance documents or absent programme documentation extend review time.
• Quality-assurance maturity: institutions with established QA systems and centralised documentation typically complete review faster.
• Scope of accreditation: institutional accreditation or multi-campus reviews require additional checks and may extend timelines.
• External checks and verifications: identity, legal registration and third-party confirmations can add time depending on jurisdictional response times.
• Requested adjustments: if ITAA issues conditions or a staged improvement plan, the period for the institution to return evidence lengthens the process.

How to speed your application

1. Use the ITAA application checklist and submit all requested policies and records at first submission.
2. Provide clear governance, registration and programme documents and nominate a single point of contact for queries.
3. Where multiple campuses exist, explain the governance and shared QA arrangements to allow a combined review.
4. Respond promptly to requests for clarification or further evidence.

Decision and ongoing requirements

Decisions follow the assessment of documentary evidence and any required institutional response. Where accreditation is granted subject to conditions, the institution must meet those conditions within stated timelines. Once accredited, an annual licence fee applies and institutions must continue to meet ITAA standards and notify ITAA of significant changes.