What documents must an institution submit?

Summary — what to prepare

When submitting an initial application to the International Theological Accreditation Association (ITAA) institutions should supply clear, accurate and verifiable documentary evidence that demonstrates legal operation, governance, academic provision, student support and financial stability. ITAA evaluates an institution’s maturity and systems; applications that include complete, well‑organised documentation proceed more quickly.

Core documents (typical checklist)

• Application form — completed ITAA application package and required declarations.
• Legal status — corporate registration, licence to operate, charity/ministry registration or equivalent proof of legal existence in the institution’s jurisdiction.
• Governance documents — constitution, board terms of reference, minutes showing oversight, senior leadership CVs and organisational chart.
• Academic catalogue and programme specifications — current prospectus/catalogue, programme learning outcomes, course outlines and assessment policies.
• Quality assurance documentation — QA manual, assessment moderation procedures, student complaints and appeals policies.
• Student‑facing policies — admissions policy, student handbook, academic regulations, recognition of prior learning (where applicable).
• Staff and faculty evidence — CVs, contracts, qualifications and teaching load statements for academic staff.
• Financial records — recent audited accounts or financial statements, budget forecast and evidence of financial control.
• Learner records and sample assessment — anonymised transcripts, sample marked assessments and examples of moderation.
• Physical and/or online delivery evidence — photos of campus facilities or screenshots and platform documentation for distance/online delivery.

How documents are submitted and formatted

ITAA prefers consolidated, clearly labelled PDF files with an index. Where possible supply a short covering statement that maps each document to ITAA standards and explains any local regulatory variations. Maintain accurate public records: institutions remain responsible for the truthfulness and currency of every public claim.

If you cannot provide a document

If a required item is not available at application, provide an explanatory note, an institutional timetable for producing the document and any interim evidence (for example, a draft policy signed by the principal). ITAA will consider staged or conditional evidence where appropriate, but final accreditation requires full compliance with ITAA standards and any local legal requirements.

Important compliance reminders

• Do not claim governmental recognition where none exists; ITAA provides independent theological accreditation only. LEGAL-001, LEGAL-002 and LEGAL-003 apply in all cases.
• Institutions remain responsible for local licences and for ensuring degree‑awarding powers where required by law (do not assume ITAA accreditation confers statutory powers).