Accrediting agencies assure that institutions meet quality standards in educational practices and processes.
ACICS assures educational quality and depends upon the state and the U.S. Department of Education to fulfill their oversight responsibilities. Together, the triad ensures that institutions are accountable to rigorous educational, administrative, and fiscal standards.
More information on the accreditation process can be found by going to the Accreditation section of the Web site of either the U.S. Department of Education (www.ed.gov) or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (www.chea.org). 

Recognition

Similar to the institutions they accredit, accrediting agencies which are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education must undergo a rigid, external review of processes and practices. The agency is recognized by the Department as “reliable authorities concerning the quality of postsecondary education or training offered by educational institutions.” The U.S. Secretary of Education has recognized ACICS since 1956.

The Triad
The United States Department of Education (Department), the state, and the accrediting agency play important and distinct roles in assuring quality in higher education.  The oversight process includes a system of checks and balances. Together, these three entities known as “the triad” are responsible for oversight of higher education institutions.

U.S. Department of Education
The Department determines if institutions are eligible to participate in federal assistance programs and enforces regulations governing the adherence to federal student financial aid programs.

Federal Eligibility for Student Financial Aid

The U.S. Department of Education determines institutional eligibility to participate in federal financial aid offered to students. The Department relies on the accreditation of the institutions to determine institutional eligibility.

States
State agencies grant legal authority to institutions to operate. They also oversee consumer protection.