Why Accreditation Matters
Accreditation serves as a seal of quality for educational institutions, assuring students, parents, and employers that a school meets specific standards of excellence. Accredited institutions, like Excel High School, adhere to rigorous guidelines for academic quality, support services, and operational integrity. Earning a diploma from an accredited school not only prepares students for future academic and career opportunities but also assures that their education is recognized and respected.
The Dangers of Non-Accredited and Fake Accreditation Schools
Not all online schools are created equal. Some institutions lack proper accreditation or, worse, use fake accreditation agencies to appear credible. These schools may promise a “fast track” to a diploma or degree, but their programs are often substandard and not recognized by employers, colleges, or licensing boards. Diplomas from non-accredited schools can leave students with wasted time and resources, and graduates often face disappointment when their credentials are rejected.
Accrediting agencies like Cognia and MSA CESS undergo stringent reviews themselves and are trusted throughout the U.S. and beyond. In contrast, fake accreditation agencies have no educational authority and exist solely to provide a false sense of legitimacy to unaccredited programs. Students can avoid these pitfalls by checking if a school’s accrediting agency is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Regional vs. National Accreditation
Understanding the difference between regional and national accreditation is essential when evaluating an educational institution:
Regional Accreditation
- Scope: Regional accreditation, generally the gold standard, applies to public and private schools, colleges, and universities within specific geographic areas in the U.S. Recognized agencies like Cognia and MSA CESS grant this accreditation, ensuring that educational standards are consistently met.
- Recognition: Credits and diplomas from regionally accredited schools, like Excel High School, are widely accepted across the nation. This type of accreditation is highly valued by colleges and employers and often eases the transfer of credits between institutions.
- Reputation: Regional accreditation is widely recognized as the most rigorous and reputable form of accreditation due to the comprehensive standards and regular evaluations involved.
National Accreditation
- Scope: National accreditation typically applies to career-focused or trade schools. While legitimate, national accreditation is less common for traditional academic institutions and may not carry the same weight as regional accreditation.
- Recognition: Credits from nationally accredited institutions may not transfer as easily to regionally accredited schools, limiting options for students seeking further education.
- Reputation: Nationally accredited institutions meet important standards but may emphasize career skills over the academic depth found in regionally accredited programs.
What Goes into Getting Accredited?
The accreditation process is thorough and requires schools to undergo a rigorous, multi-step evaluation:
- Self-Study: Schools conduct an in-depth internal review, examining curriculum quality, student support services, instructional methods, and institutional goals. This process involves contributions from educators, administrators, and sometimes students.
- Evaluation by the Accrediting Body: After the self-study, an accrediting team reviews the institution, often through on-site visits. They assess educational practices, support services, and institutional operations to ensure compliance with accreditation standards.
- Ongoing Improvement: Accreditation is an ongoing commitment. Schools must submit reports, show progress on identified goals, and periodically renew their accreditation status by meeting updated standards and recommendations.
Excel High School’s Commitment to Quality
Excel High School’s accreditations from Cognia and MSA CESS affirm that we meet the high standards expected of quality educational institutions. These accreditations validate that Excel’s diplomas are valued by colleges, employers, and institutions around the world, ensuring that our graduates can confidently pursue their educational and career goals. As an “A+” rated, accredited member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB), we are committed to maintaining integrity, transparency, and excellence in every aspect of our educational offerings.
By choosing an accredited institution like Excel High School, students and parents can rest assured that their educational investment will pay off with a diploma that is widely recognized and respected.
