Guidance

Clarification of the Appropriate Use of Terms “National” and “Regional” by Recognized Accrediting Agencies

Description 

The U.S. Department of Education’s (Department) interpretive rule clarifies language in the Higher Education Act (HEA) and regulatory changes effective July 1, 2020,  that “regional” accreditation is no longer a recognized or appropriate term. All recognized accreditors are “nationally recognized” (or “institutional/programmatic”). Continued use of “regional” is considered misleading to students and the public.  

Although called a "rule", as a matter of process, a proposed interpretive rule is a form of guidance and not subject to the formal, lengthy notice-and-comment process mandated for substantive ("legislative") rules by the Administrative Procedure Act (APA). The Department may still invite public comments to allow stakeholders to provide feedback or suggest revisions. The interpretive rule can be effective upon publication while simultaneously inviting public comment.

Action to be taken

  • Update language: Remove “regional” vs. “national” distinctions from websites, catalogs, and policies—use “institutional accreditation” or instead.
  • Revise communications: Ensure marketing and public-facing materials don’t imply a quality difference.
  • Train staff: Align admissions, advising, and communications teams on the updated terminology.
  • Coordinate with accreditors: Confirm consistent language across accreditation disclosures and reports

Publication Date

February 17, 2026

Resources