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Scope & Limitations of Accreditation

Clarifying the Authority, Application, and Boundaries of IEB Accreditation

The International Education Board (IEB) provides an independent, voluntary, and non-statutory accreditation system. This page defines the scope of IEB accreditation and clearly outlines its limitations to ensure accurate understanding, responsible use, and public transparency.
 

Scope of IEB Accreditation

IEB accreditation applies to the quality assurance systems of eligible education and training providers across multiple sectors. Accreditation focuses on institutional readiness, governance, academic integrity, delivery standards, learner support, and continuous improvement.

IEB accreditation may be applied to:

  • Universities and higher education institutions

  • Schools and pre-university education providers

  • Online, distance, and blended learning platforms

  • Homeschooling and alternative education models

  • Healthcare, aesthetic, and dental education providers

  • Skill enhancement, vocational, CPD, and professional training organizations

Accreditation is granted within the defined scope of programs, campuses, delivery modes, or services evaluated during the accreditation process.

Institutional vs Programmatic Scope

  • Institutional Accreditation: Evaluates governance, quality assurance systems, policies, and overall educational delivery

  • Programmatic or Course-Level Accreditation: Applies to specific programs, courses, or training offerings where applicable

The scope of accreditation is explicitly stated in the official accreditation certificate and decision letter.

Geographic Scope

IEB accreditation is international in orientation and may be held by institutions operating in different countries or jurisdictions. Accreditation is granted based on compliance with IEB standards and does not confer jurisdictional authority.

Institutions must continue to comply with local laws, regulations, and statutory requirements applicable in their operating regions.

What IEB Accreditation Does Not Cover

To prevent misinterpretation, IEB accreditation:

  • Is not a government or statutory approval

  • Does not grant degree equivalency or professional licensing

  • Does not replace national accreditation or regulatory recognition

  • Does not authorize immigration, employment, or visa benefits

  • Does not certify individual graduates or confer titles

IEB accreditation reflects quality alignment, not legal entitlement.

Limitations of Accreditation Claims

Accredited institutions:

  • Must accurately represent their accreditation scope, level, and validity

  • Must not imply government recognition, legal equivalency, or regulatory endorsement

  • Must use IEB accreditation statements and logos only as permitted under the Recognition & Use of Accreditation guidelines

Misrepresentation may result in corrective action, suspension, or withdrawal of accreditation.

Dynamic Nature of Accreditation

Accreditation status and scope are subject to:

  • Ongoing monitoring and review

  • Changes in institutional operations or ownership

  • Compliance with updated standards and policies

IEB reserves the right to modify, restrict, suspend, or withdraw accreditation in accordance with its governance procedures.

Importance of Transparency

Clear understanding of the scope and limitations of accreditation protects:

  • Learners and the public

  • Accredited institutions

  • The integrity of the accreditation system

IEB encourages institutions to communicate accreditation responsibly and transparently.

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