Institutional Accreditation
Purpose
Institutional accreditation evaluates the entire university as a whole — including its leadership, mission, academic integrity, virtual infrastructure, and overall student learning experience.
Eligibility
The university must be legally registered in its country of operation.
It must offer online, hybrid, or distance-learning programs.
It must demonstrate compliance with national or regional educational laws.
Our Vision
To become the world’s most trusted reference for quality assurance in online learning — where every accredited institution represents innovation, inclusivity, and educational excellence in the digital age.
Evaluation Focus Areas
Governance & Leadership – Organizational structure, mission, ethics, transparency.
Academic Standards – Curriculum design, learning outcomes, and assessment systems.
Faculty Competence – Qualifications, online teaching training, and research engagement.
Technological Infrastructure – Learning management system (LMS), cybersecurity, data privacy.
Student Support & Accessibility – Tutoring, counseling, feedback channels, inclusion.
Financial & Administrative Integrity – Resource allocation, institutional sustainability.
Benefits
Global recognition as a trusted online university.
Verification listing in GACOL’s Accredited Institutions Directory.
Use of the GACOL Accreditation Seal and Certificate ID.
Eligibility for program-specific or international partnership accreditation.
FAQ
What is GACOL accreditation?
GACOL accreditation is a formal recognition that an online university meets defined global quality standards in governance, curriculum, technology, and student experience.
Can any university apply?
Yes. Any legally registered institution offering online or hybrid higher-education programs can apply for accreditation.
How long does accreditation last?
Full accreditation is valid for five (5) years, with annual quality reviews and renewal options.
Each accredited institution and program is published in GACOL’s Accredited Institutions Directory and can be verified through a unique Certificate ID and QR code.
How can the public verify a certificate?
How to verify accreditation?
Use our online verification tool for confirmation.
GACOL stands for a future where education quality is not determined by geography but by integrity and impact.
We believe online universities are the architects of the next generation of global learning — and our mission is to recognize their excellence.
© 2025 Global Accreditation Council for Online Learning (GACOL). All rights reserved.