In February 2026, the U.S. Department of Education issued a rule clarifying that recognized nonprogrammatic accreditors should be described as “institutional accreditors” or “national accreditors.” This clarification builds on regulatory changes made in 2019, which eliminated the term “regional accreditor” in federal policy. WSCUC updated its own materials at that time to align with federal terminology.

The rule does not affect WSCUC’s Education Department recognition status or the accreditation status of WSCUC member institutions. To align with current federal language, institutions should change references to WSCUC as a “regional accreditor” to “institutional accreditor” or “national accreditor” in all public-facing communications, including policies, websites, marketing brochures, and other materials. For example, it is no longer appropriate for an institution to say it is “regionally accredited.”

We appreciate your attention to this update and your continued partnership.