The U.S. Department of Education has released a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) resulting from the Accreditation, Innovation, and Modernization (AIM) negotiated rulemaking process. The AIM committee developed proposed updates to federal regulations governing accreditation, with provisions on student outcomes, transfer credit, academic freedom, and other areas that may affect accredited institutions.

The public comment period is now open and closes September 21, 2026. WSCUC encourages member institutions to review the proposed rule closely and consider commenting on provisions that may have implications for institutional policies or operations. The Department is targeting November 1, 2026 for publication of final regulations, with a proposed effective date in July 2027.

WSCUC will submit formal comment and will continue the policy, Criteria for Review, and guidance work already underway. Our focus remains on supporting institutions as they advance their missions, strengthen quality, and promote success for all students. We will keep institutions informed as the rule moves toward final publication.