Myths of Accreditation: It's Not "Pay-to-Play"--It's a Guided Path to Quality
A few months ago, a prospective applicant shared a troubling story with me.
He had been approached by a “consultant” offering to “help” with his IACET application by reusing documentation he’d written for another provider. When the applicant raised concerns, saying the materials didn’t reflect his organization’s actual practices, the consultant replied, “As long as you pay your fees, IACET doesn’t really care what you’re doing.”
Thankfully, the provider trusted his gut and walked away from that arrangement.
But I haven’t forgotten that comment because it represents a common and deeply damaging myth: that accreditation is simply a “pay-to-play” process. Cut a check and claim the clout. No one’s really checking.
That couldn’t be further from the truth.
Accreditation Isn't Pay-to-Play
Yes, fees are involved, but those fees don’t “buy” accreditation. Rather, they support the infrastructure that ensures a consistent, fair, and credible process. At IACET, for example, the accreditation fees help fund peer reviewer training, standards development research, workshops, webinars, and a small but mighty staff committed to helping you succeed.
What they don’t fund? A shortcut.
Every organization—big or small, for-profit, nonprofit, or governmental entity—goes through the same process. That process is rooted in demonstrable proof: we ask for governance documents (policies), standard operating procedures (processes), and implementation examples (evidence) that demonstrate your commitment to quality in continuing education and training.
It's Not “Easy,” But It's Not Out of Reach
We like to say that accreditation isn’t about perfection; it’s about alignment. Are your practices aligned with a set of well-defined, research-informed standards? If so, you’re on the right track.
Some providers fly through the application, while others need more support and feedback along the way. That’s normal. That’s human.
That’s also why we provide so many resources: guides, workshops, webinars, and access to staff who can clarify what’s needed (and what’s not). You don’t have to go it alone.
In fact, most providers tell us that going through the accreditation process helped them get their house in order, strengthen internal systems, and create a better experience for their learners. That’s the point.
It’s Not About a Label; It’s About Leadership
When you earn accreditation, you’re earning confidence, and your learners can trust that your programs meet a recognized international standard. Employers, regulators, and partners know they’re engaging with an organization that values quality, transparency, and continuous improvement.
That trust can’t be purchased, but it can be built. We’re here to help you do that.
In Summary
As with anything worth doing, accreditation takes work, but it’s doable. It’s designed to challenge you just enough to raise your standards without leaving you feeling overwhelmed. And it’s not about gatekeeping. It’s about guiding.
So, if you’ve ever thought accreditation was out of reach, we invite you to take a closer look. You might be more prepared than you think.
About the Author
Randy is a seasoned executive leader currently serving as the President and CEO of IACET, a non-profit accrediting body in the continuing education and training sector. With a focus on strategic vision and operational excellence, he effectively leads the organization to achieve its mission and goals.
With over two decades of experience in various leadership roles, Randy has a proven track record of driving organizational success. His expertise lies in aligning technological solutions with strategic objectives, ensuring operational efficiency and sustainable growth.