State-Approved Accreditation Vendor Application

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This page provides information for nationally recognized accreditation organizations interested in becoming an approved vendor in North Dakota. In accordance with Senate Bill 2362, passed during the 69th Legislative Assembly (2025), the North Dakota Department of Public Instruction may approve alternative accreditation providers that meet or exceed state standards and demonstrate a commitment to improving student achievement.

Here, you’ll find eligibility criteria, application instructions, review timelines, and expectations for maintaining approved status. Approved vendors will be listed publicly and may be selected by schools seeking an accreditation option that aligns with their instructional goals and operational needs.

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Purpose
This guidance outlines the process for nationally recognized accreditation organizations to apply for inclusion on North Dakota’s state-approved list, in accordance with NDAC 67-19-01-44.

Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, an organization must:

  • Be nationally recognized
  • Maintain standards that address:
    • Student academic achievement (measurable outcomes)
    • Curriculum and instruction
    • Educator qualifications
    • Leadership and governance
    • Student support services
    • Continuous improvement
  • Submit a complete application with all required documentation

Submission Instructions

  • Submit the completed application and supporting documents via the online form.
  • DPI will confirm receipt within 5 business days.

Review Timeline

  • DPI will review and respond to complete applications within 30 calendar days.

Cost Responsibility

  • Schools selecting a vendor from the approved list (other than the state-provided option) are responsible for all accreditation-related costs.

Approval and Maintenance

  • Approved organizations will be listed on the DPI website.
  • DPI may remove vendors not in compliance with criteria.
  • DPI will periodically evaluate vendor effectiveness.

Guidance for Applying to the State-Approved Accreditation Vendor List

Submit an Online Application 

Internal Scoring Rubric (for reference only)

Questions?

For inquiries, please contact the Office of School Approval & Opportunity

 

No applications have been submitted at this time. Please check back periodically for updates to the approved vendor list.