Allison Garrett Shares Thoughts on New Department of Education Accreditation Rule

March 13, 2026 - 19:28

A recent rule change from the U.S. Department of Education is being welcomed by many in higher education for providing much-needed flexibility in the accreditation process. The updated regulation allows colleges and universities to implement certain substantive changes, such as adding new programs or locations, without first seeking approval from their accrediting agency.

This shift is seen as a significant breakthrough, potentially reducing bureaucratic delays and allowing institutions to be more responsive to student needs and labor market demands. Previously, the requirement for prior approval could stall innovation and the expansion of educational offerings for months.

Legal experts note that the rule carefully balances this new flexibility with maintained oversight. Accreditors retain the authority to review these changes after the fact and must still pre-approve the most significant institutional shifts, such as mergers or changes of ownership. This approach aims to streamline operations while upholding the essential quality assurance role of accreditation.

The change is expected to be particularly beneficial for institutions looking to quickly adapt to emerging fields or to expand access through new instructional sites. By reducing the procedural burden, the Department of Education intends to foster an environment where colleges can more nimbly meet educational goals. The success of the new framework will depend on its implementation, with the higher education community watching closely to see how accreditors apply their post-implementation review powers.