Accreditation
A trusted process
for your strongest future.
Accreditation is more than a designation. It is a commitment to continuous improvement, mission-driven excellence, and accountability to the students and families your school serves. Since 1973, VAIS has stood as the leading accrediting body for Virginia’s independent schools, supporting institutions through a rigorous, collaborative process that strengthens schools and honors their unique missions.
VAIS-accredited schools are recognized by VCPE, the Virginia Council for Private Education, which is authorized by the Virginia State Board of Education to oversee accreditation. VCPE is the only organization authorized to oversee the accreditation of PK-12 Private Schools in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Va. Code § 22.1-19.
As an ICAISA-recognized association, VAIS holds its accreditation program to a rigorous, peer-reviewed evaluation process rooted in continuous improvement and quality assurance. This commitment to international accountability ensures our Standards actively elevate, strengthen, and support the independent schools we serve.
Explore the accreditation process
Whether your school is beginning its accreditation journey or preparing for its next evaluation, we offer clear guidance and support at every stage. Find resources to better understand the standards, pathways, and decisions that shape accreditation.
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Standards for membership
Explore the principles and expectations that guide accredited VAIS schools.
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Become a candidate school
Learn about the pathway to membership and the first steps toward accreditation.
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Accreditation decisions
Review accreditation categories, outcomes, and what schools can expect throughout the process.
Take the next step in your continuous growth through VAIS accreditation.
Every independent school is distinct. The VAIS accreditation process is designed to affirm each school’s mission — and our team is here to guide you through every stage of the process.