Accreditation
Overview
Accreditation by the Global Accreditation Council for Online Learning (GACOL) signifies that an institution meets internationally recognized standards of academic quality, technological reliability, and ethical governance in online higher education.
Our goal is not only to evaluate but also to empower institutions to achieve sustainable excellence and global credibility.
GACOL’s accreditation process is designed to be transparent, measurable, and fully adaptable to universities operating in online or blended-learning environments.
Our Mission
To promote excellence, integrity, and accountability in digital higher education by providing an impartial and internationally recognized system of accreditation for online universities and programs.
Our Vision
To become the world’s most trusted reference for quality assurance in online learning — where every accredited institution represents innovation, inclusivity, and educational excellence in the digital age.
Our Objectives
Establish internationally harmonized standards for online university accreditation.
Conduct independent institutional evaluations using transparent, data-driven criteria.
Support universities in implementing continuous quality improvement systems.
Provide global recognition through publicly verifiable accreditation certificates.
Encourage innovation in digital education, open learning, and student engagement.
Governance Structure
Council of Accreditation: Approves accreditation frameworks, policies, and standards.
Accreditation Board: Reviews and votes on all institutional applications and renewals.
Technical Evaluation Committee: Conducts remote or onsite audits of universities.
Ethics & Compliance Committee: Monitors integrity, independence, and adherence to GACOL’s Code of Ethics.
Secretariat: Manages daily operations, documentation, and communication with applicant institutions.
Our Global Framework
GACOL’s evaluation model draws from internationally recognized benchmarks, including:
UNESCO/OECD Guidelines for Quality in Cross-Border Higher Education
European Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance (ENQA)
ISO 21001:2018 Educational Organization Management System
CHEA International Quality Group Principles
FAQ
What is GACOL accreditation?
GACOL accreditation is a formal recognition that an online university meets defined global quality standards in governance, curriculum, technology, and student experience.
Can any university apply?
Yes. Any legally registered institution offering online or hybrid higher-education programs can apply for accreditation.
How long does accreditation last?
Full accreditation is valid for five (5) years, with annual quality reviews and renewal options.
Each accredited institution and program is published in GACOL’s Accredited Institutions Directory and can be verified through a unique Certificate ID and QR code.
How can the public verify a certificate?
How to verify accreditation?
Use our online verification tool for confirmation.
GACOL stands for a future where education quality is not determined by geography but by integrity and impact.
We believe online universities are the architects of the next generation of global learning — and our mission is to recognize their excellence.
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