The 10-year Comprehensive Review by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), will determine if WashU meets HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation for ensuring the quality of our degrees and assuring continued access to federal support for our students and faculty. Preparation for the review has been a major effort across many different areas of the university. The review will conclude with an on-site visit by a team of five HLC peer reviewers on October 28-29, 2024.
Components of a Comprehensive Evaluation
As part of the evaluation, WashU is required to submit an Assurance Argument, along with materials of evidence to demonstrate that it is in compliance with HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation. The team of peer reviewers conducting the comprehensive evaluation reviews these materials in preparation for an on-site visit.
A Federal Compliance Review is conducted as part of a 10-year comprehensive evaluation. WashU must submit a Federal Compliance Filing demonstrating that they are meeting their Title IV program responsibility, as well as complying with the expectations of specific regulations set by the U.S. Department of Education. Compliance with these federal requirements is necessary for the institutions to be eligible for federal financial aid. HLC is required to conduct this review as a federally recognized accrediting agency.
The HLC conducted an online survey of WashU’s student body prior to the on-site peer review visit. The survey is intended to give students an opportunity to participate in the evaluation process, and to help identify questions for the peer reviewers to ask while on site.
The on-site visits will take place October 28-29, 2024, after the peer review team has reviewed WashU’s report and student survey results. The team will meet with the institution’s leadership and board, as well as open forums with faculty, staff and students.