Federal Register #2026-17001

Department of Education Proposed Rulemaking on Accrediting Agency Recognition Regulations

The Department of Education is proposing regulatory changes to the recognition process for accrediting agencies in higher education. - Government Buyer: - Department of Education - Office of Postsecondary Education - No OEMs or vendors are involved; this is a regulatory action, not a procurement. - Products/Services Requested: - No products or services are being procured. - Unique or Notable Requirements: - Modernizes accrediting agency recognition processes - Increases transparency and encourages competition among accrediting agencies - Eliminates geographic restrictions for agencies - Strengthens fiscal and administrative criteria for accrediting agencies - Requires transfer-of-credit disclosures - Mandates public notice of changes in agency recognition - Seeks public comments on proposed regulations - Focus is on improving educational quality, protecting students and taxpayers, and promoting innovation and accountability in accreditation.

Description

The Department of Education proposes to revise the accrediting agency recognition regulations at 34 CFR part 602 to implement directives from Executive Order 14279, align regulations with statute, and reduce regulatory burden. The proposed rule aims to improve educational quality, protect students and taxpayers, and promote a higher education accreditation system that supports innovation, accountability, and legal compliance. Key provisions include modernizing recognition processes, requiring transparency, and encouraging competition among accrediting agencies. Comments on the proposed rule must be received by September 21, 2026.

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