Programs that (1) have met the eligibility requirements for ABET accreditation and (2) implemented assessment processes may begin the accreditation process by filing a Request for Evaluation. This 18-month process is summarized below (including due dates).
Readiness Review
Programs seeking initial accreditation in a commission for which the institution has no current ABET-accredited programs must undergo a Readiness Review, will help ABET determine whether or not an institution is ready to submit a formal Request for Evaluation (RFE) for that program.
Request for Evaluation (RFE)
An RFE submission is due January 31st of the year in which a review is desired. RFEs should always be accompanied by official transcripts and the Request for Approval (RFA) form if the program is outside of the U.S.
Self-Study Report
One Self-Study Report per program is due July 1st following the submission of a Request for Evaluation. One copy should be submitted to ABET Headquarters by July 1st and one copy should be provided to each review team member following the team chair’s instructions. See Preparing for Self-Study Reports and On-Site Reviews for more information.
On-Site Visit
On-site visits are typically scheduled between September and December in the same year of an RFE submission. See Preparing for Self-Study Reports and On-Site Reviews for more information.
Due Process Response Period
The 30-day due process response period takes place after the on-site review is completed and well before the commission decision-making meeting in July. ABET sends the institution a Draft Statement containing a section for each program reviewed. The institution has 30 days to provide information on actions the programs have taken to resolve any shortcomings the team identified at the conclusion of the on-site visit.
Decision and Notification
Each team chair presents his/her team’s findings to the respective commission in July. A Final Statement will be prepared based on the review team’s findings, the program’s responses, and the responsible accreditation commission’s decision. The Final Statement is sent to the institution by August 31st.
Questions?
Please contact the Accreditation Department.