ABOUT International Accreditation Council for Schools of Business
™
About IACSB
The International Accreditation Council for Schools of Business (IACSB) traces its origins back
to the Leadership Institute of 1996, which focused on developing certification standards and business
principles. Today, IACSB serves as a global accreditation body offering board certifications. These
certifications are granted to accredited courses, program exams, and business schools, providing a legitimate
path to professional designations.
IACSB sets the highest standards of quality, grounded in government-recognized education and
examinations. Our Quality Management Board evaluates credentials for accreditation based on rigorous
certification criteria.
As a Certifying Body and Learning Service Provider, IACSB adheres to globally recognized
standards such as ISO 29990, ISO 21001, ISO 29993, and ISO 9001. We offer qualifications and charter
designations, and our Board of Standards oversees certifications approved under ISO 29993 for non-formal
training. This accreditation extends to our partners, ensuring that they provide courses aligned with
certification requirements.
IACSB accredits programs worldwide, granting access to our proprietary certification marks and
logos. These indicators help learners identify business schools that meet U.S. Department of Education
Standards, ISO Standards, and Quality Standards.
Once a course is approved by IACSB, it becomes a joint education and certification program,
enhancing the value of the learning experience for students.
When a program is approved by IACSB , it becomes an Accredited Professional Development Body, offering joint education and
certification programs. These programs help learners specialize in subjects using TCO (Terminal Course Objectives) that align with industry standards.
IACSB Accreditation Standards
Quality standards in professional skills certification are essential to ensure certifications
are reputable, reliable, and recognized as credible indicators of competence. While standards may vary by
industry and certifying body, the following IACSB quality standards apply:
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Accreditation: Certification programs should be accredited by recognized
accrediting bodies or government agencies to verify adherence to quality standards.
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Validity: The certification exam and assessment process should measure the
skills and knowledge relevant to the profession.
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Reliability: The exam should produce consistent results for test-takers of
the same competence level.
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Fairness: The process should be fair and unbiased, providing equal
opportunities for all candidates.
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Clear Learning Objectives: Defined competencies that outline the skills
and knowledge expected of candidates.
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Job Task Analysis: Regular analysis to ensure certification aligns with
industry demands.
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Assessment Development: Rigorous procedures for developing exams and
assessment tools.
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Standard Setting: Transparent and valid processes for setting passing
scores.
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Security Measures: Strict measures to protect exam integrity and prevent
cheating.
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Candidate Eligibility: Clear criteria to determine if candidates meet
qualifications.
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Recertification Requirements: Processes to maintain certification and
ensure skills remain current.
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Continued Professional Development: Encouraging resources for ongoing
professional growth.
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Ethics and Code of Conduct: A code outlining expected professional
conduct.
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Governance and Oversight: Effective oversight to ensure compliance with
quality standards.
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Transparency: Open disclosure of certification policies and
procedures.
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Appeals and Grievances: A fair process for candidates to appeal decisions
or address grievances.
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Public Awareness: Promoting understanding of the certification’s
value.
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Continuous Improvement: Regular program evaluation and improvements.
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Industry Recognition: Collaborating with industry stakeholders to gain
recognition.
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International Alignment: Ensuring alignment with international standards
for global recognition.
Functions of Accreditation and Quality Standards
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Verifying that institutions or programs meet established standards.
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Assisting prospective students in identifying acceptable institutions.
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Helping institutions determine the acceptability of transfer credits.
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Identifying institutions and programs for investment of public and private funds.
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Protecting institutions from harmful internal and external pressures.
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Stimulating self-improvement in weaker programs and raising standards across
institutions.
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Involving faculty and staff in institutional evaluation and planning.
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Establishing criteria for professional certification and licensure.
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Providing considerations for determining eligibility for federal assistance.
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