Institutional Accreditation: Transition to Higher Learning
Commission
In 2024, Eastern Florida State College achieved a significant milestone with the successful reaffirmation of its accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges( SACSCOC) for a full 10-year term. This reaffirmation underscores EFSC’ s commitment to academic excellence and institutional integrity, ensuring that our students receive a high-quality education recognized nationwide.
Institutional accreditation is more than a compliance requirement— it is a cornerstone of educational quality and student success. Through a rigorous peer-review process, institutional accreditation validates the value of an EFSC education, facilitates seamless credit transfers for students pursuing advanced degrees, and ensures continued access to Title IV financial aid. These benefits strengthen EFSC’ s reputation and enhance our ability to attract and retain talented students and faculty.
In response to Florida Senate Bill 7044( 2022), which mandates all Florida College System institutions to seek new accreditation following reaffirmation or a fifth-year review, EFSC is proactively positioning itself for the future. With approval from the Board of Trustees, EFSC selected the Higher Learning Commission( HLC) as our next partner in quality assurance.
accreditor, is already underway. This 18 – 24-month process includes four key steps:
1. Submission of Letter of Intent to the Federal Student Aid program
2. Formal application to HLC 3. Preliminary review 4. Comprehensive evaluation and on-site visit
EFSC will maintain compliance with SACSCOC standards throughout this transition, ensuring uninterrupted accreditation coverage.
By the end of 2025, EFSC had completed the first two steps, with a preliminary review expected in early spring 2026. A comprehensive evaluation and on-site visit are anticipated in fall 2026 or spring 2027.
This transition is not just a regulatory requirement— it is a strategic investment in EFSC’ s future. By aligning our processes with HLC standards, EFSC strengthens its reputation, and ensures that our graduates remain highly competitive in an evolving global economy. These efforts reinforce our commitment to excellence and innovation, setting the stage for new collaborations with business and industry partners and advancing our role as a leader in workforce development.
The accelerated HLC application process, designed for colleges in good standing with their current institutional
9 | EFSC COLLEGE ACCOMPLISHMENTS