# accreditation

/əˌkɹɛdəˈteɪʃən/ (US) · /ɐkɹˌɛdɪtˈeɪʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/accreditation
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. official approval of quality

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic · Formal

official approval given to an organisation, like a school or hospital, to show it meets high standards.

For teachers: the formal recognition of an institution's quality and competence by an external body, typically following a rigorous evaluation process.

- The university is seeking international accreditation for its new business school.
- The hospital lost its accreditation after failing to meet the strict safety standards required by the national health board.

Usage: Often used as an uncountable noun when referring to the status, and countable when referring to the specific certificate.

Teaching tip: In professional contexts, this is stronger than 'approval'; it implies a formal, technical audit has taken place.

### 2. giving credentials

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

the act of giving someone official documents to show they have a certain role or power.

For teachers: the act of providing credentials or official status to an individual, such as a diplomat or a journalist.

- Journalists must apply for accreditation before they can enter the press gallery.
- The embassy handled the accreditation of the new diplomatic staff, ensuring all security clearances were verified before the summit.

Usage: Commonly used in the context of media events or diplomatic missions.

Teaching tip: Explain to students that this sense is about the 'right to be present' or 'right to act' in a specific capacity.

## Examples

- The college has full accreditation from the state.
- Students checked the school's accreditation before paying their tuition fees.
- Without proper accreditation, the degrees earned by students may not be recognized by employers or other universities abroad.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.