An affiliate status indicating that an institution appears to meet the Commission's conditions of eligibility and that its Application for Consideration has been accepted. Recognition as an Applicant neither implies nor ensures an institution will attain Candidate or Accredited status with the Commission.

An affiliate preaccreditation status indicating that an institution meets the Commission's Eligibility Requirements and is progressing toward accreditation. Recognition as a Candidate neither implies nor ensures an institution will attain Accredited status with NWCCU.

An affiliate status indicating that an institution meets the Commission's established standards of educational quality and effectiveness. Accredited status indicates that the institution: 1) has clearly defined and appropriate educational objectives; 2) operates under conditions by which achievement of those educational objectives can reasonably be expected; 3) is substantially accomplishing its educational objectives; and 4) is organized, staffed, and supported to warrant confidence that it will continue to achieve its educational objectives in the foreseeable future.