ATS Accreditation
A transparent, evidence-based process that evaluates TEFL and TESOL providers against an internationally benchmarked quality framework — and recognises those that meet the standard.
Independent Quality Recognition for TEFL Providers
ATS accreditation is the independent verification that a TEFL or TESOL training provider meets a defined, internationally relevant quality standard. It is not a government licence, a university affiliation or a marketing badge — it is a genuine quality review conducted by an independent professional standards body.
Accreditation is awarded to providers that can demonstrate — through documented evidence — that their governance, curriculum, trainer qualifications, assessment systems, learner support and quality improvement processes meet the ATS Standards Framework.
It is valid for a fixed period, requires ongoing quality monitoring, and must be formally renewed through a review process before expiry.
View the Standards FrameworkAccreditation confirms:
- Governance and ethics meet quality benchmarks
- Curriculum is purposefully designed and outcomes-focused
- Trainers hold recognised qualifications and experience
- Assessment is valid, reliable and fairly administered
- Learner support and welfare standards are in place
- The provider engages in genuine quality improvement
Not a guarantee of employment or visa eligibility. ATS accreditation is professional quality recognition. It does not constitute government approval, immigration qualification or degree-level academic recognition.
How ATS Accreditation Works
ATS accreditation follows a structured four-step cycle that applies equally to all provider types and delivery modes.
Define Standards
ATS publishes and maintains an 8-domain Standards Framework, reviewed regularly with input from its Advisory Board and the global TEFL community.
Evaluate Providers
Providers apply, self-evaluate and submit evidence. ATS conducts an independent desk review and virtual audit against all applicable standards.
Grant Accreditation
The independent Accreditation Committee reviews the evaluation report and issues a formal decision. Successful providers receive a certificate, badge and registry listing.
Verify Quality
Accredited providers submit annual quality declarations and are subject to ongoing monitoring, random checks and a formal renewal review before expiry.
The Application Process in Detail
From initial eligibility check to registry listing — here is exactly what happens at each stage.
Pre-Application Eligibility Check
Before applying, confirm you meet minimum criteria: legal registration, active TEFL/TESOL course delivery, published fees and policies, student support process and a verifiable certificate.
Formal Application Submission
Submit the ATS application form with business registration documents, course overview, trainer profiles, sample certificate and payment of the non-refundable application fee.
Self-Evaluation Report
Complete a structured self-study report covering your institutional profile, curriculum design, trainer qualifications, assessment systems, learner support and quality assurance processes.
Desk Review
The ATS review team evaluates your submitted documentation against all applicable standards and indicators. Outcome: proceed to audit, request additional evidence, or determine ineligibility.
Virtual Audit
For online and blended providers, a virtual audit includes LMS review, lesson sampling, student journey walkthrough and a structured interview with the Academic Director and lead trainers.
Scoring & Evaluation Report
Evaluators score each standard on a 4-level scale (1 Does Not Meet → 4 Exceeds). A full report is prepared covering findings, evidence observations, strengths, gaps and recommendations.
Accreditation Committee Decision
The Accreditation Committee reviews the evaluation report independently of the assessor and issues a formal decision. Providers are notified in writing within 5 working days of the decision.
Certificate, Badge & Registry Listing
Successful providers receive their accreditation certificate, a unique reference number, digital badge files and badge usage guidelines. The provider is listed in the ATS Public Registry immediately.
Four Accreditation Levels
ATS accreditation is awarded at one of four progressive levels. Each level reflects the depth and maturity of a provider’s quality systems.
Provider Approval
Entry-level quality recognition for newer or smaller TEFL and TESOL providers who demonstrate foundational quality practices and meet ATS core eligibility criteria.
- ✓Legal and ethical standing confirmed
- ✓Core curriculum requirements met
- ✓At least one qualified trainer
- ✓Student protection and complaints policy in place
Full Accreditation
Full independent quality recognition for established providers who meet all applicable ATS Standards Framework requirements. The benchmark mark of ATS quality.
- ✓All 8 ATS standards fully evaluated
- ✓Comprehensive evidence review
- ✓Virtual or on-site audit conducted
- ✓Committee decision issued
Premier Accreditation
High distinction recognition for leading institutions demonstrating excellence across all quality domains. Requires strong evidence of innovation, outcomes and continuous improvement.
- ✓All ATS Accredited criteria met
- ✓Evidence of sector leadership
- ✓Strong learner outcome data
- ✓CPD and innovation culture demonstrated
ATS Centre of Excellence
The highest ATS distinction. By invitation only. Reserved for flagship global institutions that consistently exceed standards and actively shape the quality culture of the TEFL profession.
- ✓Invitation only — not open application
- ✓Exemplary performance across all standards
- ✓Recognised sector leadership
- ✓Active contribution to standards development
What Accreditation Includes
Every accredited provider receives the following on confirmation of a successful accreditation decision.
Accreditation Certificate
A formal ATS accreditation certificate stating your accreditation level, scope, validity period and accreditation reference number. Issued as a signed PDF.
Unique Reference Number
Every accredited provider receives a unique ATS accreditation ID in the format ATS-YYYY-XXX. Used for public registry search and badge verification.
Digital Badge Files
High-resolution digital badge files for your website, email signature, course materials and marketing — at the correct accreditation level.
QR Code Verification
A unique QR code linking to your live accreditation record. Learners and employers can scan it to verify your current accreditation status instantly.
Public Registry Listing
Your organization is listed in the ATS Public Registry with your accreditation level, validity dates and accreditation scope — publicly searchable worldwide.
Evaluation Report Summary
A written summary of your evaluation findings, including strengths identified and recommendations for continuous improvement.
Badge Usage Guidelines
A copy of the ATS Badge Usage Policy and guidelines confirming how and where you may display your accreditation mark.
Annual Quality Declaration
Access to the ATS annual quality declaration process, which maintains your live accreditation status between full review cycles.
Member Benefits
Accredited providers automatically qualify for ATS Institutional Membership benefits, including the 15% membership discount on renewal fees.
Accreditation Decision Categories
The Accreditation Committee independently reviews each evaluation report and issues one of five formal decision types.
Provider meets all core standards at the relevant accreditation level. Certificate issued.
Provider meets most standards but must address one or more specific conditions within a set timeframe (typically 3–6 months).
New or early-stage provider shows clear potential. Approved at ATS Approved level with enhanced first-year monitoring.
Evaluation is inconclusive. More evidence or clarification is required before a decision can be issued.
Provider does not meet the required standards at this time. Detailed feedback provided. Re-application permitted after 6 months.
Appeals Process
Providers who wish to appeal a decision must submit a written appeal within 20 working days of receiving notification. Appeals are reviewed by an independent panel that did not participate in the original decision.
- Submit appeal in writing to ATS with grounds stated
- Appeal panel appointed within 10 working days
- Decision issued within 20 working days of appeal
- Appeal panel decision is final
Ongoing Quality Monitoring
Accreditation is not a one-time mark. Accredited providers are monitored continuously through:
- Annual quality declaration (mandatory)
- Random spot-check reviews
- Complaint investigation process
- Significant change notification requirement
- Formal renewal review before expiry
Who Can Apply for ATS Accreditation
ATS accreditation is open to any organisation delivering TEFL or TESOL teacher training, regardless of size, location or delivery mode.
Independent TEFL Providers
Standalone training schools and institutes delivering TEFL or TESOL certificate programs — online, in-person or blended.
Language Schools
Language schools that include teacher training programs alongside general English or EFL tuition.
Universities & Colleges
Higher education institutions with TEFL or TESOL programs at undergraduate, postgraduate or continuing education level.
Online Course Platforms
Technology platforms delivering fully online TEFL or TESOL courses, with or without synchronous tutor support.
Blended Learning Providers
Providers that combine online learning with in-person or virtual practice teaching components.
Corporate Training Divisions
In-house teacher development teams within international schools, EFL publishers or corporate language training companies.
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
Accreditation Fees
ATS operates a transparent, published fee structure. All fees are quoted in USD. Application fees are non-refundable. Annual quality declaration fees apply to all accredited providers from year two onwards.
Fees are structured around provider size and complexity. Contact ATS for a personalised quote based on your organisation profile and delivery mode.
ATS Institutional Members save
on all accreditation application fees. Explore membership →
- ✓ Application fee discount
- ✓ Priority accreditation window access
- ✓ Standards alignment consultation
- ✓ Quarterly member communications
Request a Fee Quote
Tell us about your organisation and we will provide a detailed, itemised fee breakdown within 3 working days.
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