Institutional Accreditation

Independent quality accreditation for TEFL training providers, language schools, universities and online course platforms delivering TEFL and TESOL education.

Institutional Accreditation Overview

ATS Institutional Accreditation is awarded to organizations — training providers, language schools, universities and online platforms — that have been independently evaluated against the ATS Standards Framework and found to meet the required quality benchmarks.

Institutional accreditation covers the whole organization as a quality-recognized provider. It confirms that the provider’s governance, curriculum, trainers, assessment systems, learner support and quality improvement processes all meet ATS standards.

Accreditation is valid for 1, 3, 4 or 5 years depending on the level awarded, and requires ongoing quality monitoring and renewal reviews.

Start Your Application

Who should apply?

  • Independent TEFL training providers
  • Language schools offering teacher training programs
  • Universities and colleges with TEFL/TESOL departments
  • Online TEFL course providers and platforms
  • Blended and hybrid program providers
  • International schools with teacher development programs

What Institutional Accreditation Covers

Governance & Ethics

Legal standing, organizational structure, published policies, student protection framework and financial transparency.

Curriculum Quality

Course design, learning outcomes, content coverage, practical teaching components and CEFR alignment.

Trainer Competence

Trainer qualifications, teaching experience, subject expertise, CPD engagement and performance review.

Assessment Integrity

Assessment design, grading systems, internal quality assurance, moderation and certification validity.

Learner Support

Pre-enrolment information, induction, student support, pastoral care, complaints and refund policy.

Quality Improvement

Self-evaluation process, student feedback, graduate outcomes, management review and improvement planning.

Institutional Accreditation Levels

ATS Approved

Provider Approval

Entry-level recognition for newer or smaller providers demonstrating foundational quality practices.

Valid 1 Year
ATS Accredited

Full Accreditation

Full recognition for providers meeting all ATS Standards Framework requirements. The benchmark quality mark.

Valid 3 Years
ATS Premier

Premier Accreditation

High distinction for established institutions demonstrating excellence across all quality domains.

Valid 4 Years
Centre of Excellence

Centre of Excellence

Invitation-only. The highest ATS distinction for flagship global providers with exemplary quality records.

5 Years + Annual Review

Application Process

1

Eligibility Check

Confirm you meet minimum eligibility criteria before applying.

2

Submit Application

Complete the application form with organizational and course details.

3

Evaluation Review

Desk review and virtual audit against all applicable ATS standards.

4

Decision & Award

Committee decision issued. Certificate, badge and registry listing provided.

Apply for Institutional Accreditation

Begin your application or contact ATS to discuss your eligibility before applying.