This guide outlines the complete process for TEFL course accreditation by ITEFLOCA, from initial application to final decision. It is designed to provide clear expectations and timelines for course providers seeking accreditation.

SECTION 1: ACCREDITATION PROCESS OVERVIEW

The ITEFLOCA accreditation process consists of the following key stages:

1. Initial Provider Verification (Free)
2. Formal Course Accreditation Application (Fee required)
3. Course Access and Review
4. Accreditation Decision
5. Post-Accreditation Requirements

SECTION 2: DETAILED PROCESS STEPS

2.1 Initial Provider Verification

Purpose: To verify that the course provider meets ITEFLOCA’s basic requirements for transparency and legitimacy before proceeding to the full accreditation process.

Process:

1. Provider submits the Initial Provider Verification Form to accreditor@itefloca.com.
2. ITEFLOCA conducts a preliminary review of the provider’s website and public information at no cost to the provider.
3. ITEFLOCA checks for clear display of business name, address, and contact information.
4. ITEFLOCA reviews course pricing transparency and refund policies.

Timeframe: 3-10  business days

Outcome: If verification is successful, the provider will receive an invitation to submit a Formal Course Accreditation Application. If unsuccessful, the provider will receive feedback on areas needing improvement before reapplication.

2.2 Formal Course Accreditation Application

Purpose: To collect detailed information about the course(s) to be accredited and initiate the formal review process.

Process:

1. Provider submits the Formal Course Accreditation Application along with the Self-Assessment Checklist.
2. Provider submits the Course Access Agreement.
3. Provider pays the 50% deposit of the accreditation fee.
4. ITEFLOCA verifies all submitted documentation is complete.
5. ITEFLOCA assigns reviewer(s) to the application.

Timeframe: Application processing starts within 2 business days of receipt of complete application and deposit

Requirements:

• Completed application forms
• Self-assessment against ITEFLOCA standards
• Signed Course Access Agreement
• 50% deposit payment

2.3 Course Access and Review

Purpose: To thoroughly evaluate the course content, structure, assessment methods, and student support services against ITEFLOCA standards.

Process:

1. Provider grants full access to course(s) as specified in the Course Access Agreement.
2. ITEFLOCA reviewers access the course(s) and conduct a comprehensive evaluation using standardized checklists.
3. Each standard is evaluated as “Meets,” “Almost,” or “Not Yet” meeting requirements.
4. Reviewers document evidence for each rating.
5. If clarification is needed, ITEFLOCA contacts the provider.

Review Areas:

• Provider transparency and policies
• Course content appropriate to hour designation
• Instructional design and delivery
• Assessment methods
• Student support services
• Certification standards

Timeframe: 1-2 weeks from the time complete access is provided

2.4 Accreditation Decision

Purpose: To determine the accreditation status based on the review findings.

Process:

1. Reviewers compile a comprehensive evaluation report.
2. Accreditation status is determined based on the following criteria:
   • Accredited – Excellent: Exceeds all standards (requires unanimous agreement from accreditation staff)
   • Accredited: Meets all standards with no “Almost” or “Not Yet” ratings
   • Provisionally Accredited: Meets most standards with up to 3 “Almost” ratings
   • Not Yet Accredited: Contains one or more “Not Yet” ratings
3. Provider is notified of the decision with a detailed report.
4. Provider pays the remaining 50% of the accreditation fee (unless the decision is to not accredit yet).
5. If accredited, ITEFLOCA issues official accreditation documentation.
6. If not accredited, Provider has an opportunity to amend and be re-evaluated for those points not meeting the clear standards.

Timeframe: Decision communicated within 3 business days of review completion

2.5 Post-Accreditation Requirements

Purpose: To ensure ongoing compliance with ITEFLOCA standards.

Process:

1. Accredited providers receive digital badges and certificates for display.
2. Providers with Provisional Accreditation must improve at least one “Almost” rating to “Meets” within the first year.
3. Annual membership renewal after the first year (first year included with accreditation).
4. All accredited courses must undergo review every 5 years to maintain accreditation status.

SECTION 3: ACCREDITATION FEES AND TIMELINES

3.1 Fee Structure

• Initial Provider Verification: Free
• Course Accreditation Fee: Based on number of courses (50% due at application, 50% due upon accreditation status granted) 
• Annual Membership: Required after first year (first year included with initial accreditation)

3.2 Timeline Summary

• Initial Provider Verification: 3-5 business days
• Application Processing: 2-5 business days
• Course Review: 1-2 weeks
• Accreditation Decision: 3 business days after review completion
• Total Process: Approximately 2-4 weeks from initial application to final decision

SECTION 4: APPEALS AND RECONSIDERATION

If a provider wishes to appeal an accreditation decision, they may submit a written appeal within 14 days of receiving the decision. Appeals should include specific evidence addressing the standards in question.

The appeal will be reviewed by ITEFLOCA staff members not involved in the original decision. The appeal decision will be communicated within 21 days and will be final.

SECTION 5: CONTACT INFORMATION

For questions about the accreditation process, please contact:

Email: accreditor@itefloca.com
Website: www.itefloca.com