How do I know if an online college is accredited?

I'm considering enrolling in an online college, but I'm not sure how to confirm if it's accredited. What steps should I take to verify accreditation, and why is this important for my future education and career plans?

Confirming the accreditation status of an online college is a crucial step in your college search process. Accreditation ensures that the institution meets specific standards, and it impacts the veracity and value of your degree.

There are a few ways to verify the accreditation status of an online college.

Here are some steps you can take:

1. Look on the Institution's Website: Most accredited online colleges will display their accreditation status on their website. It's usually in the "About" section, or somewhere on the homepage. Keep in mind though, that you should always cross-check this info to avoid falling for potential scams.

2. Check with Accreditation Agencies: You can individually check if a school is accredited by visiting the websites of authorized accrediting agencies. The U.S. Department of Education maintains a database of these approved bodies.

3. Use the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs (DAPIP): DAPIP is maintained by the U.S. Department of Education and it allows you to search for accredited institutions.

Accreditation is essential because it impacts the quality of the education you receive, as well as your ability to transfer credits or apply for financial aid. Most federal financial aid programs are only available to students attending accredited institutions. Employers often prefer to hire graduates from accredited schools, and many professional licensure and certification programs also require an accredited degree.

Remember, if the institution isn't accredited, you might miss out on some great opportunities down the line, whether it's financial aid or a job.