How can I tell if a university is regionally accredited?

I'm looking at different universities and want to make sure they're legit and accredited properly. How can I confirm if a university has regional accreditation? Are there any signs or official lists I should check?

One of the most straightforward ways to confirm if a university or college is regionally accredited is to use the U.S. Department of Education's Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs. This database provides comprehensive information about accredited institutions, including the accrediting agencies they're affiliated with. After finding your institution in the search, look under 'Accreditor' to see if they're regionally accredited.

Regional accreditors include: the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Higher Learning Commission, Northwest Accreditation Commission for Primary and Secondary Schools, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges.

Another method is going directly to the website of the particular regional accrediting body listed above and looking up the school. They usually maintain databases or lists of accredited institutions.

As a word of caution, ensure to cross-verify the information from the university’s website with these sources. Sometimes, universities claim to have accreditation from agencies that are not recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, and thus, degrees from those institutions may not be recognized by other universities or certain employers.