Optional Resource Visit
The ABAI Accreditation Board's optional resource visit helps programs assess their readiness to apply for accreditation. The outcome of a resource visit does not guarantee the outcome of an accreditation application. Below are the steps involved in an optional resource visit.
- The program administrator contacts the Accreditation Board to request an optional resource visit.
- After receiving approval to move forward, the program administrator sends the optional resource visit fee, which covers travel, lodging, and a per diem for the site visitor. The site visitor honorarium fee goes into effect January 1, 2023.
- The Accreditation Board submits the name of a proposed site visitor to the program administrator.
- The program administrator notifies the Accreditation Board within three days whether a conflict of interest exists between the site visitor and the program. If so, the Board selects a new site visitor and the process is repeated.
- The program administrator, Accreditation Board, and site visitor coordinate the optional resource visit schedule.
- At least two weeks before the visit, the program administrator provides the site visitor a draft self-report so that he or she may make an informed assessment of the program’s readiness to apply for accreditation.
- During the optional resource visit, the site visitor collects data by interviewing, observing, and reviewing documentation. The site visitor also meets with the program administrator, faculty, and university administrators to provide an overview of the program’s strengths and weaknesses in the context of accreditation standards.
- After the optional resource visit, the site visitor submits a report to the program administrator, copying the Accreditation Board.
Unofficial Accreditation Consultations
Institutions are free to hire consultants with first-hand experience in the ABAI Accreditation Board accreditation standards. This includes Site Visitors, Coordinators, Directors, and Chairs of programs currently accredited by the Board. However, programs should be aware these consultants do not represent the Board and can make no official statement regarding Board positions or commit the Board to any particular decision or action. Individuals who have served as consultants to programs may not serve as Site Visitors for the program. ABAI Accreditation Board Site Visitors intending to serve as a consultant must disclose this information to the ABAI Accreditation Board prior to finalizing any arrangement with a program.