Next Generation Accreditation
Freedom to Innovate. A Framework to Succeed.
NGA by MSA is professional peer review for the purpose of growth and improvement — not a pass-fail exam.
We provide:
A competency-based process that supports you to succeed
A structured yet flexible process to refine vision, assess practice, and plan next steps
Centered on your mission and learners so that your identity sharpens
Clear standards in leadership, governance, student well-being, resources, and teaching & learning
Lean tools and short templates that respect your limited time
Real Guidance,
Real Global Impact.
117
Countries where we accredit schools & systems
3200+
Schools, systems and LSP
2M+
Students supported globally
What MSA Accreditation Unlocks for Your School
Accreditation isn't just a credential — it's a catalyst for growth, trust, and sustainability. Here's what schools gain.
1.Build Trust with Prospective Families
Create assets that explain your unique model in plain words, backed by external review. Increase confidence and referrals.
3.Create A Resilient Financial Model
Accreditation is often a requirement for school voucher or ESA eligibility. Access to these funds fosters a sustainable financial model.
2.Have Clarity of Identity & Direction
Your unique mission, model, and measures take shape as a clear narrative that guides program design and day-to-day decision making.
4.Offer Post-Graduate Pathways
An American diploma and verified records widen your graduates' routes to colleges, employers, and training programs worldwide.
& more!
What Sets NGA Apart
Like the innovative schools we serve, MSA is redefining the accreditation landscape. Here's how we stand apart.
MSA Accreditation
Lean, fast, and focused. Many schools finish in 14 to 18 months.
Implementation framework. Self-study doubles as a tool to create or upgrade policies and one-pagers that bring real value.
Standards that tell your story. Use MSA standards to show who you are and how you work.
Lean-team friendly. Clear tasks, right-sized workload, no extra staff needed.
Staffed by former school leaders. We've been in your shoes.
Alternative Accreditors
18 to 24 months or more
Documentation mainly for the accreditor's files. Long reports and jargon.
Prove how you fit their preset model.
Built for larger teams and heavier lifts.
Prior school leadership experience is inconsistent.
How Does The Process Work
To earn accreditation, schools progress through three key stages:
Your Questions, Answered
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Between 14–18 months, depending on start date. Accreditations are awarded in April and November.
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Don't worry! If the process reveals things to update or fix, we'll let you know so you can address them. We use a high standard & high support model.
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Seven years. Six years in, your liaison will reach out to begin reaccreditation.
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You'll enact the Strategy & Action Plan developed during the process. One year before expiration, you'll begin reaccreditation — another self-study and visit, but no application/candidacy period.
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1) Paying annual dues. 2) Submitting a mid-term report midway through your accreditation with an update on your Strategy & Action Plan progress.
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NGA Dues and fues depend on several factors, like size of school, if your’e a system. See the complete breakdown here!
What Our Schools Are Saying
Ready to Get Started?
Join 3,200+ schools in 117 countries that trust MSA to guide their journey of wise change. Your students deserve it — and so do you.
Have Questions?
Learn More about NGA by MSA by diving into more details here.
www.msa-cess.org