S. 5064 — Higher Education Accreditation Accountability Act

This section establishes new prerequisites for accrediting agencies or associations seeking recognition by the Secretary, requiring demonstration of at least 2 consecutive years of effective accreditation of an institution or program, legal establishment in the relevant jurisdiction, and enforceable standards consistent with Department criteria. It limits initial recognition to 3 years, with documentation of any new accreditations required during that period, and caps subsequent recognition at 5 years. It also prohibits institutions from changing their primary accrediting agency without Secretary approval following submission of an application containing specified notifications and supporting materials, a 30-day public comment period, and agency review.

This section applies the Act and its amendments to accrediting agencies or associations that seek initial recognition or renewal from the Secretary of Education after the date of enactment, and to institutions of higher education that seek to change their primary accrediting agency or association after that date.