Filing a Complaint Related to Accreditation Requirements
Step 1 – Inform the Institution:
Always try to resolve your grievance on an informal basis with appropriate school administrators. Often, only clarification of a policy or process is needed to clear up a misunderstanding. Give them an adequate opportunity to resolve the matter to your and their satisfaction. Remember, an institution’s students, graduates, and employees are its best means of promotion; they want you to be satisfied.
Step 2 – Follow the Published Grievance Procedures:
If your grievance is not resolved to your satisfaction on an informal basis, your next step is to follow the formal process outlined in the institution’s published grievance procedures. Typically, you will find these procedures in the institutional catalog or student and employee handbooks.
Step 3 – Submit Written and Signed Complaint to ABHES:
After following the institution's formal grievance procedures, if you are still unsatisfied with the institution’s decision or action regarding your grievance, you may submit your complaint to ABHES by following the instructions provided below.
Note: If ABHES determines that an inquiry into the matter is not appropriate, as the complaint is unrelated to a specific accreditation requirement or is outside of the Commission’s authority, the complainant will receive written notification of this decision.
Directions for Submitting a Complaint to ABHES
1. Complete and sign the Complaint Form. Attach your reason for the complaint including the items indicated under the instructions. Click here for a copy of the ABHES Complaint Form.
2. To facilitate the review process, please email the completed form and supporting documentation to ebrennan@abhes.org. If electronic mail is not possible, mail the completed complaint form and supporting documentation to:
Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools
7777 Leesburg Pike, Suite 314 N
Falls Church, VA 22043
Step 4 – Receive Notice of the Commission’s Findings:
Upon receipt of a complaint, ABHES will follow the procedures identified below. The complainant and the institution are notified of the final disposition of the complaint.
ABHES’ Procedure for Processing Student Complaints
1. The complainant receives written notification from ABHES that the complaint has been received and processed for resolution.
2. Within 15 business days of receipt of the completed Complaint Form and supporting documentation, a copy of the complaint and a letter requesting a response to the complaint are forwarded to the institution’s director who will be required to provide ABHES with a written response to the complaint.
3. When necessary, ABHES will require the institution and complainant to submit additional information for consideration.
4. Based on review of the complaint and the institution’s response, ABHES will determine whether the institution has adequately addressed the complainant’s concerns and is in compliance with the accreditation requirements or whether further consideration and possible action by the Commission is warranted.
5. The complainant and the institution are notified of the final disposition of the complaint.
If you would like to download the entire document, or the complaint form please click below: