Florida International University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master's, educational specialist, and doctorate degrees. Florida International University also may offer credentials such as certificates and diplomas at approved degree levels. Questions about the accreditation of Florida International University may be directed in writing to the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097, by calling (404) 679-4500, or by using information available on SACSCOC’s website (www.sacscoc.org).
The University maintains the standards specified by SACSCOC "Principles of Accreditation" and notifies SACSCOC of any substantive changes.
Every ten years a university's accreditation must be reaffirmed. FIU was first accredited in 1974, and reaffirmed in 1980, 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2021. The next reaffirmation is 2031.
For information about the SACSCOC or the accreditation process, visit the SACSCOC website.
Institutional Accreditation Liaison
Dr. Jennifer Doherty-Restrepo
Associate Vice Provost for Academic Planning and Accountability
Phone: 305-348-6085
The institutional accreditation liaison, serves as a representative between the President and the SACSCOC. She serves as the contact person for the commission staff, helps units prepare notifications of substantive change, coordinates SACSCOC visiting committees, disseminates information about accreditation, and answers questions from the public and the university community.
Higher Learning Commission
Florida International University (FIU) is seeking accreditation by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is undergoing a three-step, structured sequence of reviews aligned with HLC’s Criteria for Accreditation, Eligibility Requirements, Assumed Practices, and Federal Compliance Requirements. FIU completed the first step in this process (submission of the initial application) on March 23, 2026, and expects to complete the second and third steps within 18 to 24 months. During this time, FIU remains committed to transparency, continuous improvement, and full alignment with the standards and expectations of both the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and the HLC.