HLC recognizes that change at institutions of higher learning is constant, and it supports institutional efforts to improve educational quality. Depending on the type of change an institution plans to make—expanding its academic offerings, opening a new location, changing its mission, etc.—it may be required to apply for prior HLC approval or notify HLC of the change.

When prior approval is required, the institution must submit an application describing the change. The application will be reviewed by HLC staff or peer reviewers (depending on the complexity of the change), and an HLC decision-making body will take final action to approve or deny the request. Some changes also require a follow-up review after approval. This process ensures that institutions continue to meet HLC's standards as they evolve and grow.

Note: See HLC's Dues and Fees Schedule for costs associated with substantive change.

Changes Requiring Prior HLC Approval or Notification

Federal Regulations: HLC has provided guidance on properly declaring program activity to comply with U.S. Department of Education regulations on substantive change that went into effect on July 1, 2020.

Consortial Arrangements: While HLC does not specifically review consortial arrangements, institutions may still be required to notify HLC or obtain prior approval based on other substantive changes related to a consortial arrangement.

For example, an institution must obtain prior approval to offer any new academic program that represents a significant departure from its prior academic programs, even if the program in question is offered solely through a consortial arrangement.

If an institution provides instruction through a consortial arrangement at a location separate from its main campus and it is possible for students at that location to complete 50% or more of an academic program the institution offers, the institution must apply for approval of that site as an additional location. (See HLC's Glossary for the definition of consortial arrangement, academic program and additional location.) This is the case even if, among the consortial partners involved, the institution's instruction at that location accounts for less than 50% of the academic program.