Related Entities

A related entity is an entity that has an ownership interest in the institution, has a voting interest in the institution’s board, or that otherwise controls the institution.

An institution is responsible for meeting HLC requirements and for providing appropriate evidence of compliance. Additionally, as applicable, information regarding a related entity may also be relevant to an HLC evaluative process regarding an institution.

An institution seeking HLC accreditation shall disclose the existence of any related entity at the time it submits an application for seeking accreditation to HLC and as otherwise requested by HLC.

An institution shall report to HLC any anticipated changes to the nature of its relationship with a related entity as required by HLC policy or procedure. Depending on the change, the institution may be required to request approval under HLC policy INST.G.20.010 Change of Control, Structure or Organization prior to effectuating the change.

Consideration of Related Entities During Evaluative Processes

An institution shall be responsible for explaining all relevant circumstances involving a related entity that may affect its compliance with HLC requirements and for providing evidence, as appropriate, during evaluative processes to demonstrate its compliance with HLC requirements in light of the related entity. Appropriate evidence of compliance with HLC requirements may include information that is prepared by a related entity or that is otherwise only available to the institution through a related entity. However, in all such cases, the institution itself remains responsible for providing evidence of compliance to HLC through HLC processes.

Policy History

Last Revised or Edited: February 2026
First Adopted: November 2007
History:* renumbered November 2012 (former policy number 3.7); revised June 2020; edited February 2021; revised June 2023; revised and renumbered February 2026 (former policy number INST.B.10.030)
Notes:

* In the history, “revised” indicates that the HLC Board of Trustees adopted changes to the policy, and “edited” indicates that HLC staff made technical amendments or minor editorial revisions that did not require formal Board approval.