For HLC comprehensive evaluations and other types of accreditation reviews, institutions are tasked with writing an Assurance Argument. In it, the institution demonstrates how it meets each of the Criteria for Accreditation, complete with evidence documents to support its case.

Developing an Assurance Argument through a mission-reflective lens leads to as many different approaches as there are member institutions. To help institutions better understand how to write to the Criteria and integrate evidence, HLC is excited to share sample arguments from four member institutions that have generously agreed to share their work.

The sample arguments were submitted in fall 2025 and were written to the Criteria that went in effect September 1, 2025. Each begins with a description of the institution’s process for developing its argument, as well as their advice for other institutions.

• Doane University, Standard Pathway mid-cycle comprehensive evaluation
• Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College, Standard Pathway comprehensive evaluation for reaffirmation of accreditation
• Metropolitan Community College – Kansas City, Standard Pathway comprehensive evaluation for reaffirmation of accreditation
• Saint Louis University, Open Pathway mid-cycle Assurance Review

Please note: Each institution is responsible for independently developing its own Assurance Arguments based on the institution and using evidence applicable to the institution. Providing evidence similar to the evidence provided in a sample Assurance Argument is not required, nor does it guarantee any particular outcome as to an accreditation process. 

Additional Resources for Institutions

• Institutional examples in the 2026 Resource Guide
• Assurance Argument workshop series
• Providing Evidence for the Criteria for Accreditation
• Criteria webinars