NECHE Grants AUK Candidacy Status
Duhok, Kurdistan – On September 26, 2024, the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) granted candidacy status to the American University of Kurdistan (AUK). This pivotal recognition marks a significant step in AUK’s pursuit of full accreditation, underscoring its dedication to American-style academic excellence and ongoing institutional development.
The designation of Candidacy for Accreditation confirms that AUK meets the Commission’s criteria and is making meaningful progress toward accreditation with a reasonable likelihood of success. While candidacy does not guarantee eventual accreditation, credits and degrees earned during this status are considered by the U.S. Department of Education as being from an accredited institution. The University has up to five years from the date of award of candidacy to achieve full accreditation.
NECHE’s decision reflects AUK’s compliance with key criteria, including strong governance, comprehensive academic programs that parallel in design programs at peer institutions in the U.S., and an inclusive mission that prepares future leaders. Commendations from NECHE highlighted AUK’s robust student support services, safe learning environment, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
In anticipation of the next stage, AUK is scheduled for a biennial evaluation in Fall 2026, which will include updates on financial audits, budgeting, human resources, and policy implementation. The commission also emphasized the importance of AUK’s strategic financial planning to address economic challenges and ensure sustainability.
This candidacy status marks a significant milestone in AUK’s journey. It raises the profile of the institution and provides opportunities for faculty, staff, and student mobility, as well as expands opportunities for collaborations with U.S. universities. AUK looks forward to further strengthening its academic offerings and fulfilling its mission reflecting the highest American and international standards.
PUBLIC STATEMENTS CANDIDATE STATUS
AUK has been granted candidate for accreditation status by the New England Commission of Higher Education. Candidacy is not accreditation nor does it assure eventual accreditation. Candidacy is a formal affiliation with the New England Commission of Higher Education. It indicates that the institution has achieved initial recognition and is progressing toward accreditation.
Inquiries regarding an institution’s affiliation status with the Commission should be directed to: The New England Commission of Higher Education
301 Edgewater Place, Suite 210 Wakefield, MA 01880;U.S.A. Direct line to Commission offices: (781) 425-7785;E-mail: info@neche.org; Website: www.neche.org
Upon inquiry about a candidate institution, the Commission will release the date when candidacy was granted, the date of the next review, and certain other information described in the policy on Public Disclosure of Information About Affiliated Institutions.
Related: