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Enrollment in Self-Study is the first of four steps to achieving NAEYC Accreditation. The self-study process offers a structured approach for program improvement that considers all of the necessary components of a high-quality early childhood program. It is an essential step toward achieving NAEYC Accreditation, but it is also available to programs that do not expect to proceed with the other steps toward NAEYC Accreditation in the near future. As a result, some of the eligibility requirements (serving at least 10 children, located in the U.S., and licensed or regulated) do not apply for enrollment, but must be met at Step 2 (Becoming an Applicant).
By enrolling in Self-Study, programs receive the Self-Study Kit for Program Quality Improvement through NAEYC Early Childhood Program Accreditation. Programs also become part of a larger community engaged in program quality improvement and will receive regular communications from the NAEYC Academy regarding the new accreditation system, including technical updates as additional information becomes available.
To enroll in Self-Study, download the appropriate enrollment form, and mail a completed form and the enrollment fee to
There are two types of enrollment forms: for single-site and multi-site programs.
Single-site programs are those in which all classrooms of eligible age groups and administrative offices are at one site.
Multi-site programs may enroll as a single entity when the following conditions are met: (1) each site has the same program administration, budget and public identity; (2) they are located in not more than 3 sites that are within 5 miles of each other; (3) the second and third sites must each serve fewer than 60 children. When a program applies as a multi-site program, all sites must be visited during the same on-site assessment, and one accreditation decision will be made.
A part of a program may only be excluded when it serves ineligible groups (e.g., school-age children or parent education classes in which parents attend with their children) or it has a separate administrator, separate budget, separate license and separate name.
Enrollment fees are based on the total number of children served in each eligible age group. The total number must include all children enrolled in these age groups, not the daily or hourly capacity. If the program serves an eligible age group, it must be included (with the exception of preschool programs in public schools that are not required to enroll their kindergarten classrooms).
Note: Programs are obligated to provide truthful information on their enrollment forms. The award of NAEYC Accreditation is null and void if it is determined that false information was knowingly submitted to the NAEYC Academy at any time during the accreditation process.
