Overview || Step 1: Enrollment / Self-Study || Step 2: Application / Self-Assessment
Step 3: Candidacy || Step 4: Meeting the Standards
| Application |  |
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| Application FAQs | ||
| Self-Assessment FAQs | ||
Step 2: Application/Self-Assessment
Compile evidence that demonstrates how your program meets the 10 NAEYC Early Childhood Program Standards.
After completing Self-Study, programs officially begin the accreditation process by submitting an Application in which they commit to a Candidacy due date (step 3) and demonstrate compliance with eligibility requirements. In preparation for this Candidacy due date, programs must complete a formal Self-Assessment in which specific sources of evidence are compiled to demonstrate how the program meets the 10 standards. Evidence includes portfolio evidence, observable evidence, and survey evidence.
Program Requirements:
Tasks for Programs:
- Complete the Application, selecting a due date for submission of Candidacy Materials, and pay application fee
- Document evidence that all standards are met by completing a formal Self-Assessment using the Tools for Self-Assessment within the TORCH Resource Library
- Prepare to meet all Candidacy Requirements and site visit requirements.
- Complete Candidacy Materials, attaching documentation of staff qualifications and reporting on evidence compiled during Self-Assessment
- Program-specific Candidacy Materials will be made available through the Program Record 8 weeks before the Candidacy due date selected in the Application
- Read more about Candidacy and view the Sample Candidacy Materials
Possible Outcomes:
- Application Complete: An email indicating that application is complete and confirming the Candidacy due date selected by the program will be sent to the email address provided for the program’s primary contact.
- Application Incomplete / Application Cancelled: An 'Application Incomplete' email requesting additional information or payment will be sent to the email address provided for the program’s primary contact. The program will have 30 days to respond with necessary information and/or 90 days to remit payment. If action is not taken within the established window, the status will be changed to 'ApplicationCancelled.'
- Application Not Accepted: Applications will not be accepted if the program fails to meet eligibility requirements. If the NAEYC Academy needs additional information to determine whether or not your program is meeting eligibility requirements, the program’s primary contact will be notified.
