ABOUT THE  Council of Higher Education Quality Standards ™  

About CHEQS

The CHEQS Commission and Quality Standards Board was founded in 1996 as part of the Chartered Leadership Institute, focusing on certification standards and business principles. CHEQS operates as a global licensing and accreditation body, recognizing top educational programs worldwide. Additionally, CHEQS was a charter signatory member of the US Department of Education-recognized QG Quality Group MOA Standards Agreements.

CHEQS offers recognition to qualifying educational institutions and individuals who apply for membership to the CHEQS Commission.

We utilize ISO 29990, ISO 21001, ISO 29993, and ISO 9001 Standards globally as certifying standards to recognize training and educational bodies. CHEQS is an approved accreditation body for ISO 29993 non-formal training certification, extending this accreditation to our partners offering relevant and comprehensive courses that meet certification requirements.

When a program is approved by CHEQS, it becomes an Accredited Professional Development Body, offering joint education and certification programs. These programs help learners specialize in subjects using TCO (Terminal Course Objectives) that align with industry standards.

CHEQS Accreditation Standards

Quality standards in professional skills certification are essential to ensure certifications are reputable, reliable, and recognized as credible indicators of competence. While standards may vary by industry and certifying body, the following CHEQS quality standards apply:

1. Accreditation: Certification programs should be accredited by recognized accrediting bodies or government agencies to verify adherence to quality standards.

2. Validity: The certification exam and assessment process should measure the skills and knowledge relevant to the profession.

3. Reliability: The exam should produce consistent results for test-takers of the same competence level.

4. Fairness: The process should be fair and unbiased, providing equal opportunities for all candidates.

5. Clear Learning Objectives: Defined competencies that outline the skills and knowledge expected of candidates.

6. Job Task Analysis: Regular analysis to ensure certification aligns with industry demands.

7. Assessment Development: Rigorous procedures for developing exams and assessment tools.

8. Standard Setting: Transparent and valid processes for setting passing scores.

9. Security Measures: Strict measures to protect exam integrity and prevent cheating.

10. Candidate Eligibility: Clear criteria to determine if candidates meet qualifications.

11. Recertification Requirements: Processes to maintain certification and ensure skills remain current.

12. Continued Professional Development: Encouraging resources for ongoing professional growth.

13. Ethics and Code of Conduct: A code outlining expected professional conduct.

14. Governance and Oversight: Effective oversight to ensure compliance with quality standards.

15. Transparency: Open disclosure of certification policies and procedures.

16. Appeals and Grievances: A fair process for candidates to appeal decisions or address grievances.

17. Public Awareness: Promoting understanding of the certification’s value.

18. Continuous Improvement: Regular program evaluation and improvements.

19. Industry Recognition: Collaborating with industry stakeholders to gain recognition.

20. International Alignment: Ensuring alignment with international standards for global recognition.

Functions of Accreditation and Quality Standards

1. Verifying that institutions or programs meet established standards.

2. Assisting prospective students in identifying acceptable institutions.

3. Helping institutions determine the acceptability of transfer credits.

4. Identifying institutions and programs for investment of public and private funds.

5. Protecting institutions from harmful internal and external pressures.

6. Stimulating self-improvement in weaker programs and raising standards across institutions.

7. Involving faculty and staff in institutional evaluation and planning.

8. Establishing criteria for professional certification and licensure.

9. Providing considerations for determining eligibility for federal assistance.