The US Department of Education (USDE) is extending its allowance for institutions to use distance education modalities to accommodate students without going through the regular approval process for the duration of the COVID-19 national emergency declaration and 180 days following the date on which the emergency declaration is rescinded.
Using USDE as a guide, ACOTE is continuing the same flexibility for use of distance education modalities 180 days post-pandemic. A program that makes permanent delivery method changes during the pandemic or chooses to continue to use distance education post pandemic, must seek ACOTE approval through the eAccreditation Portal using the Substantive Change tab (see ACOTE Policy IV.B.1. Additions or Changes).
All programs are expected to remain in compliance with the 2018 ACOTE Standards.
