Paralegal School Accreditation
Paralegal School Accreditation: What Is It
and Does It Really Matter?
Do a quick search on paralegal schools, and soon you're likely to be wondering about paralegal school
accreditation -- what is it, exactly, and does it really matter?
 Accreditation means that the school or program has met certain minimum standards, as defined by the
accrediting agency. In essence, it's a "stamp of approval". Minimum standards vary based on the agency or
association giving the accreditation, so be sure you understand exactly which accreditations your paralegal
program has earned.
Generally speaking, there are distinct benefits from
attending accredited paralegal schools!
Why Should You Attend an Accredited Paralegal School?
You can be confident that the program meets certain standard quality criteria: If you
come across an accrediting agency that you're not familiar with, take the time to read what they look for in a
program. It will make you a more educated consumer!
You may be eligible for federal financial aid: If the program you attend is accredited by
an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, you will likely be eligible for federally funded
financial aid programs. While the U.S. government is not the only source of educational funds, it is definitely an
important source of low-cost loans. If you think you'll need financial aid, be sure to check that your program
qualifies!
Your diploma may be more attractive if you decide to get another degree in the future:
some schools will only recognize degrees and/or course credits from accredited institutions (normally those
accredited by agencies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education). While going back to school (again!) may
seem like a distant possibility right now, going to an accredited program may give you greater flexibility down the
road.
Some employers prefer graduates from accredited paralegal schools: they see accreditation
as a sign that the program (and its graduates) meet certain minimum standards. Some employers actually spell it out
in job postings.
What are the Different Types of Paralegal School Accreditation?
ABA-Approval:
260 out of 1,000 paralegal programs are currently ABA-approved. To be listed
as an ABA-approved paralegal school, the paralegal program must complete a self-evaluation report and also
participate in an on-site evaluation which ensures the program complies with ABA guidelines.
It's important to realize that ABA approval is voluntary...so just because a program isn't ABA approved does not
automatically mean it's not a good quality program! However, ABA approval means it meets some pretty stringent
criteria. The ABA does not currently accredit online programs.
See a list of ABA-approved paralegal
schools
Read more details on the ABA-approval process for paralegal schools
State Bar Association:
Some state or local bar associations provide accreditation to paralegal schools in their areas.
Regional Accreditation:
A variety of regional agencies offer accreditation for paralegal education. Your best bet is to look for agencies
that are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This is important because these agencies will have met
certain guidelines, and also because you may then qualify for Federal financial aid programs.
Access the database of U.S. Department of Education
approved accrediting agencies
Other Forms of Accreditation:
other agencies may provide distance and online program accreditation, for example. It is important to do your
homework and understand the accreditation criteria being used! Also, a wise move would be to check local job
postings to see which, if any, accreditations employers are requiring. It's important to get the right education to
get the best jobs!
Beyond paralegal school accreditation: get more advice on choosing a
paralegal school
Learn about different paralegal degree programs
Get more information on paralegal certificate programs
Beyond your degree: understand paralegal
certification
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