Accreditation is the voluntary, ongoing process of self-evaluation and improvement. Accreditation requires a commitment to accountability, compliance, self-evaluation, and peer review.
SOME TIPS TO CONSIDER WHEN PURSUING NATIONAL ACCREDITATION:
In addition, to being a member of GAACS in good standing, the program must meet ONE of the following requirements:
a. The program must be licensed by the state licensing authority, or
b. The program must be license exempt approved by Green Apple Accreditation and in compliance with the Health and Safety Standards for License/Religious Exempt providers.
A new program may apply for accreditation once it has passed the final licensing inspection to open and the license has been approved. However, the program site must be operational and attended by children or clients before accreditation may be granted.
The foundational benefit of Green Apple Accreditation is quality. Accreditation supports organizations in evaluating their practices, strengthening systems, and committing to continuous improvement through structured self-study, peer review, and ongoing oversight.
Green Apple Accreditation utilizes qualified peer reviewers with extensive experience in behavioral health, education, and child- and family-serving programs. The accreditation process encourages reflection, accountability, and alignment with recognized best practices.
In addition to promoting quality and continuous improvement, Green Apple Accreditation may support organizations by:
Accreditation requirements and outcomes vary by jurisdiction, program type, and funding source. Organizations are encouraged to verify specific regulatory or funding requirements applicable to their operations.
How to Begin
To start the accreditation process, organizations must create an accreditation account.
Once your account is created, you will have immediate access to:
This portal is designed for organizations and individuals who already have access, need to set up an account, or are actively working through the accreditation process. From here, users can begin or continue self-study, access applicable standards, complete required forms, and upload documentation securely.
If you are preparing for accreditation, working toward renewal, or managing ongoing requirements, your GAACS account provides centralized access to the tools and resources needed at each stage of the process.
Green Apple Accreditation fees are determined based on program type, size, scope of services, number of locations, and required oversight activities. Our fee structure reflects the level of review, site visits, and ongoing compliance monitoring required.
Typical accreditation fee ranges include:
Fees may include application and review fees, site visit or inspection fees, annual or mid-cycle compliance reviews, and required reporting.
Travel and lodging expenses for assigned Peer Review Team (PRT) members are billed separately, when applicable.
Because each organization’s accreditation needs vary, final fees may be provided through an individualized Cost Estimate & Fee Disclosure during the application process.
All invoices must be paid in full at the time of application. Fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Organizations interested in accreditation should begin by creating an accreditation account and completing the required application materials.
Fee Schedule, Important Dates, & FAQs
Step 1 – Apply
Create an account in the MyGAACS Member Portal, complete the annual membership application, review your individualized cost estimate (optional), acknowledge the Financial Agreement, and submit payment.
Step 2 – Orientation Call
Participate in an Introductory Accreditation Call to review timelines, self-study expectations, and the accreditation process.
Step 3 – Self-Study
Complete the self-study and upload required documentation within the established timeframe (up to 10 months).
Step 4 – Pre-Site Review
Green Apple conducts a pre-site review (virtual or onsite) to confirm readiness for the formal accreditation visit.
Step 5 – Accreditation Site Visit
An on-site accreditation review is conducted by the assigned Peer Review Team.
Step 6 – Determination
A final accreditation decision is issued following review of the site visit report.
Step 7 – Continuous Accreditation
Accreditation is maintained through annual dues, annual reporting, mid-term reviews, and ongoing compliance requirements.
Step 8 – Re-Accreditation
Accreditation must be renewed by applying no later than 10 months prior to the expiration date to maintain accredited status.
The accreditation timeline with Green Apple Accreditation varies based on program type, organizational readiness, scope of services, and completeness of required documentation. The timeline outlined below represents a typical accreditation pathway. Timeframes are estimates and are not guaranteed.
Application & Orientation
Self-Study Phase
Pre-Site Review (Self-Study Validation)
Accreditation Review Site Visit
Final Determination
Overall Estimated Timeline
From application submission to final determination, the accreditation process typically takes:
6–12 months, depending on readiness and program complexity.
Expedited Review Timeline (If Approved)
Organizations approved for expedited review may experience a compressed timeline. Expedited review accelerates scheduling but does not reduce accreditation requirements or standards.
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