When there is a question regarding eligibility, ACCME reserves the right to make decisions on the issue, and has a formal process in place to do so.

Relevant Downloads:
The System of Accreditation (PDF)


The Pre-Application Process
The first step in becoming accredited is completion of a "Pre-application for ACCME Accreditation" ("Pre-application"). The purpose of the Pre-application is to provide you with an opportunity to explain your eligibility for ACCME accreditation, as well as to demonstrate that your organization has mechanisms in place to fulfill ACCME's Essential Areas and Elements and Accreditation Policies ("Accreditation Requirements") in the CME activities that you will produce.

Once your organization has completed and submitted to ACCME the Pre-application and $500 Pre-application fee, ACCME will notify your organization whether it is eligible to continue with the initial accreditation process. This notification is in writing, and is usually sent within four weeks of receipt of your Pre-application. ACCME staff review Pre-applications as quickly as possible, and will notify you immediately once a decision has been made regarding your eligibility to continue with the initial accreditation process.

Relevant Downloads
Pre-Application for ACCME Accreditation (Word)

The Initial Self Study Process
If your organization is deemed eligible to continue with the initial accreditation process, you will complete and submit an Initial Self Study Report for ACCME accreditation, including payment of the $5,000 Initial Accreditation Fee. Once all required information and payment has been received, the ACCME will schedule your survey. First-time applicants must fulfill two requirements with respect to their survey: they must have a survey at their administrative offices and have a CME activity reviewed. There is no prescribed order for the two requirements, but the first survey must take place prior to Provisional Accreditation, and both requirements must be completed prior to Accreditation.

The interview provides an opportunity for your organization to meet with two ACCME volunteer surveyors to discuss the objectives of your CME program, and your approach to compliance with ACCME Requirements. The surveyors will clarify any questions they may have about your application, and will also expect to discuss your organization's ongoing plans for improvement as they relate to your practice of CME. You can expect your surveyors to ask thoughtful questions and to listen carefully to what your organization has to say about its CME program. You must not expect nor ask your surveyors to provide advice or consultation about ways that you can improve your practice of CME.