Membership Designed to Strengthen Your School Community
You do it all, but that doesn’t mean you have to do it alone.
SAIS membership connects schools with a trusted community of leaders, accreditation support, professional learning, and strategic resources designed to strengthen independent schools and the people who lead them.
Our membership process is designed to help schools thoughtfully prepare for successful participation in the SAIS accreditation journey.
Most schools complete the candidacy process within 6-12 weeks.
Step 1:
Self-Analysis of Candidacy Criteria
Schools seeking SAIS membership begin by completing a self-analysis of the candidacy criteria. These criteria reflect the foundational standards expected of schools pursuing SAIS accreditation and help determine readiness for the membership process.
Step 2:
Submit Full Membership Application
After SAIS has reviewed your candidacy criteria self-analysis, you may be invited to complete the full SAIS membership application, which includes submitting documentation and paying the $500 non-refundable fee. Our team is available to help schools navigate the application and documentation process.
Step 3:
SAIS Review and Follow-Up
Our team carefully reviews submitted materials to ensure schools are positioned for success in the accreditation process. If clarification or additional information is needed, we will work directly with your school throughout the review period.
Step 4:
Candidate Membership Status
Schools accepted into candidacy become candidate members of SAIS while completing the accreditation process. All schools are considered candidates until accreditation is received from SAIS, which must occur within three years.
Step 5: Accreditation Preparation & School Visit
After the dues payment has been received, schools will submit their request for participation in the accreditation process and request an on-site SAIS Accreditation Workshop.
Frequently Asked Questions
We welcome a wide range of independent schools seeking accreditation and professional partnership. Eligible schools typically include PK-12 independent schools, day schools, boarding schools, faith-based schools, international schools, and specialized learning communities that align with the SAIS mission and standards.
Schools receive personalized guidance throughout the candidacy process, including access to SAIS staff support, accreditation resources, professional learning opportunities, and connections with experienced peer schools and leaders. Our goal is to help schools prepare thoughtfully and confidently for successful accreditation participation.
Yes, we work with international schools that meet eligibility requirements and are committed to continuous improvement through the accreditation process. International member schools benefit from the same collaborative support, professional learning, and accreditation guidance provided to all SAIS schools.
If a school is not fully prepared to begin candidacy, SAIS will provide feedback and recommendations to help identify next steps and areas for development. Schools are encouraged to apply when they are ready, and many use this preparation period to strengthen systems, leadership practices, and strategic planning.
Most schools complete the candidacy process within approximately 6-12 weeks. The full accreditation journey varies depending on each school’s readiness, planning timeline, and accreditation cycle, but we provide support throughout every stage of the process.
The application process is typically led by the head of school or a designated senior administrator who can coordinate across leadership teams and oversee accreditation readiness. Many schools also involve trustees and division leaders to support collaboration and communication throughout the process.
Our team is happy to help guide your school through the process. Contact our Accreditation team.
Ready to Begin?
We look forward to learning more about your school and supporting your accreditation journey.