Certification
Education & Management ServicesN4A Certification Programs
The purpose of program certification is to verify that an academic support unit can provide a basic set of services to student-athletes as outlined in the N4A guidelines and Code of Ethics. Certification is available for both two-year and four-year colleges and universities. Candidate programs will complete a self-study of its operations and undergo a site review of their program.
If you are interested in obtaining program certification:
- Determine eligibility using the proficiency requirements
- Complete and submit a notification form
- Compile selected Pre-Certification Visit Information pertaining to your academic support operations
- Schedule a site visit with a N4A consultant
Read N4A’s Announcement of its Certification Program.
Please note there is a fee for this service; review the FAQs for more information.
FAQs
Why should we apply for certification?
Obtaining certification is an opportunity to demonstrate your academic support program has the knowledge, practice and procedures in place to assist student-athletes toward the goal of graduation. The N4A Program Certification assists institutions by identifying the standards that are indicative of programs who maintain institutional control.
Who is eligible for certification?
An academic support unit at a two-year or four-year school, that provides a set of services to student-athletes, as outlined in N4A guidelines, is eligible to submit a notification form. Two-year colleges that have programs that serve all students, to include student-athletes, may also submit a notification form. Click here for N4A guidelines and proficiency requirements.
Why was this certification program established?
The N4A Certification Program was established to raise the professional standard among academic support programs and encourage a broader range of understanding of best practices and successful operations.
Are there different levels of certification?
There is only one level of certification; however each academic support program will need to meet the specified requirements set by the N4A, for proficiency in the corresponding intercollegiate athletics setting. Click here for N4A guidelines and proficiency requirements.
How does the certification process work?
After submitting a notification form, the candidate compiles information from the Pre-Certification Visit Information list. Afterwards a consultant is sent to complete an onsite review. The consultant will write a report on their findings and will make the appropriate recommendations either for certification, conditional certification or denial. The program certification remains effective for a ten year period and may be renewed thereafter.
To access the notification form, click here.
To review the ‘Pre-Certification Visit Information’
Do we have to be members of N4A to apply for certification?
N4A membership is encouraged but is not a requirement of program certification.
When do I have to submit my notification form/application?
Notification forms are accepted, year-round on a rolling basis.
To access the notification form, click here.
Who manages the program?
The N4A Program Certification is managed by the National Association of Academic Advisors for Athletics. In the administration of the program, N4A is assisted by a number of experienced and trained consultants.
What does it cost?
The fee for two-year colleges is $1000, plus the costs of lodging, travel and meals for one site visitor. The fee for all other colleges and universities is $2000, plus the costs of lodging, travel and meals for one site visitor.
How long does the entire process take?
The process varies from school to school, but typically the certification process takes between 60 to 90 days once all necessary paperwork is in.
What is the Pre-Certification Visit Information list?
This is a list of information that should be compiled and reviewed by candidates before the consultant ‘s onsite visit is scheduled. To review the ‘Pre-Visit Certification Visit Information’
A request for appeal can be submitted to the Certification Appeal Committee. All relevant materials, including but not limited to: documents, materials, and reports, from the certification process, will be provided to the committee for review. A written request for appeal must be received by the N4A National Office within 15 days of the issuance of the consultant’s report/recommendation.
What are the benefits of certification?
Certification demonstrates that your program uses industry-respected standards and best practices. Certification can improve overall performance, remove uncertainty and widen market
opportunities. Certification helps to demonstrate to stakeholders that your support program for student-athletes is run effectively. Promoting your certified program to students, faculty, prospective students and other stakeholders can also provide significant benefits to your college or university.
What happens if my program doesn’t pass?
Conditional certification may be granted; contingent upon the implementation of specific program changes.
Can our program certification be lost or suspended?
Yes, if it is shown that the academic support program significantly changes its mode of operation or is reported to be in violation of existing policies, procedures of its athletic association.