Catholic Schools

At the heart of Catholic education lies a mission that inspires every action and decision to support learning and faith. Cognia Accreditation embraces this commitment by applying rigorous performance standards that elevate learning outcomes and improve schools.

Bringing standards to life through a Catholic lens

With over 100 years of unwavering commitment to Catholic schools and 1,200 current partner institutions, Cognia passionately serves and uplifts Catholic education through:

Rigorous performance standards and valuable resources

  • Alignment of our research-based performance standards with the National Standards and Benchmarks for Effective Catholic Schools (NSBECS) showcases the unique Catholic ethos and education model
  • Cognia Surveys aligned with the Catholic standards and benchmarks published by the NCEA NSBECS Advisory Council (NNAC) can provide key stakeholder insights

World-class accreditation and continuous improvement

  • A holistic three-part accreditation journey that supports continuous improvement
  • STEM or competency-based education certifications available to supplement accreditation

Dedicated expertise

  • A dedicated Catholic schools team with a deep understanding of Catholic tenets

The Cognia global network

Surrendering to Your Passion for Education and Service with Diane Starkovich, Ph.D.

Why a Diocesan School of Distinction Refuses to Take a Victory Lap

Cultivating STEM Excellence in an All-Girls Catholic High School

A testament to continuous improvement

Loyola Academy, a Catholic, Jesuit college preparatory high school on the North Shore of Chicago, formed an accreditation partnership with Cognia that has lasted for more than a century.

What I've found is that Cognia is particularly interested in schools' continuous improvement.”
Tim P. Devine
Principal
Loyola Academy, Illinois

Two is better than one

Pursue dual accreditation with Cognia and one of these three Catholic school accrediting organizations. Increase opportunities for student learning, simplify credit transfers, and ensure college acceptance of diplomas in this reciprocal arrangement.

Cognia remains a trusted partner in our mission of continuous improvement. Their leadership and review team members are experts in the field with a deep breadth of experience at all levels necessary to ensure that students are receiving a well-rounded, faith-filled education. Cognia accreditation is truly the gold standard, and I have seen firsthand the long-term positive impact it has had on schools and diocesan systems.”
Sr. Mary Grace Walsh, ASCJ, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Archdiocese of New York