As of 2005, accreditation is required for CAPLS membership. You can be sure that schools which display the CAPLS Accreditation Logo are not only in good standing, but are committed to excellence. Accreditation under the CAPLS Quality Standards Accreditation Scheme™ (CQSAS™) is awarded to schools following a multi-step process, and after a rigorous independent site inspection. The CQSAS™ criteria cover:

Commitment & Quality - Schools demonstrate a commitment to excellence, quality and uphold the values of CAPLS as outlined in the Code of Ethics.

Operations - 4 key elements are departmental management structure and policy; compliance with legal requirements; facilities management; and human resources management. This ensures that the overall school approach to a school operation supports and enhances the learning environment.

Language Training - Student assessment and management procedures; course design; course delivery; course testing and evaluation; and student records and reporting are the key elements to ensure that the accredited schools are aligned with the principles of quality learning and ultimately ensuring student success.

Language Instructors - Schools must demonstrate that all instructors and academic staff are appropriately qualified.

Student Services & Support - Elements include: student activities, homestay programs, orientation, safety and security, student grievance policy and tuition refund policy. Schools must demonstrate that they show a certain level of care in the areas which support a positive learning experience.

Marketing & Sales - Schools demonstrate that promotional material accurately reflect the quality of program delivery and overall experience students will receive.

The CAPLS Quality Standards Accreditation Scheme™(PDF), is your assurance of quality for private language schools in Canada!