The first step of college accreditation in the Bay Area is for the school to prepare a listing of all of the university's accomplishments, awards, and qualities. This is often considered a pre-accreditation step, but is still necessary. A copy of this report must be submitted to the accrediting body prior to an accreditation examination.
The next step is to have the institution intensively reviewed in a written form by faculty and administrative peers of the college. Their reports must address all of the general workings of the colleges and why the reviewers believe that the college qualifies for accreditation. Peers must visit the campus and write down their thoughts and impressions of the college, as well as reviewing the college's written report.
Another step to accreditation in the Bay Area is the examination of the college by a group of agents of the accreditation agency. These people come onto the campus of the college and conduct an extensive review of the workings of the college, what happens in the classes, student's impressions of the college, and how the staff are treated and paid. These individuals are volunteers are approved by the accrediting body to review the campus.
Once the examination is over, the agents will report back to the accrediting agency with their findings. The agency then meets to decide whether or not the college will receive accreditation.
The accrediting agency may require that certain steps be taken to achieve accreditation. This may require further visits and other follow-up.
If the college passes, periodic reviews are then conducted to maintain accreditation. These are similar to the initial process.