# Phase 1: Pre-accreditation Activities (Steps 1–3) If your program meets all the eligibility requirements outlined in [Section 1](/guide-to-accreditation-for-higher-ed-programs/section-1/introduction-to-accreditation.md), we recommend the following three steps as optional, preparatory activities that may increase a program’s chances to be successful in its accreditation pursuit. **Step 1. Use the Pre-Accreditation Tools and Becoming Accreditation Ready online course** The Think College National Coordinating Center developed [several tools](https://thinkcollege.net/think-college-news/tools-to-explore-the-program-accreditation-standards), including an online course that provides programs with in-depth information about the standards and helps programs prepare for the accreditation process. **Step 2. Attend a Pre-Accreditation Workshop** The IHEAC offers virtual and in-person workshops periodically throughout the year, so program directors may connect with others who are interested in program accreditation and learn more about the process. **Step 3. Conduct a Pre-Accreditation Self-Assessment** Programs determine their readiness to pursue accreditation by conducting [a pre-accreditation self-assessment](https://thinkcollege.net/think-college-news/tools-for-preparing-for-program-accreditation). Programs should consider their readiness for accreditation by reviewing status relative to each standard area and requirements for evidence (i.e., existing program data, program policy manuals, and processes). *** --- # Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.communityinclusion.org/guide-to-accreditation-for-higher-ed-programs/section-2/the-accreditation-process/phase-1-pre-accreditation-activities-steps-1-3.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.