The Accreditation Self-Study* is used by all institutions undergoing an accreditation review, regardless of their type, size, or organization. It is a challenging internal examination consisting of a comprehensive questionnaire framed around the Characteristics of an Accreditable Museum, which is accompanied by a number of required documents. It is designed to gather detailed information about all aspects of the museum’s operations, mission, and goals to demonstrate that the museum meets the eligibility criteria, the Characteristics of An Accreditable Museum, and the Accreditation Commission’s Expectations. The self-study period is one year.

Steps and Timing in Detail:  Self-Study section

Tips From Other Museums About Working on the Self-Study

Self-Study Questionnaire Table of Contents*

List of Required Documentation to be attached to Self-Study Submission*

Instructions for assembly and submission of self-study on flash drive (required as of 7/1/11)

*Note: A complete Accreditation Self-Study consists of a detailed questionnaire plus the attachments. The Self-Study Questionnaire is not available on the web site. Accreditation Program participants can get a copy by calling 202-289-9116 or e-mailing accreditation@aam-us.org. The questionnaire is available to everyone else by purchasing the Accreditation Resource Kit from the AAM Bookstore.