Association for Behavior Analysis International

Tiered Model Documents

Eligibility Request

To formally initiate the recognition process, programs should complete the intent to apply and corresponding program details document. More information can be found on the Recognition Eligibility page.

• Intent to Apply 
• Program Details - bachelors/undergraduate equivalent
• Program Details - masters/graduate equivalent
• Program Details - doctoral

Guidance Documents and Resources

Please review each of the guidance documents below for additional information regarding to ABAI recognition.

• Guidance for Transitioning to the Tiered Model
• Guidance for Supervised Experiential Learning
• Guidance for Thesis or Equivalent Standard (updated August 2023)
• Guidance for Separating Programs

 Syllabus Supports

• Sample Syllabi: The Accreditation Board reviewed and published exemplary syllabi for some content areas. The purpose of this resource is to provide programs with examples that they reference rather than replicate.
• Note: These sample syllabi are published in isolation and therefore the scope and type of curriculum must be considered while reviewing the contents. Duplicating one of these sample syllabi may not serve your program well and does not necessarily guarantee the other parts of the curriculum cover the necessary requirements. Some of these courses are presented in companion with other courses and content areas, offered as electives in addition to the required hours, or are intended to fulfill only some of the required content areas hours.
• Syllabus Review: Programs transitioning to the Tiered Model standards may submit completed syllabi for review, prior to implementing it in the new curriculum and applying for recognition.

Recognition Application

All programs seeking recognition must complete the application in its entirety and provide evidence of each standard, regardless of prospective tier. Once your program is deemed eligible to apply, you will receive access to the online application. Programs can begin compiling information related to each standard using the documents below.

Note: As of September 20, 2024, these templates have been updated for clarifications and editorial improvements. Please use the current versions when preparing your application.

• i - Application instructions
• ii - Self-Study Report Certification Cover Letter
• Standard 1 - Mission
• Standard 2 - Curriculum
• Standard 3 - Outcomes Assessment
• Standard 4 - Administration
• Standard 5 - Resources
• Standard 6 - Faculty
• Standard 7 - Student Services
• Standard 8 - Public Disclosure
• Standard 9 - Degree and Non-Degree Programs
• Data Tables: This excel file may aid in the collection and organization of statistical data in preparation for application requirements. These data must be entered directly info the online application system.

Preparing for the Review Meeting

• Review Meeting - Planning and Guidelines: This document details information and preparation for the review meeting.
• Review Meeting Preparation - Checklist for Program Coordinators

Recognized Programs

• Annual Report Requirements: This document outlines the information and data required from recognized programs for the annual report.

Recognition Policies

• Policy on Degree Mills and Accreditation Mills
• Policy on Public Disclosure of Recognition Status