On July 1, 2025, the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) will officially require its accredited institutions to take a serious look at how they govern artificial intelligence. They passed both a policy and procedures related to institutional use of AI.

Yes, you read that right. AI governance has made its way into the world of accreditation.

For colleges and universities accredited by MSCHE (and those aspiring to join them), this is no longer a theoretical conversation about ChatGPT in the classroom. It’s a compliance requirement.

What the Policy Actually Says

MSCHE’s new Use of Artificial Intelligence Policy and Procedures makes a few things crystal clear:

• Governance matters. Institutions must ensure the procurement, use, and oversight of AI systems align with accreditation standards, legal obligations, and their own internal policies.

• Data and security aren’t optional. AI use needs to be folded into existing information security and data governance frameworks. No more one-off “AI experiments” running off the side of someone’s desk.

• Integrity is non-negotiable. Schools are responsible for the accuracy and reliability of every piece of information submitted to MSCHE—even if that information is generated (or assisted) by AI.

That last point should give administrators pause. Submitting materials “drafted by AI” without oversight? That’s a direct compliance risk.

When Does This Kick In?

The effective date is July 1, 2025. That means starting then, MSCHE expects institutions to be operating under these rules.

Here’s the nuance: MSCHE didn’t set a hard “drop-dead” date by which every institution must have a fully polished, laminated AI policy tucked into a binder. But starting July 1, the Commission can and will hold you accountable for showing that your use of AI is governed appropriately.

In practical terms: your next self-study or evaluation visit will need to demonstrate that your institution isn’t winging it when it comes to AI.

Why This Matters

If you’re in higher ed leadership, you’re probably already juggling accreditation standards, student outcomes, faculty contracts, budget shortfalls—the list goes on. Now add AI governance to the pile.

The difference is that this isn’t just another checkbox exercise. AI touches everything: admissions, advising, financial aid, research integrity, classroom teaching. Left unmanaged, it introduces risks to student trust, data privacy, and academic credibility. Managed well, it can unlock efficiencies and new opportunities.

MSCHE is essentially saying: if you’re going to use AI, you need to prove you’re using it responsibly.

What Should Institutions Do?

So, how should institutions start working on AI compliance?

• Develop AI governance policies aligned to accreditation standards and regulatory frameworks.

• Create AI system registries so you actually know what’s being used on campus (spoiler: it’s more than you think).

• Train faculty and staff on responsible use so policies don’t just sit on a shelf.

• Prepare accreditation evidence that demonstrates compliance with MSCHE’s requirements.

In other words: we help turn “oh no, what’s this new policy?” into “yes, we’re already ready for the site visit.”

Final Thought

The MSCHE guidance signals a broader shift: AI governance is moving from an optional best practice to a formal compliance expectation. If you’re a higher ed leader, July 2025 is closer than it looks.

Better to start now—before an evaluator asks, “So, what’s your AI policy?” and the room goes uncomfortably silent.