Regional accreditation is a type of institutional accreditation granted to colleges and universities in specific geographic areas. It is awarded by one of six regional accrediting bodies recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. This accreditation ensures that the institution meets certain quality standards in education, administration, and student services. Institutions with regional accreditation are often viewed as more credible and reputable. This status can affect students' eligibility for federal financial aid and the transferability of credits between schools. Additionally, regional accreditation is typically required for graduate programs and professional licensure in many fields.