In the initial layer of a multi-level accreditation decision-making process, peer evaluators are an essential component of the peer review process. Peer evaluators visit institutions that are undergoing various sorts of accreditation reviews on-site and/or examine written reports and supporting documentation. They take part in decisions regarding preaccreditation (Candidacy) and accreditation. In light of the school's objective, peer evaluators carefully assess whether the institution complies with the accreditation standards stated in USDOE's Standards for Accreditation, Requirements of Affiliation, policies and procedures, and applicable federal regulatory requirements.