Member institutions are required to submit a substantive change request to the Department for approval prior to implementing certain types of modifications, in line with federal regulations, the Commission's Substantive Change Policy, and the Commission's Substantive Change Procedures.

An institution is accountable for adhering to the Commission's Substantive Change Policy and securing clearance prior to implementation. Substantive changes that are made without first receiving the Commission's permission threaten the institution's accrediting status and can make it ineligible for Title IV financing.