First, The Self-Study - The AMS Accrediting Commission believes that students benefit from being in a school that knows itself thoroughly.

AMS Accreditation is a voluntary process undertaken by school that are committed to continuous improvement. The first step is a rigorous self-study and documentation process that begins with the articulation of a philosophy of education and an analysis and description of the school community. This is followed by an appraisal of the school's offerings and a self-evaluation of the school's organization, personnel, facilities, and instruction. The process is one of discovery and the attainment of knowledge necessary for planning with confidence, and results in a strategic plan that fosters continuous school improvement.

Second, An Objective Evaluation - The AMS Accrediting Commission believes that students benefit when their school undergoes objective evaluation.

Having completed an accepted self-study, the school is visited and evaluated by a team of experienced educators named by AMS. The validators verify the findings of the self-study and offer evaluating judgments, both recommendations and commendations to the school community.

Third, An Action Plan - The AMS Accrediting Commission believes that students benefit from being in a school that constantly strives for improvement.

A school is required to provide a plan for its further development and improvement. A plan becomes strategic when it includes timelines, resources (both human and financial), and tools to measure success.

Fourth, Accreditation - The AMS Accrediting Commission believes that students benefit if their school continues to be actively involved with other quality schools both to improve itself and to participate in the national movement to improve education.

AMS Accreditation is granted if the self-study, evaluation, and planning reports reveal that the school meets the standards for accreditation. During this time, through networking with other quality schools, periodic progress reporting, and participation in other school improvement events, accredited schools work toward their own improvement and the improvement of other schools.

Fifth, Continous Evaluation - The AMS Accrediting Commission believes that a quality, accredited school must show stability and continuous improvement.

AMS Accredited Schools submit an Annual Report to AMS, which documents continuing compliance with AMS Standards and reports on the status of the school's implementation of the strategic plan.