What Online High Schools Are Nationally Accredited?

Accreditation is a key factor in determining whether an online school is legitimate, academically rigorous, and widely recognized by colleges and employers.

This guide will explain what national accreditation means, how it compares to regional accreditation, list several reputable accredited online high schools, and help you choose the best fit for your needs.

What Is Accreditation and Why Does It Matter?

Accreditation is a quality assurance process that evaluates whether a school meets specific educational standards. In the United States, there are two primary types of accreditation for online high schools:

Regional Accreditation – Granted by one of six regional accrediting agencies, such as Cognia (formerly AdvancED), WASC, or Middle States. Regionally accredited schools are the most widely recognized and accepted by U.S. colleges and universities.

National Accreditation – Granted by nationwide accrediting bodies such as the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). Nationally accredited schools also meet quality standards, though some regionally accredited colleges may evaluate transfer credits on a case-by-case basis.

In short: if you want your diploma and credits to be recognized by universities, employers, and even the military, make sure the school’s accreditation is approved by either CHEA (Council for Higher Education Accreditation) or the U.S. Department of Education.

Key Accreditation Standards to Look For

When evaluating an online high school, confirm that it meets these key standards:

  1. Recognized Accrediting Body– Verify that the accreditor is listed by CHEA or the U.S. Department of Education.
  2. State Approval– Some states have their own approval process for online education providers.
  3. NCAA-Approved Courses– Important for student-athletes pursuing college sports.
  4. Transparent Academic Policies– Schools should clearly publish accreditation certificates, transcripts, and graduation data.
  5. Credit Transfer Compatibility– Accreditation makes it easier to transfer between schools or apply to college.

Examples of Nationally and Regionally Accredited Online High Schools

Here are several reputable accredited online high schools recognized across the United States:

These schools are nationally or regionally accredited and provide valid diplomas accepted by colleges and employers.

How to Choose the Right Accredited Online High School

Beyond accreditation, consider these factors when selecting an online high school:

  1. Course Offerings & Rigor– Does the school offer AP, honors, or dual-credit courses?
  2. Learning Format– Do you prefer self-paced study or live instruction?
  3. Student Support– Are there certified teachers, academic advisors, and guidance counselors available?
  4. Credit Transfer– Can you transfer credits easily if you switch schools or return to a traditional classroom?
  5. Tuition & Payment Plans– Check if the school offers affordable monthly tuition or scholarships.
  6. Graduation Outcomes– Look at where graduates go—college, career, or military service.
  7. Community & Engagement– Does the school offer clubs, mentorship programs, or social activities to stay connected?

Choosing an accredited online high school ensures your diploma carries real academic value and opens the door to future opportunities.
Whether you’re seeking flexibility, a safe learning environment, or an early start on college credits, nationally and regionally accredited online schools like Penn Foster, JMHS, Obridge Academy, and others can provide a legitimate path to success.