Educational Organisations Management
Management systems standard for educational organisations demonstrating capability to support the acquisition and development of competence through teaching, learning, or research.
ISO 21001 is the management system standard for educational organisations, specifying requirements that enable schools, universities, training providers, and research institutions to demonstrate their capability to consistently deliver effective teaching, learning, and research outcomes.
The 2025 revision strengthens requirements for learner-centred approaches, inclusive education, digital learning environments, and measurable learning outcomes. It applies to educational organisations of all types and sizes, from early childhood education through higher education and professional training.
ACI-certified auditors evaluate educational management systems, assess learning outcome measurement processes, and review the adequacy of learner support and inclusive education provisions.
Attend an ACI-Approved Training Provider (ATP) course for your chosen grade level. ACI-approved courses are aligned to the examination syllabus for ISO 21001.
Examinations are administered exclusively through ACI Approved Training Providers. Foundation and Internal Auditor examinations require 70% to pass; Lead Auditor requires 65%.
Submit your application through the ACI portal with your examination result, training certificate, and relevant audit experience log. Upon approval you receive your ACI Card ID and digital certificate.
Available Grades for ISO 21001
All six ACI auditor grades are available for this scheme. Each grade has defined competence, experience, and examination requirements.
Entry-level certification for those beginning their auditing career. Suitable for individuals who have completed foundation training but have limited audit experience.
For auditors who have completed Internal Auditor training and have begun accumulating audit experience under supervision or in an internal audit role.
Full auditor grade for practitioners with demonstrated audit experience. Recognised as a competent independent auditor of management systems.
Senior grade for experienced auditors capable of leading audit teams and managing full audit programmes. The most widely recognised auditor grade internationally.
Advanced grade for highly experienced auditors demonstrating sustained performance in complex audit environments and contributions to the auditing profession.
The highest ACI designation, awarded to individuals who have made an exceptional contribution to the management system auditing profession and to the ACI community.
Find an Approved Training Provider, sit the examination, and submit your application to ACI.