How To Apply

Applications to participate in the Expansion Project are coordinated and managed by the Council on Accreditation (COA). There are two key components to the application process: first, the initial online application, and second, the Effectiveness Rating and Improvement System (ERIS) assessment. The initial online application process verifies that your program holds a current state license and is located in a qualifying ZIP code. You also have the option of uploading documentation of program accreditation and participation in your state’s Quality Rating System. Below you’ll find step by step instructions to help you get started with the initial online application.

After you’ve submitted your initial online application, COA will undertake a desk review of your online application and all electronically uploaded documents. After this initial review of your application, some programs will continue with the second component of the application process: the ERIS assessment. Please click on Project Guidelines for more information about completing the application process, understanding the ERIS assessment tool, and site visit information.

Getting Started: The Initial Online Application

Step 1:     Navigate to the Home page and enter the ZIP code for each child care program for which you are applying, and click “Search.”

Step 2:     If your ZIP code is currently eligible to participate in the Expansion Project, you will be prompted to verify that you are state licensed and/or regulated. If you meet all of the eligibility criteria, please fill out the “Request An Account” form for each program. COA will be in touch with you within 2 business days to provide you with a username and password for the next steps of the application process.

If your ZIP code is eligible but you are not state licensed or regulated, you may return to the site when you obtain the proper documentation. If your ZIP code is ineligible to participate in the Expansion Project at this time, please fill out the “Notify Me When My ZIP Code Becomes Eligible” form for each program. COA will be in touch with you if your program in a ZIP code becomes eligible to participate.

Step 3:     Once you receive your username and password, sign in to your account and complete the Expansion Project Application. The completed application and COA’s review determines your status and the next step(s) in the process. To learn more about the next steps in the process, please review the Project Guidelines.