Which statement best describes AAALAC accreditation?

• A. It is mandatory for all institutions
• B. It is required only for funded research
• C. It is a voluntary process
• D. It has no impact on animal care standards

Answer: (C)

AAALAC accreditation is a voluntary process. Institutions choose to pursue accreditation to demonstrate they meet high standards for the care and use of laboratory animals. The process involves an independent, on-site evaluation of the institution’s animal care program—covering veterinary care, husbandry, staff training, standard operating procedures, and oversight by the IACUC—and a review of how well they align with the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals and applicable laws. If the review is favorable, accreditation is granted and the institution undergoes periodic re-evaluations to maintain it. Because it is voluntary, there is no legal requirement that every institution obtain accreditation, though some funders or oversight bodies value or require it, and pursuing accreditation often strengthens overall animal care standards. The accreditation’s impact comes from the rigorous criteria and ongoing scrutiny it enforces, not from being mandatory or limited to funded research.