Who we are
Accreditation built on four commitments.
ASC was established to deliver accreditation around four objectives: integrity and trust, trade facilitation, linkages between markets, and international acceptance of certification, inspection, and testing performed by competent conformity assessment bodies.
We promote quality in both directions: enabling manufacturers and service providers to apply recognized standards, and equipping buyers to demand, and verify, quality in what they procure.
What we do
ASC accredits conformity assessment bodies and training organizations, and administers an auditor registration scheme. ASC does not perform certification and does not own or operate any certification body, a separation that protects impartiality. Applications are accepted from bodies anywhere in the world, regardless of size, location, or affiliation.
Our vision
To be the most trusted independent accreditation body in the world, continuously improving the systems, methods, and competencies that make quality verifiable.
Our mission
To lead in accreditation processes that build confidence and value for stakeholders worldwide, providing competent, impartial, and reliable accreditation with professional, value-added service.
How we operate
ASC operates in accordance with ISO/IEC 17011:2017, with published impartiality, confidentiality, conflict-of-interest, anti-bribery, and complaints-and-appeals policies, all downloadable from our public documents portal. See also Governance & impartiality.
The process
How ASC accreditation works.
Application & document review
Submit your application, the documentation listed in the applicable ASC accreditation criteria, and the application fee. An ASC accreditation officer reviews your submission for completeness and confirms the requested scope.
Assessment team assignment
ASC matches an assessment team of quality system, technical, and subject-matter experts to your scope. Conflicts of interest are screened under ASC's published Conflict of Interest Policy before any assessor is assigned.
On-site assessment
The team assesses your management system and technical competence against the accreditation criteria, including witnessed activity where the standard requires it, and issues a written assessment report with any nonconformities.
Independent decision
After nonconformities are closed, an independent decision function, separate from the assessment team, reviews the file and makes the accreditation decision, as required by ISO/IEC 17011:2017.
Surveillance & renewal
Accredited bodies are listed in the public directory and undergo periodic surveillance. Full reassessment is required for renewal every accreditation cycle; suspension and withdrawal rules are published in advance.
Questions about ASC?
We answer directly, including questions about our recognition status.