The ACICS was established in 1912 and has been recognized by the United States government since 1956 as a national accrediting council. Today, the ACICS is acknowledged by the US Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) as an authority on educational standards. 

As a national accrediting agency, ACICS focuses on schools which emphasize career training and independent education, rather than public institutions, which typically fall under the observation of regional accrediting agencies.

It is the goal of the ACICS to promote growth in education through ensured quality of practices, curriculum, and administration. Accreditation is granted primarily to degree-granting independent career schools, colleges, and institutions throughout the United States. There is evaluation and accreditation extended to US institutions abroad, as well.

Business practices are also scrutinized to guarantee the highest standard of ethical practice by higher learning schools. This commitment to student interests is designed to protect the integrity of the education system as well as the well being of learners.

ACICS operates as an organization in Virginia with offices in Washington, D.C. As is true of most accrediting agencies, ACICS works collaboratively with the US Department of Education and the state of the school under review to determine accreditation status. The three organizations act as checks on one another to ensure the highest quality evaluation.