Credentialing glossary

The CredFlow Credentialing Glossary is a set of plain-English definitions of the credentialing, certification, and accreditation terms that certifying bodies and licensing organizations run into every day - from NCCA accreditation and ISO/IEC 17024 to recertification, CE credits, and continuing competence. Each entry is written to be accurate, vendor-neutral, and easy to quote.

Credentialing has its own vocabulary, and the same words mean slightly different things across programs. These definitions are kept high-level and accurate so program staff, board members, and applicants can get a clear answer fast - without diving into a standards document. Browse the terms below.

NCCA accreditation

Accreditation of a certification program against the NCCA Standards, offered by the accrediting body of the Institute for Credentialing Excellence (ICE).

ISO/IEC 17024

The international standard setting general requirements for bodies that operate certification of persons.

Recertification

The process of renewing an existing certification after its initial award, within a defined cycle.

Continuing education credits (CE / CM points)

Units earned for completing approved professional-development activities to maintain a certification.

Continuing competence

The ongoing demonstration that a certified professional remains competent over time - broader than CE hours alone.

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