Professional Practices and Ethical Standards

The American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers (AACRAO) is concerned with the advancement of postsecondary education and the standards and conduct of those professionals who are involved at all levels. To provide guidance to these professionals, AACRAO has adopted the following principles which exemplify those qualities and attributes that distinguish members of the association both past and present. AACRAO members shall:

• Believe in and be loyal to the philosophy and goals of the profession and the institutions we serve.
• Understand and respect the civil and human rights and responsibilities of all individuals while supporting and protecting the principles of due process and confidentiality.
• Adhere to the principles of nondiscrimination and equality without regard to race, color, creed, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion or national origin.
• Represent an institutional or association perspective without vested interests or personal bias.
• Initiate policies that support the goals of our profession.
• Assert ourselves when policies or practices are proposed that seem to be contrary to the philosophy and goals of our professions and institutions.
• Participate in and contribute to professional activities and their development to ensure effective and efficient management of resources, data and personnel.
• Communicate an accurate interpretation of our institutions' admissions criteria, educational costs, financial aid availability and major offerings to assist prospective students and parents in making an informed decision.
• Assist in improving educational standards and methods of evaluation at the institutional, state, and federal level so that grading is meaningful in reflecting the academic achievement of students.
• Understand and appreciate the dynamics of interpersonal relationships when dealing with students, parents, faculty, administration, associates and the public.
• Develop and implement effective management systems that will ensure integrity, confidentiality, security of institutional records and provide an accurate interpretation of such information.
• Dedicate ourselves to the ideals and principles that will enable students to develop their talents and interests to become responsible citizens and contributors to the improvement of society.
• Practice honesty and integrity in our professions and in our lives.