The Antigua and Barbuda National Accreditation Board (ABNAB) has announced increases to several of its service fees, citing the need to strengthen operations and maintain the quality of services it delivers. According to Antigua.news, the revised fee structure will take effect on July 1, 2026.
The increases will affect a range of services, including accreditation statements, degree verifications, equivalence assessments, and CSME verifications. The Board says the adjustments follow an extensive internal review and are part of broader efforts to enhance service delivery, upgrade its digital platforms, and expand customer support capabilities.
ABNAB noted that it has spent nearly two decades helping to build and sustain a secure and internationally respected higher education sector in Antigua and Barbuda, and that periodic operational realignments are necessary to continue that work.
Under the new fee schedule, a Statement on Accreditation will cost EC$150 for local applicants and US$100 for international applicants. CSME Verification services will be priced at EC$150. An Equivalence Assessment will cost EC$200 locally and US$150 internationally. Verification of Degree services will now be charged at EC$150 for local applicants and US$100 for international applicants.
The Board acknowledged that the fee increases may raise concerns among stakeholders but stressed that the decision was carefully considered. It also extended thanks to local educational institutions, government ministries, and the public for their continued support and partnership.
A grace period remains in effect until June 30, allowing applications submitted before that date to be processed under the existing fee structure. This applies to applications for institutional registration, programme accreditation, and foreign credential evaluations.
The complete schedule of revised fees has been distributed to registered tertiary institutions and government ministries and is also available on ABNAB's social media platforms. All payments must be made either by direct bank transfer or by cash at the Board's office.
ABNAB serves as the country's quality assurance and accreditation authority for higher education and training institutions, responsible for ensuring that academic qualifications meet established national and international standards.