Frequently Asked Questions

What is IFSAC?
IFSAC is the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress. We are a peer driven, self governing system that accredits both fire service certification programs and higher education fire-related degree programs. IFSAC is a nonprofit organization authorized by the Board of Regents of Oklahoma State University as a part of the College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology. The IFSAC Administrative Offices are located on the Oklahoma State University campus in Stillwater, Oklahoma. The administrative staff consists of the IFSAC Manager, a Unit Assistant and Student Staff Technicians.

What is the difference between certification and accredited?
To accredit is to give official authorization to or approval of; to provide with credentials; to recognize or vouch for as conforming to a standard; to recognize (an educational institution) as maintaining standards that qualify its graduates for admission to higher or more specialized institutions or for professional practice. Accredit is often confused with certify. Accreditation involves the program or institution itself while certification is a function of the program or institution and applies to individuals.

Is my fire department accredited?
IFSAC does not accredit fire departments. Fire department accreditation is offered through the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI). The Commission has developed criteria through the joint efforts of the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and the International City Management Association (ICMA).

How does my entity get accredited?
Within five (5) years from application approval, an entity shall have at least one (1) level of certification accredited. Applications for accreditation shall be submitted along with appropriate documentation to IFSAC Administration.

A site team of three (3) trained personnel, including one (1) experienced site visitor or member of the Certificate Assembly Board of Governors, examines all aspects of the applicant certification system in relation to the Criteria for Certificate Accreditation. Upon completion of the site visit, the team prepares a report which is submitted for recommendation to the Certificate Assembly Board of Governors.

What kind of training does IFSAC offer?
IFSAC does not provide training of any sort. It is the responsibility of IFSAC to accredit certificate programs.

How do I obtain my transcripts and verify any college credit that I have received through the courses I have taken?
IFSAC Administration does not maintain transcripts or earned credits for courses, degrees, or certification programs.

IFSAC can confirm that you have been either certified to specific levels offered through our accredited certifying entities, or confirm your IFSAC accredited degree program and that you are listed in the IFSAC International Registry.

The entity from which you received your certificate or degree should be contacted regarding your question. They should be able to provide you with the degree transcripts or certification records.