Management Systems for Educational Organizations
Requirements with Guidance for Use
What is ISO 21001:2018?
ISO 21001:2018 is the international management system standard specifically designed for educational organizations.
It provides a framework for effective management to enhance learner satisfaction by improving educational processes and meeting learners’ and other beneficiaries’ needs.
This standard applies to any organization that uses a curriculum to support the development of competence through teaching, learning, or research—regardless of size, type, or method of delivery.
Purpose of
ISO 21001:2018
Improve the alignment of educational programs with learners’ and other stakeholders’ needs
Enhance credibility and recognition of educational services internationally
Promote learner-centered education
Support continuous improvement in teaching and learning processes
Scope
ISO 21001:2018 is applicable to:
Schools, colleges, and universities
Vocational training centers
Corporate training departments
Online learning providers
Any organization offering educational products and services
Benefits of
ISO 21001:2018 Certification
Enhanced learner satisfaction and engagement
International recognition of quality in education
Better alignment with global best practices in education management
Increased transparency and accountability
Stronger relationships with stakeholders
ISO/IEC 17024 is organized into clauses that outline the scope, references, terminology, and operational requirements for certification bodies.
| No. | Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
|
1 |
Scope |
Describes which organizations or activities the standard applies to, defining the boundaries. Example: ISO 9001 applies to the quality management system of any organization; ISO 17024 applies to personnel certification bodies. |
|
2 |
Normative References |
Lists other international standards cited within this standard that form part of it. For example: ISO/IEC 17000, ISO 9000 (terms and definitions). |
|
3 |
Terms and Definitions |
Provides official definitions for technical terms used in the standard to ensure consistency, such as certification, competence, assessment, qualification, etc. |
The first three clauses are introductory and not directly auditable, but they are essential for understanding the standard.
ISO 21001:2018 – Core Auditable Clauses
The following clauses form the auditable requirements that certification bodies must meet:
| No. | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|
|
4 |
Context of the Educational Organization |
Analyze internal and external factors, learner needs, and expectations of relevant parties (e.g., employers/industry). |
|
5 |
Leadership |
Educational leaders must clarify vision, values, and quality policies, driving organizational development. |
|
6 |
Planning |
Identify risks and opportunities, set educational objectives, and plan the education management system. |
|
7 |
Support |
Includes human resources, educational resources, infrastructure, learning environment, and communication of information. |
|
8 |
Operation |
Core content: curriculum design, teaching delivery, assessment and evaluation, learner support, and related processes. |
|
9 |
Performance Evaluation |
Includes learner satisfaction surveys, exam result analysis, internal audits, and management reviews. |
|
10 |
Improvement |
Address non-conformities and continually improve learning outcomes and organizational performance. |
Submit company/individual background and certification project details.
Complete the application form and attach all required documents.
Review of basic information, quality manual, or resume.
Conduct interviews, practical tests, or document evaluations according to scheme requirements.
Issue certificate and registration number (valid for typically 2 years).
Certification decision made by the Certification Decision Committee.
Assessment report submitted by the assessor.
ICM International Management’s Role
ICM certifies educational organizations according to ISO 21001:2018 by:
Conducting impartial management system audits
Providing gap analysis and readiness assessments
Issuing globally recognized certification upon compliance
Offering surveillance audits to ensure ongoing conformity
Eligibility Criteria
To apply for ISO 21001:2018 certification, educational organizations must:
Operate as a legally registered entity (school, training provider, institution, or department)
Have an active curriculum designed to deliver measurable competence or learning outcomes
Employ qualified educators, trainers, or facilitators with documented competence
Maintain adequate facilities, resources, and learning environments (physical or online)
Implement quality management practices in line with ISO 21001 requirements
Agree to comply with ICM’s certification rules and Code of Ethics
Contact: +6012 345 6789
Opening Time: MON – FRI 8.30AM – 18.00PM
Address : ZP-G-18, Lebuhraya Bukit Jalil, Bandar Kinrara 9, 47180 Puchong, Selangor, Malaysia
Email: cs@icm-international.org
Copyright © 2025 by ICM International Management Sdn Bhd (1074709-T) | Design By UX Workstation