### Question
How is the term separate and independent defined?


### Answer
The term **separate and independent** is defined in *20 U.S.C. § 1099b* as the following:

> that—


(1) the members of the postsecondary education governing body of the accrediting agency or association are not elected or selected by the board or chief executive officer of any related, associated, or affiliated trade association or membership organization

#### Citation:
  - *20 U.S.C. § 1099b*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 27-NATIONAL VOCATIONAL STUDENT LOAN INSURANCE > SUBCHAPTER IV-STUDENT ASSISTANCE > Part G-Program Integrity Triad > subpart 2-accrediting agency approval**

