A major milestone in the accreditation process has been reached by the Erie County Community College (EC3). A announcement was made on Tuesday to detail the Candidacy Status with the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

It is the accrediting body overseeing higher education institutions across the region.

This step means that EC3 is on track for full accreditation. It will also advance the application to participate in federal student aid programs, which will help students to access financial aid through grants and scholarships.

The college will also pursue approval to join Pennsylvania's State Aid Program, to support students as they consider EC3 for schooling.