All new genetic counseling programs must complete a rigorous progress to demonstrate that the program is capable of meeting the minimum criteria for a genetic counseling training program as established by the American Board of Genetic Counseling. Programs that successfully complete this process are awarded provisional accreditation for the period of three years. At the end of three years the program is eligible to apply for full accreditation. All students that graduate from a provisionally accredited program have the same rights and privileges as graduates from a fully accredited program to apply for certification and licensure as a genetic counselor. In the event that a program does not receive full accreditation, all students that graduate from the program while provisionally accredited are still board eligible.