Path A is the term for a two step accreditation review recommended for new Schools of Nursing, new partnerships offering nursing education programs, or new nursing programs. This path offers the opportunity for a formative review (Path A Stage 1 Accreditation) of the program or partnership against the CASN accreditation standards during the initial implementation period, and a summative review (Path A Stage 2 Accreditation) once the program has graduated students.

The purpose of a Path A stage 1 review is to assess how well the educational unit and program are developing in relation to CASN accreditation standards. A successful Path A stage 1 review allows students to graduate from an accredited institution and program. A Path A stage 2 review determines whether the educational unit and program are meeting the CASN accreditation standards.