The Higher Education Accreditation Accountability Act seeks to strengthen oversight and accountability within the higher education accreditation system. It establishes new criteria for accrediting agencies seeking federal recognition, requiring them to demonstrate a track record of effectively accrediting institutions or programs for at least two consecutive years and to be legally established with enforceable standards. The bill also modifies the recognition process for these agencies, limiting initial recognition periods to three years, during which agencies must provide extensive documentation to the Secretary of Education. Subsequent recognition periods can extend up to five years, reflecting a more cautious approach to granting and renewing federal recognition. A central provision of the Act is the requirement for institutions of higher education to obtain approval from the Secretary of Education before changing their primary accrediting agency. Institutions must submit a detailed application explaining their reasons for the change, demonstrating how the proposed new agency will maintain or strengthen institutional quality, and providing supporting materials to prove "reasonable cause." The Secretary's review process includes public input and a thorough evaluation to determine if the change is an attempt to avoid sanctions, lessen oversight, or evade scrutiny from state or local agencies. Critically, the bill mandates that the Secretary deny an application if the institution has had its accreditation withdrawn or been subject to probation within the preceding 24 months, ensuring institutions cannot easily escape accountability.