"Must Statements" are the building blocks for the self-study report. Each of the 87 SACS criteria have been defined by one or more requirements or conditions of accreditation -- called "must statements." 

Example: The institution must demonstrate planning and evaluation in its administrative and educational support services.

The 87 SACS criteria examine all aspects of the institution: Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, Institutional Advancement, Administration and Finance, and the Office of the President. The must statements fall within four categories -- quality control, use of resources, quality assurance, and evaluation and improvement.