INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — Indiana is seeking a deadline extension for new credentialing standards requiring most of the state’s dual credit teachers to earn additional college credit.

The Higher Learning Commission voted in November to allow states to seek an extension of up to five years to prepare for the new requirements by September 2016, with new credentialing standards slated to take effect in 2017.

The new guidelines require educators teaching college-level courses, including high school dual credit teachers, to hold a master’s degree with at least 18 credit hours in the subject area they teach. Under the current state policy, Indiana’s dual credit teachers must have the same credentials as college instructors or be approved by the college that awards students credit.

The Higher Learning Commission is the regional accreditation organization designated by the federal government for Indiana and 18 other states.