The UK model for assuring quality and standards encourages universities to learn from experience, and each other, continuously. The independent Quality Assurance Agency (QAA) (opens in new window) conducts regular reviews, and the Funding Councils reserve the right to withdraw funding where shortcomings are not adequately addressed.

Click on the left hand menu to find out information on how the different parts of the system piece together. For information about HEFCE's policy for addressing unsatisfactory quality please see:  HEFCE policy for addressing unsatisfactory quality (opens in new window).

You can also compare the UK quality assurance system with other systems, such as the US.