Reference Framework & Standads

General Reference Framework & Standards

The IAQAC Framework forms the normative basis of the evaluation and accreditation process. It defines the minimum requirements and criteria of excellence that institutions and programs seeking accreditation must meet.

This reference framework is:

  • Public and accessible
  • Structured and documented
  • Aligned with international best practices in quality assurance
  • Regularly reviewed by the International Scientific Committee

It applies to:

  • Public and private universities
  • Top schools
  • Specialized Institutes
  • Higher education centers
  • Specific academic programs

Public Quality Manual

The IAQAC Quality Manual is organized around 5 strategic areas , comprising 52 detailed articles .

1️⃣ Governance and Institutional Leadership

This domain assesses:

  • The legal and statutory structure
  • Governing bodies
  • Administrative transparency
  • Strategic planning
  • Financial management
  • Decision-making mechanisms

The institution must demonstrate stable, documented governance that complies with applicable legal standards.

This area examines:

  • The coherence of the programs
  • Educational objectives
  • The qualifications of the teaching staff
  • Teaching methods
  • Student assessment methods
  • Curriculum update mechanisms

The programs must be structured, coherent and adapted to international academic standards.

This pillar analyzes:

  • The existence of an internal quality assurance unit
  • Self-assessment procedures
  • Performance indicators
  • Satisfaction surveys
  • Regular internal audits
  • Continuous improvement mechanisms

The institution must demonstrate an institutional culture geared towards continuous improvement.

This area of ​​expertise covers:

  • Educational infrastructure
  • Specialized laboratories and equipment
  • Physical and digital libraries
  • Technological resources
  • Accessibility and safety of facilities

The infrastructure must be adapted to the number of students and the nature of the programs offered.

This criterion measures :

  • Scientific research
  • Academic publications
  • National and international partnerships
  • The professional integration of graduates
  • Contribution to socio-economic development

The institution must demonstrate its real and measurable impact.

See the IAQAC quality manual
📊 Evaluation Methodology

The IAQAC rating system is based on :

  • Qualitative and quantitative criteria
  • A structured analytical framework
  • A transparent rating system
  • Mandatory documentary evidence
  • Interviews with stakeholders

Each article in the repository is subject to :

  • Specific indicators
  • Compliance thresholds
  • Evidence required
🏅 Accreditation Levels

Depending on the degree of compliance with standards, several statuses can be assigned:

  • Full accreditation
  • Conditional accreditation
  • Reasoned refusal
  • Suspension
  • Withdrawal

The standard validity period is 1 year , subject to continuous compliance.

📑 Application Guide

The IAQAC Application Guide specifies:

  • Eligibility requirements
  • Required documents
  • The procedural timetable
  • Financial obligations
  • The institution’s commitments

Preparatory steps:

  1. Letter of intent
  2. Signing of a procedural agreement
  3. Payment of the file opening fees
  4. Submission of the self-assessment report
🔄 Revision and Updating of Standards

The reference framework is periodically reviewed in order to:

  • Integrating academic developments
  • Take into account educational innovations
  • Adapt the criteria to international requirements
  • Improve the clarity of indicators

Any modification is subject to:

  • Validation by the International Scientific Committee
  • From an official publication
  • From an entry into force announced publicly
🔐 Compliance and Continuous Control

Obtaining accreditation involves:

  • A constant respect for standards
  • The transmission of an interim report
  • Notification of any major institutional change
  • The possibility of unannounced audits in the event of a report

Failure to comply with obligations may result in:

  • A formal notice
  • A temporary suspension
  • An official withdrawal of accreditation
🌐 International Engagement

The IAQAC Framework is designed to:

  • Promote international comparability
  • Supporting academic mobility
  • Strengthening institutional credibility
  • Encourage regional cooperation

It constitutes a structuring tool serving academic excellence and international recognition.