External evaluation of higher education in Estonia

In Estonia, only institutions of higher education, which have received the authorization to provide instruction in a study programme group and cycle of higher education are allowed to provide higher education and issue state higher education certificates.

Applying for the right to provide instruction

If an institution of higher education (private, public or state) wishes to apply for the right to conduct studies in a new study programme group, it shall submit its application to the Ministry of Education and Research along with information describing the quality, resources and measures for ensuring sustainability of studies. The Ministry may involve HAKA in providing an expert opinion to the Minister, who takes the decision on granting the right to provide instruction.  See more under initial and re-assessment of a study programme groups.

Institutions of higher education with the right to provide instruction receive feedback on the management, functioning, studies and research of their institution by undergoing Institutional accreditation at least once in seven years. Institutional accreditation is an external evaluation, which assesses the conformity of the institution’s management, work procedure, study and research activities and study and research environment to legislation and the goals and development plan of the institution.

Thematic Reviews may also be conducted by HAKA according to the mandate provided in the Higher Education Act.