QAA launches new international programme accreditation
| Date: | August 27 - 2026 |
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Today we are launching the new version of our International Programme Accreditation (IPA), an internationally recognised accreditation designed to help higher education providers demonstrate programme excellence, drive continuous enhancement and gain global recognition.
International Programme Accreditation (IPA) provides independent expert peer review of individual academic programmes delivered outside the UK. Through accreditation, providers can demonstrate that their programmes meet internationally recognised quality standards and deliver a high-quality student experience.
The development of IPA is underpinned by QAA's long-standing role as a global leader in quality assurance, responsible for developing and managing key UK sector reference points including Subject Benchmark Statements and Characteristics Statements. We have embedded our unparalleled understanding of what high-quality programme design, delivery and outcomes look like within the IPA methodology, giving institutions confidence that their programmes are being reviewed against rigorous criteria.
Our new accreditation:
- provides validation of programme quality via a trusted QAA Quality Mark
- supports continuous enhancement through engagement with QAA experts
- builds confidence among students, employers, partners and regulators
- helps institutions strengthen their reputation and grow their global footprint.
To formally launch IPA, we are holding a special event on 1 October 2026 where we will introduce the new accreditation. The webinar will outline how the enhanced IPA approach responds to the evolving needs of higher education providers and share insights into the strategic value of external, independent programme accreditation.
Speaking about the launch, Jennifer Taylor, QAA’s Director of Contract Services, said: “Through our conversations with higher education providers around the world, we've heard a consistent need for programme-level recognition that provides independent assurance of quality, supports international ambitions and delivers real value beyond compliance. International Programme Accreditation provides institutions with a powerful way to demonstrate programme excellence on a global stage, and we are excited to work with institutions as they use accreditation to build confidence with students and partners, strengthen graduate outcomes and create new opportunities for international growth.”
Further information about IPA is available here.