FINEEC renews its framework for the fourth audit cycle of higher education institutions
The Finnish Education Evaluation Centre (FINEEC) has updated its audit framework to respond to developments in higher education nationally and internationally. The new fourth cycle framework (2025–2030) addresses the core missions of HEIs, with a particular emphasis on strengthening high-quality education. The new framework also puts more focus on the connection between strategic management and the quality system.
The new audit framework combines European standards with the priorities of Finnish HEIs
The FINEEC audit framework aligns with European quality assurance standards (ESG), builds on the experience of three previous audit cycles in Finland, and addresses the current needs and challenges of Finnish higher education institutions (HEIs).
Audits have been carried out in Finland for twenty years, during which HEIs have systematically developed their quality systems.
In the upcoming audit cycle, expectations for the effectiveness of HEIs’ quality work are higher than before. Institutions are expected not only to react to problems, but also to work proactively, demonstrate capacity for renewal in a changing environment, and enhance both the quality and societal impact of their activities, says Susanna Niinistö-Sivuranta, managing director of Sivistysala ry Sivista and chair of the planning team.
Designed in collaboration with HEIs and stakeholders
The framework was developed together with HEIs and key stakeholders. The consultations with various stakeholder groups highlighted the important role of HEIs in society and the high expectations placed on institutions.
The new audit framework aims to strenghten the competitiveness and appeal of Finnish higher education, support HEIs’ ongoing development, and show the high quality of their operations, says Mirella Harri, counsellor of evaluation and project manager at FINEEC.
Stakeholders strongly supported the enhancement-led approach, which will continue to guide audits. The new cycle will also link audits more closely to HEIs’ daily activities. Greater use will be made of existing data, such as institutional and national feedback surveys.
Two evaluation areas
- Strategic management supported by the quality system – emphasising the connection between the quality system and strategic management, as well as operational culture, including openness and inclusiveness.
- Learning supported by teaching and guidance – emphasising pedagogy, student-centred and research-based education, work-life perspectives, internationalisation, and continuous learning.
Each HEI may also choose a strategic cross-cutting theme for the audit and receive feedback to support its further development.
The audit framework was prepared by a planning team appointed by FINEEC’s Higher Education Evaluation Committee, together with FINEEC experts. The Committee approved the pilot version of the framework on 13 June 2025. It will be piloted in two HEIs during 2026, with the full audit cycle starting in early 2027.
The audits ensure that HEIs maintain and further develop the quality of their activities, that their quality work complies with the European Standards and Guidelines for Quality Assurance (ESG), and that it supports both strategic management and the high-quality implementation of HEIs’ core functions. A successful FINEEC audit confirms that an HEI’s operations and quality system comply with both national and European standards.
FINEEC fourth cycle audit manual for HEIs (2025–2030)- pilot phase
Additional information
