Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Applied eXel and how is it different from existing rankings or accreditation systems?
Applied eXel is a quality enhancement and benchmarking framework specifically designed for applied higher education. It is not a ranking or accreditation system. Instead, it focuses on institutional self-reflection, peer learning, and evidence-based improvement, with excellence defined in relation to applied missions such as employability, applied research, societal impact, and industry engagement.
2. Is Applied eXel an accreditation or regulatory requirement?
No. Applied eXel is a voluntary, developmental framework. It does not replace national accreditation, licensing, or regulatory quality assurance processes. Rather, it complements existing systems by providing an applied-focused lens that many regulatory frameworks do not explicitly address.
3. Who is eligible to apply for the Applied eXel Excellence Label?
Applied eXel is intended for institutions or institutional units with a clear applied orientation, including universities of applied sciences, technological universities, polytechnics, higher technical colleges, and applied faculties within comprehensive universities. Eligibility criteria for the 2027 Excellence Label cycle will be formally announced by the UNESCO Chair.
4. What does participation in Applied eXel involve for an institution?
Participation involves structured institutional self-assessment, engagement with international peer reviewers, submission of evidence aligned with the Applied eXel framework, and participation in peer learning and benchmarking activities. Institutions are encouraged to involve leadership, faculty, students, and external stakeholders in the process.
5. How much time and institutional effort is required?
The level of effort depends on institutional size and maturity. However, Applied eXel is designed to build on existing data, quality assurance processes, and strategic documents, rather than create parallel systems. Most institutions integrate the process within their existing quality and planning cycles.
6. How are institutions assessed under Applied eXel?
Institutions assess themselves against seven pillars and sixteen criteria, focusing on both capabilities (structures, processes, and systems) and outcomes (results and impact). Peer reviewers then provide an external perspective. Scoring is qualitative, evidence-based, and developmental in nature.
7. Are the results or scores made public?
No. Individual institutional scores are confidential. Results are shared only within the participating cohort and are used for benchmarking and learning purposes. Public recognition focuses on participation and achievement of the Applied eXel Excellence Label, not comparative ranking.
8. How does Applied eXel align with national and international quality assurance frameworks?
Applied eXel is aligned with internationally recognized quality principles, including those underpinning European quality assurance frameworks, while remaining adaptable to different national regulatory environments. Institutions may use Applied eXel outcomes to support internal reviews, external audits, and strategic reporting.
9. What role do UNESCO and EURASHE play in Applied eXel?
Applied eXel is developed under the UNESCO Chair on Strategic Foresight and Higher Education at HCT, providing academic leadership and global legitimacy. EURASHE acts as Project Manager, supporting operational coordination, peer learning, and alignment with applied higher education policy and quality standards.
10. What happens after the pilot phase and how can institutions engage next?
The pilot phase is currently underway and closed to new applicants. Following its completion, the UNESCO Chair will launch the next cycle leading to the Applied eXel Excellence Label in 2027. Institutions interested in future participation are encouraged to register their interest through the website.