The regulatory framework for the initial and periodic assessment of doctoral programmes at universities provides for different methods and tools for implementation.

Initial accreditation consists of an authorization by the Ministry of Universities and Research (MUR), based on ANVUR's evaluation regarding the scientific qualification of the Doctoral Board, the educational project, and the student services/resources.

Periodic assessment primarily involves verifying the continuity of the requirements that led to the initial accreditation of the programmes. It is conducted every five years, or in the case of substantial changes to the programme (e.g., changes in the composition of the Doctoral Board, the Coordinator, or the programme title).

Doctoral programmes are also evaluated during the periodic assessment of universities, where the quality assurance system of the programmes is examined.