For the purpose of the initial accreditation of university Study Programmes, ANVUR defines specific evaluation protocols for each type (conventional programmes, healthcare area, distance learning, off-campus locations).
The Agency relies on the activities of Evaluation Expert Panels (PEV), which are responsible for formulating a judgment based on an in-depth review of the project proposed by the University, grounded in the analysis of the documentation provided by the institution and the performance of site visits or remote visits. On-site visits are carried out when the evaluated programmes require specific infrastructure and laboratory requirements.
Based on the evaluations conducted by the PEVs, the Governing Board of the Agency issues an opinion regarding the initial accreditation of the programmes, which is sent to the relevant institution and to the Ministry of Universities and Research (MUR) for the formal decision on accreditation or non-accreditation.
The main stages of the evaluation procedure are as follows
- Submission of the application
The University submits the application for the initial accreditation of the new Study Programme, its replica, or the new off-campus location to the MUR via an online platform. The MUR subsequently forwards the application to the National University Council (CUN) and to ANVUR for the respective evaluations.
- Appointment of the Evaluation Expert Panel (PEV)
The Governing Board (CD) of ANVUR appoints one or more PEVs for the evaluation of new programmes/replicas and off-campus locations within the same disciplinary area.
- Document analysis and preliminary evaluation
The PEV assesses each new programme/replica/off-campus location by analysing the information dossier submitted by the University and using the evaluation protocol adopted by the Agency. Based on the information in the dossier, the PEV may decide to conduct a site visit to further examine specific aspects (e.g., infrastructure and laboratory verification). A site visit is always mandatory for new healthcare programmes and new off-campus locations.
The PEV drafts a Summary Report including the findings, considerations, and conclusions of the expert group.
- Counterarguments
In the case of a negative preliminary evaluation, the University may submit any counterarguments, which will be examined by the PEV.
- Final evaluation
After reviewing any counterarguments, the PEV drafts and approves the Final Report, which is submitted to the Governing Board.
- Opinion of the Governing Board
The Governing Board makes its decision based on the PEV’s report and the available documentation for each programme and off-campus location. The decision concludes with a positive or negative opinion on accreditation, accompanied by supporting reasons.
- Publication of the evaluation
ANVUR publishes the PEV’s Final Report and the Governing Board’s opinion on its website.
- MUR decision
In line with ANVUR’s opinion, the Ministry issues the formal decision on the accreditation or non-accreditation of the Study Programme or the new off-campus location and notifies the University.