I am a new provider

Important News Update

Please note that, following a recent pause, the provider approval process (previously known as initial access to validation) has now re-opened. The application documentation (available below) has been updated to incorporate reference to the due diligence evaluation process. 

 

The Process

If you are a new provider wishing to offer programmes leading to QQI awards, you must apply to QQI for: 

  1. Provider approval, which comprises two stages:

    1a. Due diligence evaluation

    1b. Approval of QA procedures

  2. Validation of your first programme(s) of education and training 

Applicants must be successful at Stage 1, before they can proceed to Stage 2.  

The purpose of the provider approval process is to assist a provider in developing an appropriate quality assurance system to promote and support quality in its programmes and services. 

Through this process, providers can learn about those areas of provision that QQI considers crucial, as well as how to approach establishing and maintaining a quality system that incorporates both operational procedures and a system of review to monitor the effectiveness of those procedures. 

QQI will arrange periodic briefings for organisations wishing to apply for approval by QQI. Each provider must, following attendance at a briefing:  

  • Notify QQI in advance of its intention to make an application.
  • Receive credentials for access to the portal for the due diligence process.
  • Complete and submit the due diligence online form.
  • Pay the appropriate fee.
  • This fee is non-refundable.
  • Submit the following documentation in soft copy (to a QQI designated cloud folder)
  • Application Form for QA evaluation and supporting evidence.
  • Draft QA Procedures and supporting documentation.

Schedule of Fees 

Policies and criteria for the validation of programmes of education and training

CORE Statutory Quality Assurance Guidelines developed by QQI for use by all Providers (April 2016) 

Sector Specific Guidelines (all four below) 

Statutory Quality Assurance Guidelines for Providers of Blended Learning Programmes (March 2018) 

Statutory Quality Assurance Guidelines developed by QQI for Providers of Statutory Apprenticeship Programmes (June 2016) 

Policy and Criteria for Provider Access to Initial Validation of Programmes Leading to QQI Awards

QQI Policy Restatement Policy and Criteria for Access, Transfer and Progression in Relation to Learners for Providers of Further and Higher Education and Training (2015) 

Principles and Operational Guidelines for the Recognition of Prior Learning in Further and Higher Education and Training (June 2005) 

QQI Policy on Quality Assurance Guidelines

QQI Roles, Responsibilities and Code of Conduct

Interpretation and Practical Application of the QQI Core Statutory Quality Assurance Guidelines Section 2.1: Governance and Management of Quality

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