EQUIS Benefits
WHAT IS EQUIS?
EFMD Quality Improvement System (EQUIS) accreditation is a globally recognised mark of excellence for business and management education, run by EFMD. It involves a rigorous evaluation of institutions based on criteria such as academic programmes, faculty quality, research output, and student services. Achieving EQUIS accreditation demonstrates dedication to continuous improvement and adherence to global excellence standards. Its approach to quality assessment is rooted in respect for the diversity of institutional and cultural contexts. Beyond academic rigour, it emphasises international perspective, corporate relevance and ethical leadership. The accredited schools benefit from enhanced institutional reputation, attract seasoned faculty and students, foster academic partnerships and signal to employers that graduates possess a high standard of business education.
EQUIS was created in 1997 by a mandate of EFMD’s member business schools and with the specific active support of a number of them, among which were leading European institutions. The creation of EQUIS was prompted by the need to develop an accreditation system targeted to business schools worldwide that were striving to make an impact beyond their domestic frontiers.
EQUIS is European in its inspiration and global in its scope, providing an excellence framework for assessing quality in highly diverse institutional and cultural contexts. Currently, over 200 business schools hold the EQUIS label, of which 47% are located outside Europe.
What are the benefits of EQUIS for institutions?
Accreditation by EQUIS indicates that a business school has met international quality standards and criteria, offering several benefits:
Global reach
EQUIS is a widely respected accreditation system with a global reach. Being accredited by EQUIS enhances the international reputation of a business school, making it more attractive to students, faculty, and employers worldwide.
Quality
EQUIS accreditation brings legitimacy to internal and external stakeholders. It affirms that a school has a strong international reputation to donors, alumni, governmental bodies, and that it meets the highest standards of quality.
Excellence
EQUIS accreditation is a mark of excellence in business education. It ensures that the accredited institution maintains high standards in terms of faculty qualifications, curriculum, research output, and overall educational experience.
Continous Improvement
The accreditation process encourages continuous improvement. Business schools seeking or maintaining EQUIS accreditation must undergo periodic reviews, fostering a culture of self-assessment and continuous enhancement of their programmes and operations.
Community
EQUIS accreditation provides opportunities for networking and collaboration with other accredited institutions. This can lead to partnerships, joint research initiatives, and exchange programmes, enhancing the overall academic and professional environment.
International Benchmark
Accreditation allows business schools to benchmark themselves against international standards and peer institutions. This benchmarking process can help identify areas for improvement and innovation, ensuring that the school remains competitive in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.
What are the benefits of EQUIS for students?
EQUIS accreditation offers significant benefits to both students and alumni of a business school, ensuring a high standard of quality and international recognition.
Global benchmark
EQUIS accreditation guarantees rigorous quality control by benchmarking the school against international standards in governance, programmes, faculty, research, internationalisation, ethics, responsibility, sustainability, and corporate engagement. This ensures that students receive education of the highest quality aligned with global benchmarks.
Enhanced Career Prospects
Attending an EQUIS-accredited business school enhances students' career prospects by providing them with a recognised qualification that meets international standards. Employers value degrees from accredited institutions, giving graduates a competitive edge in the job market.
International Network
EQUIS accreditation allows students and alumni to become part of a network of top schools, facilitating collaborations for research, student exchange, and programme development. This network enhances professional connections and opportunities for career advancement.
Academic quality & Connection with practice
EQUIS-accredited schools emphasise a balance between academic quality and practical relevance through close interaction with the corporate world. This approach ensures that students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for real-world challenges in the business environment.
Unique learning experience
EQUIS attaches particular importance to the creation of an effective learning environment that favours the development of students' managerial and entrepreneurial skills and fosters their personal development and sense of global responsibility.
Continuous improvement
EQUIS accreditation encourages schools to focus on ongoing improvement following each accreditation visit. This commitment to enhancement ensures that students benefit from innovative programme designs, pedagogy, and a dynamic learning environment.