What is TEF?
The Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) has been introduced by Government to encourage excellent teaching in universities and colleges. It is intended to help students choose where to study, by providing clear information about teaching provision and student outcomes.
The TEF is a voluntary scheme, which is now in its second trial year. It is in addition to the UK’s existing rigorous quality requirements. Universities and colleges which have chosen to participate this year have been awarded a gold, silver, bronze, or provisional rating.
How should students use the TEF?
The TEF ratings are displayed in our new search tool, for undergraduate courses starting in 2018. These ratings can be used alongside the many factors students should consider when making higher education choices – including course duration and modules, cost, location, and facilities. View our information and advice about how to get started on making these important decisions.
Many of the resources you use when advising learners, such as the National Student Survey (NSS), and Destination of Leavers from HE survey (DLHE), also feed into the TEF.
View our guide to the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) for more information, including:
- why some universities and colleges don’t have TEF ratings
- how the TEF ratings are decided
- what makes a provider eligible to participate
- the data behind the new TEF