The Teaching Excellence Framework, also known as the ‘Teaching Excellence and Student Outcomes Framework’ was introduced by the government in 2016. It aims to drive up the standards of teaching in Higher Education Institutions by assessing them on teaching standards, student outcomes, and student satisfaction. Institutions can get a gold, silver or bronze rating which is hoped will help prospective students in choosing high quality places to study.
Institutions with a TEF rating can charge a maximum of £9,250 per year, whilst those without can charge £9,000. Previously the government intended for fees to be able to rise with inflation, however after significant opposition this decision was delayed for the foreseeable future.