Subcontracting or validating higher education

These pages explain the difference between subcontractual and validation arrangements, how they work in higher education and the regulations that affected providers must meet.

Subcontracting

A subcontractual arrangement (or partnership) in higher education is where a student registers with a lead provider, but a separate provider (‘franchise provider’ or ‘delivery partner’) delivers the teaching under a subcontract.

Under these arrangements lead providers must meet our regulatory requirements.

We will publish further information shortly about the requirements that franchise providers must meet. 

Validating

Validation is where an established body with the power to award degrees (for example, a university) approves or validates the courses that another institution offers.

This is to make sure that the validated course meets the right quality and standards.

Any provider entering a validation arrangement must meet all the relevant regulatory requirements and manage associated risks effectively.

More about validation