The Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) is an independent body in the United Kingdom that ensures the quality and standards of higher education institutions. Established in 1997, its primary role is to assess and enhance the quality of education provided by universities and colleges, ensuring that they meet national and international standards. QAA conducts reviews and audits of higher education institutions, providing guidance and support to help them improve their educational offerings. It also develops quality assurance frameworks and publishes reports that inform students, employers, and policymakers about the quality of higher education in the UK.