The evaluation process consists of the following phases a self-evaluation process with the aim to enhance the institutional strategic leadership, capacity for improvement and change through self-reflection. It is followed by a self-evaluation report which provides information to the evaluation team, with emphasis on the institution's strategic and quality management activities;

two site visits of an evaluation team  composed of current or former European rectors or vice-rectors, a student and a senior higher education expert
an evaluation report, which is published online, that highlights good practices identified and includes recommendations for improvement
follow-up procedure: within one year of publication of the final evaluation report, the institution submits to the IEP secretariat and the evaluation team a progress report. Evaluated institutions are encouraged to register for a follow-up evaluation carried out by IEP one to three years after the initial evaluation.