QAA Scotland carries out cyclical external quality assurance review for higher education institutions in Scotland. The culture and fundamental approach of the method is enhancement-led and each review takes place at an institutional level. 

From 2003 to 2021, the review method was referred to by the title Enhancement-Led Institutional Review, or ELIR, and four cycles took place in that period.

A new method - also enhancement-led - is currently in development. Phase 1 of the developing method is taking place during 2022-24, while consultation with the sector, Scottish Funding Council and other key stakeholders continues for Phase 2.