The ‘Europe 2020 Strategy’ and other EU initiatives call for more excellence in Europe’s higher education institutions in order to improve their performance, international attractiveness and competitiveness. In this context the relevance of quality in higher education gained momentum. The Study examines separately two different quality approaches, quality assurance and rankings, and takes stock of latest achievements. This is followed by a critical analysis of these approaches in a comparative perspective. Recommendations and policy options for the Parliament are provided.

doi: 10.2861/426164 QA-02-15-583-EN-N