Quality assurance, external review to affirm and enhance academic quality of higher education institutions, has emerged as a central and critical issue for governments around the world. Whether operating in-country or crossborder, it is a matter of urgency that higher education institutions offer reliable quality teaching, learning, research and service to the community. Quality higher education is essential for economic development, social equity and mobility, as well as creativity and innovation. All of these elements are vital to the future success of countries and their citizens. This is the first in a series of policy briefs on key issues for higher education quality assurance internationally.