EQUIS Updates: How Business Schools Are Evolving with New Standards

Introduction to EQUIS Accreditation

Accreditation helps business schools maintain high standards in education. One of the leading accreditation bodies in this field is the EFMD Quality Improvement System (EQUIS). It evaluates schools worldwide, ensuring they provide strong academic programs, engage in quality research, and connect with businesses.

EQUIS sets itself apart by looking at a school’s overall environment, not just individual programs. It examines factors like global reach, ethics, and real-world impact. Schools that earn EQUIS accreditation show they meet strict quality benchmarks.

To stay relevant, EQUIS updates its standards and processes regularly. Recent changes focus on broadening research recognition, strengthening accreditation processes, and providing better guidance to schools. These updates help business schools stay competitive and meet the needs of students, faculty, and employers.

Revision of Research Standards (June 2024)

In June 2024, the EFMD Quality Improvement System (EQUIS) updated its research standards to give business schools a clearer framework for evaluating their research efforts. The key changes include:

• Broader Recognition of Research
  • EQUIS now values both academic research and work that impacts businesses and society.
  • Schools can showcase research beyond academic journals, highlighting real-world contributions.
• Stronger Faculty Support
  • Schools must provide resources like funding, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities.
  • Research strategies should align with the school’s mission and goals.
• Improved Data Collection
  • Schools need to track and report research outputs more effectively.
  • EQUIS introduced clearer guidelines on measuring research impact.
• Focus on Ethics and Integrity
  • Schools must follow strict ethical guidelines in research.
  • Key areas include sustainability, digital advancements, and responsible business practices.

These updates push schools to take a broader approach to research. By recognizing diverse contributions and setting clear expectations, EQUIS ensures that business schools maintain strong academic standards while addressing real-world challenges.

Reaccreditation of Business Schools (March 2025)

In March 2025, the EFMD Quality Improvement System (EQUIS) reaccredited nine business schools, affirming their commitment to high-quality education and continuous improvement. This reaccreditation assures students, faculty, and employers that these schools meet rigorous international standards.

The nine reaccredited schools are:

• Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Zagreb, Croatia
• IPADE Business School, Universidad Panamericana, Mexico
• Kent Business School, University of Kent, United Kingdom
• Louvain School of Management, UCLouvain, Belgium
• Nanyang Business School, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore
• Newcastle Business School, The University of Newcastle, Australia
• Stellenbosch Business School, South Africa
• Thammasat Business School, Thammasat University, Thailand
• Waseda Business School, Waseda University, Japan

EQUIS Reaccreditation Evaluates Several Key Areas

• Academic Excellence: Schools must demonstrate robust academic programs and impactful research.
• Internationalization: A global perspective in curriculum and student diversity is essential.
• Corporate Connections: Strong ties with the business community enhance practical learning and employment opportunities.

Achieving EQUIS reaccreditation reflects these schools' dedication to maintaining and enhancing educational standards in a competitive global environment.

Impact on Higher Education

EQUIS accreditation influences business schools and the broader field of higher education. Schools that meet EQUIS standards gain credibility and attract students, faculty, and employers who value quality education.

Key impacts include:

• Higher Academic Standards
  Schools must maintain strong teaching and research programs.
  Accreditation pushes schools to assess and improve their courses.
• Stronger Global Recognition
  EQUIS-accredited schools gain international visibility.
  Graduates benefit from degrees recognized by employers worldwide.
• Better Industry Connections
  Schools work closely with businesses to shape relevant courses.
  Students get practical learning experiences through internships and projects.
• Focus on Ethical and Sustainable Practices
  Schools must include ethics and sustainability in their curriculum.
  Research must address global challenges in business and society.
• Continuous Improvement
  Schools must show progress to maintain accreditation.
  Faculty development, student support, and research quality remain priorities.

EQUIS ensures that business schools stay relevant and prepare students for careers in a changing business world. Its standards push schools to improve and stay competitive in global education.

The Future of Business Education with EQUIS

EQUIS continues to shape business education by holding schools to high standards. Its recent updates push schools to improve research, maintain strong academic programs, and connect with industries worldwide.

Key takeaways:

• Schools must meet strict reaccreditation requirements to stay competitive.
• Research standards now recognize a wider range of contributions.
• Business education is becoming more global and practical.
• Ethical and sustainable practices are a growing focus.

These changes ensure that business schools prepare students for real-world challenges. EQUIS accreditation signals quality and helps schools build trust with students, employers, and faculty. By adapting to new educational needs, EQUIS keeps business education relevant and effective.