Within Hong Kong’s Qualifications Framework, the Hong Kong Council for Accreditation of Academic and Vocational Qualifications (HKCAAVQ) decides whether an operator, assessment agency, learning programme or qualification can be granted HKCAAVQ accreditation status.

Assessment is made with reference to local and internationally recognised standards through a process of peer review. The HKCAAVQ issues an accreditation report on the outcome of the accreditation activity. Guidelines on the principles, processes and procedures of the HKCAAVQ accreditation services are available.

HKCAAVQ is currently piloting a new accreditation system for non-local courses. This will enable non-local programmes to be included in the Qualifications Framework and listed in the publicly available Qualifications Register set up by the HKCAAVQ. QF accreditation is voluntary and such accreditation will not replace the current registration / exemption process under the Non-local Higher and Professional Education (Regulation) Ordinance.