Strengthening impact assessment in European University alliances: key insights from 15 case studies

European University Alliances (EUAs) play a central role in transforming the European higher education landscape through long-term, strategic cooperation. As alliances mature, demonstrating evidence of results, outcomes, and impact has become a growing priority aligned with their transformative mission.

To support this objective, the FOREU4ALL Impact Topical Group has published the report European University Alliances Good Impact Assessment Practices – Case Studies. The collection presents 15 self-reported case studies showcasing how EUAs approach impact assessment across different stages of development.

Towards a shared understanding of impact

The Impact Topical Group focuses on three main goals: raising awareness around the concept of impact, building impact literacy across alliances, and enhancing impact readiness through appropriate strategies, structures, and processes. The case studies examined highlight how alliances are translating these goals into practice by embedding impact assessment within governance and management frameworks.

The documented practices explore:

• Stages of development of impact assessment frameworks
• Methodologies and approaches, including Theory of Change
• Implementation challenges and emerging solutions
• Lessons learned and recommendations

Key findings from the case studies

The case studies reveal that many alliances have already implemented impact assessment practices, with overlapping methodologies providing a foundation for shared approaches. Several alliances use Theory of Change frameworks to map links between activities, outcomes, and long-term impacts at institutional, regional, and European levels. A recurring message is that impact assessment is not an end in itself, but a tool to support learning, strategic decision-making, and continuous improvement.

From a governance perspective, most alliances assign clear responsibility for impact assessment, supported by participatory processes involving leaders of Work Packages, institutional contact points, learners, staff, and external stakeholders. Mixed-method approaches combining quantitative and qualitative data are common, with some alliances increasingly adopting digital tools.

Challenges and lessons learned

Common challenges include reaching a shared understanding of the concept of “impact,” agreeing on indicators, navigating heterogeneous data systems, and balancing alliance-level assessment with project-based reporting requirements. The case studies consistently stress the importance of starting impact assessment early, ensuring sufficient staff capacity, and aligning impact activities with existing quality assurance and institutional reporting processes.

Next steps ahead

The findings showcase the value of continued peer learning and knowledge exchange, particularly around qualitative assessment methods and Theory of Change–based approaches. As EUAs continue to evolve, the Impact Topical Group aims to update existing practices and document new ones, further strengthening impact as a core component of alliance strategies.

The case studies will be presented and discussed during a public webinar organised by the FOREU4ALL Impact Topical Group on 18 May, from 13:00 to 14:30.

Read the full report here.