Research Assessment Exercise (RAE)

The Research Assessment Exercise (RAE) was a system used in the UK to evaluate the quality of research conducted at universities. By reviewing research outputs, such as publications, and assessing researchers’ impact, the RAE aimed to ensure high standards in academic work. Results influenced where government funding for research was allocated, providing financial support to institutions that demonstrated excellence. The exercise encouraged universities to focus on producing high-quality research and was replaced by the Research Excellence Framework (REF) in 2014, which continues to assess and promote research quality in UK higher education.