What Do Institutional Internal Evaluation Reports Say? Content Analysis of Fully Accredited Universities

Quality assurance in higher education is of critical importance in terms of increasing the competitiveness of institutions as well as creating trust in students, academics and society. This study examines the Institutional Internal Evaluation Reports of 19 state universities that have received full accreditation by the Higher Education Quality Board in Turkey until February 2025 using the content analysis method. The study aims to determine the strengths, common practices and areas of development regarding the quality assurance systems of universities. The findings show that action plans, stakeholder participation and strategic planning have become widespread in quality management processes; however, differences between institutions continue in monitoring process documents, ISO standards, digitalization and social contribution activities. Exemplary practices have been encountered, especially in terms of the integration of leadership, governance and student support mechanisms into quality processes. As a result, it has been determined that the full accreditation process contributes to the institutionalization of quality culture; however, more inclusive, digital and stakeholder-focused approaches are needed for the sustainability of this process.