Executive summary

Purpose

1. This document is for consultation. The document:

• sets out the draft framework and generic criteria for assessment in the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF)
• specifies the content, data requirements and related definitions for submissions to the 2021 REF
• guides higher education institutions on policy and practical matters in preparing submissions.

Action required

2. Please respond to this consultation by 15 October 2018 using the online form. This can be accessed at: https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/DTZ1O/. A Word version of the response form can be downloaded below, for information only. Only responses received through the online form will be reviewed and included in our analysis.