Similarities between the tasks of Quality Assurance Agencies in different countries cover many aspects, starting with their general missions. Endorsement of the same QA fundamental concepts, based on the ESGs, as a fundamental pillar of the European Higher Education Area, might lead to the conclusion that the agencies could and should operate in similar manners. Current practice shows, however, a number of significant differences which should be taken into account when assessing the activity and results of the QA agencies. The main differences identified come from: the social and economic climate in the former Eastern block countries; legislation; structure of HE with state and private universities; students‟ involvement; resources allocated to HE and research; internationalisation; the increasing popularity of distance learning; public pressure on education – which is sometimes seen as one of the main sources of poor economic performance.