The CHE is an independent statutory body established in May 1998 as provided for by Section 4 of the Higher Education Act (Act No. 101 of 1997, as amended), and it also functions as the Quality Council for Higher Education in terms of the National Qualifications Framework Act (Act No 67 of 2008, as amended). It is a Schedule 3A national public entity in terms of the Public Finance Management Act (Act No. 1 of 1999).