Comparative research on the correlation of the quantum to public funding for the public institutions of higher education and the institution’s performance within the European Union member states

In the comparative study the authors analyze the relationship between the amount of public funds used for financing higher education, the financing mechanisms and the performance obtained by these, within the European Union member states. The performance criteria used for the optimization of the equilibrium between financial resources and the results of public higher education are also established. For this purpose, a series of performance indicators are analyzed in some of the European Union member states. Based on the research performed, the authors find differences between the European Union member states in higher education public funds financing, the new formulas and the financing mechanisms and in the use of performance, quantified by indicators. At the level of each of the member states, a relationship between public funds and performance is observed, each state using its own indicators evaluation system for establishing the amount of public funds to be used. The authors of the research recommend that the new financing mechanisms should transform the policies in activities and resources and establish a rigours context of responsibility that should guarantee the connexion between funds and the results obtained quantified in performance.