Based on a series of questions and challenges posed initially on processes of quality evaluation, the text characterizes the neoliberal policies in higher education as developed in most Latin American countries and their impact on university systems and their evolution. Next, the text analyzes the various theoretical and methodological conceptions about quality and its evaluation and accreditation. These processes are also considered from a comparative perspective, analyzing those developed in the United States, Canada, Europe and Latin America. Finally, the major Latin American trends in evaluation and higher education quality accreditation, its achievements, limitations and, particularly, its challenges are critically presented