This study systematically investigates the non-academic impact assessment carried out by the United States, the United Kingdom and the Netherlands from the dimensions of assessment objectives, assessment methods, assessment standards and assessment processes. Based on the international practices, this study proposes three recommendations towards our existing evaluation framework of subjects in higher education institutions in China. First, the dimension of ‘non-academic impact’ of scientific research should be included to contribute to more diverse and vital research environment. Second, The evaluation scheme should be further optimized to strengthen the guiding function of ‘non-academic impact’ evaluation; Third, meta-evaluation is encouraged to be conducted to facilitate better evaluation culture.