The author proposes that a central aspect of the reform of the higher education system under current review must consider how the types of higher education institutions are determined. Doing such a review has two advantages: making clear the educational offer based on the demands of the system, and, that every institution has a precise academic identity and academic modality. The actual situation is confusing for the market and contributes to its asymmetry. The author's proposal is based on a systematic review and diagnosis of the higher education system that covers the last 20 years and contributes with some critical ideas to the construction of a public policy for the higher education system in Colombia.