degreerecognition

Degree recognition is the process by which an academic credential issued by one country or institution is assessed to determine whether it meets the educational standards of another jurisdiction. It is commonly required for admission to further study, professional licensure, or employment, and it can influence whether a degree is treated as equivalent to a local credential or accepted for specific purposes such as licensing or immigration.

Typically, national governments or designated agencies—such as ministries of education or credential evaluation bodies—oversee recognition. They verify that the degree comes from a legitimate, accredited program, check program length and curriculum, confirm institutional status, and may require official transcripts, degree certificates, translations, and sometimes verification of the awarding institution directly with the school.

Outcomes range from full recognition (the degree is accepted as meeting local standards), to partial recognition (the credential is recognized for certain uses or after additional requirements), to non-recognition (the degree does not meet applicable criteria). For many professions, recognition is followed by licensing or credentialing processes that may require exams or supervised practice.

International frameworks and agreements aim to facilitate recognition across borders, but processes and criteria vary by country and by field of study. Regional initiatives within the European Higher Education Area, as well as UNESCO and other international guidelines, provide guidance but do not guarantee automatic acceptance.

Individuals seeking recognition should contact the relevant authorities or credential evaluation services in the destination country and prepare documentation such as transcripts, degree certificates, accreditation proofs, and course descriptions to support the evaluation.