I would like to study in another country.

Once you have decided to study abroad and chosen the institution where you wish to apply for admission, you should write directly to the institution’s admissions office and ask for detailed application information and forms. This office will inform you about the documentation, translation, and visa requirements as applicable. The process can take considerable time, especially if immigration/visa requirements exist; you should begin at least one year in advance of your intended enrolment date to compile the necessary information and documentation.

There are number of additional questions you may need to clarify:

Is the institution where I would like to study recognised by the competent authorities in the country where it is located?

You need to be sure that other academic institutions, professional bodies or potential employers (depending on what you plan to do with the diploma you acquire) will accept the credential or qualification you are planning to obtain, or you may waste your time and money.

Due to the diversity of educational systems in various countries, the requirements for admission to educational programs or entry into an occupation may vary around the world and change constantly. It is advisable that applicants enquire about recognition of studies abroad with the competent authorities (professional organizations, higher education institutions, government bodies, and regulatory agencies governing professions) in their country of origin or in the place where they intend to further their studies or practice their occupation. While no authority can guarantee acceptance of a foreign degree, it is a good idea to verify its probable value before leaving your country.

Also, according to the principles of recognition for further studies (academic recognition) stipulated in the Convention on the Recognition of Qualifications concerning Higher Education in the European Region (Lisbon Convention, 1997), one country recognizes qualifications - whether for access to higher education, for periods of study or for higher education degrees - given by institution/programme that is recognized as belonging to a system of higher education in another country (unless it can show that there are substantial differences between its own qualifications and the qualifications for which recognition is sought). Accordingly, it is important to find out beforehand whether the institution where you are intending to study is recognized in its home country.

If it is not recognised, is it critical for my purpose?

Some institutions and programs of study, although not officially recognised, may still be of high quality and appropriate for your purpose. Contact your academic institution, professional body or employer, as the case may be, for advice and guidance.

More information

For specific information and for advice, contact the national information centre (see links to the left) in your country or in the country where you want to study. In countries where no such centres exist, contact the Ministry responsible for education. Once you have confirmed that the institution you are interested in is reliable and corresponds to your expectations, you should also contact the institution directly for specific instructions.

Last updated: 12.03.2007