Equivalency Certificates in the UAE

Navigating the educational and professional landscape in the UAE requires an understanding of equivalency certificates. These certificates play a critical role in bridging the gap between international educational qualifications and the UAE's standards, ensuring that your foreign-acquired qualifications are recognized and valued in the UAE.

What is an Equivalency Certificate?

An equivalency certificate is an official document issued by the UAE Ministry of Education. It verifies that a degree obtained from an institution outside the UAE meets the UAE’s academic criteria and standards. This process ensures the legitimacy and authenticity of foreign qualifications, preventing the use of counterfeit degrees.

Why Equivalency Certificates are Important

Equivalency certificates are essential for individuals intending to continue their education or pursue career opportunities in the UAE. They confirm that your qualifications meet the UAE's educational standards, which is crucial for both academic and employment pursuits in the country. This process supports the UAE's commitment to maintaining a highly skilled workforce and ensures that qualifications from abroad meet local criteria.

Common Reasons for Needing an Equivalency Certificate

• Higher Education: Students wishing to enroll in UAE universities must have their previous qualifications recognized.
• Professional Employment: Certain professions require verified qualifications, particularly in sectors like engineering, healthcare, and education.
• Visa Applications: Some visa categories, such as the Golden Visa, may require an equivalency certificate as part of the documentation.

Countries Frequently Requiring Equivalency Certificates

Individuals from countries with varying educational standards compared to the UAE, including India, Pakistan, the UK, the USA, and the Philippines, often need to obtain equivalency certificates when they move to the UAE for studies or work.

Steps to Obtain an Equivalency Certificate

1. Degree Attestation: The first step is to get your degree attested by the UAE embassy in the country where the degree was issued.
2. Submit Required Documents: These include the attested degree, academic transcripts, passport copy, and other identification documents.
3. Application Submission: Fill out the equivalency application form available on the Ministry of Education’s website and attach all required documents.
4. Application Review and Verification: The Ministry will review your application and verify the authenticity and equivalency of your qualifications.
5. Payment of Fees: Pay the applicable fees for processing your equivalency certificate.

Documents Required for Equivalency Certificate

The required documents may vary depending on the country your qualifications are originating from, for further guidance you can review the MoE website for more specific requirements. Or speak to our team to review your individual circumstances.

You may require:

• Attested degree certificate
• Academic transcripts
• Passport copy
• UAE visa
• Completed application form
• Additional documents as required based on nationality and degree type

Who Needs an Equivalency Certificate to Work?

Here are some of the working roles that are likely to require you to obtain an Equivalency Certificate for your qualifications.

• Teachers and Professors: To work in UAE schools and universities.
• Engineers: To register with the Society of Engineers.
• Medical Professionals: To obtain licenses from health authorities like MOHAP, DOH, or DHA.
• Government Employees: Expats applying for government roles may need this certification.

Challenges and Tips

These tips are for your actual application, however we think one of the biggest tips is to be prepared not just for applying for your Equivalency Certificate, but for the end goal you are aiming for. Research whether you will require an Equivalency Certificate when considering your future in the UAE, and if you believe you might, then submit your application and get certified before you start applying for work, education etc. in the UAE. The last thing you need is to be successful in an application to follow your dreams, but fall down at the final hurdle of verifying your documentation!

• Common Pitfalls: Incomplete documentation, unaccredited institutions, and incorrect application details can lead to delays or rejection.
• Preparation Tips: Ensure all documents are properly attested and translated if necessary, and double-check application details before submission.

How Prism 7 Can Help With Equivalency Certificates

As well as a whole suit of document legalization and attestation services, Prism 7 Corporate Services specializes in facilitating the process of obtaining equivalency certificates for expatriates and residents in the UAE. We understand the intricacies of the application process and provide comprehensive assistance to ensure your qualifications are recognized. Not only do we support you in the submission of your equivalency certificate application, we also review your requirements for other legalities you may come across in the UAE.

Our Services

• Document Preparation: We guide you through gathering and preparing the necessary documents such as attested degrees and academic transcripts.
• Application Submission: Our team helps you fill out and submit the equivalency application accurately and efficiently.
• Liaison with Authorities: We communicate with the UAE Ministry of Education on your behalf to streamline the process.
• Follow-up and Updates: Our services include regular updates and follow-ups on the status of your application.

With Prism 7 Corporate Services, you can navigate the equivalency certificate process smoothly and efficiently. Whether you are pursuing further studies or seeking professional opportunities, our expert guidance ensures that your qualifications are validated according to UAE standards.

For more detailed guidance and to start your application process, visit our dedicated service page or contact us directly at Prism 7 Corporate Services.