We understand the hassle one has to go through to get recognition for the degrees earned from foreign universities. Hence, the UAE has introduced an initiative that sounds like a warm welcome to the people who earned foreign degrees and are planning to live, work, or study in the UAE. It’s called the Recognition Report. Basically, it would act as an official stamp of approval confirming that your qualification is legit, accredited, and meets the UAE’s higher education standards.
What Is A Recognition Report?
As per the report by Gulf News, the Recognition Report is an official document issued by the UAE’s Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR). It’s a seal that confirms your foreign qualification meets the country’s approved academic and professional standards.
This report can help you secure job applications, postgraduate admissions, or even certain visa processes. Federal and government bodies across the Emirates will accept this to recognise your degree from abroad. However, in some rare cases, applications might require additional review, which could delay the process.
Eligibility For Recognition Report
Here’s a list of standards to be met before application:
- Only the original and authentic certificate to be accepted.
- The issuing university must be accredited by the official authority in its home country during your time of study.
- You must submit all required documents.
Incomplete applications are sent back for corrections. If the corrections are left unresolved, the file can be closed within 30 business days.
Required Documents
- Qualification Verification Report – Your concerned degree needs to be verified through one of the Ministry’s authorised partners: QuadraBay, DataFlow, or VFS Global
- Emirati scholarship students are required to submit a letter from their sponsoring institution instead.
- Graduation Certificate – The original or an official equivalent from your university.
- Legal Translation – Only documents in English or Arabic will be accepted.
- Academic Records –
- For Bachelor’s/Diploma: full transcripts signed and stamped.
- For Postgraduate degrees: Needs a thesis abstract if your program was research-based.
- For Bachelor’s/Diploma: full transcripts signed and stamped.
Fees & Timelines
There are two cost stages:
- Verification Fee – Depends on your verification partner (varies per case).
- Recognition Fee (to MoHESR) –
- Diploma/Bachelor’s: AED 100
- Postgraduate/Master’s: AED 150
- PhD: AED 200
- Diploma/Bachelor’s: AED 100
The entire process takes around 18 working days. Basically, 15 days for verification and 3 days for the issuance of your Recognition Report. Delays depend on your institution, whether there’s a delayed response or if extra documents are required.
Also Read: Lost Passport Abroad? UAE Golden Visa Holders Can Now Obtain Return Permit In 30 Mins
Step-by-Step: How To Apply For A Recognition Report
- Start New Application: Visit the Ministry of Education website and search for Recognition of University Certificates Issued Outside the UAE.
- Choose a Verification Partner: Select QuadraBay, DataFlow, or VFS Global, then sign in with your UAE Pass.
- Select the Verification Package: Match the package with your qualification type.
- Submit Details & Pay Fees: Upload all required documents and pay the verification fee.
- Verification by Partner: They’ll reach out to your university to confirm your degree’s authenticity.
- Receive Verification Report: Once verified, you’ll get a reference number.
- Complete MOE Application: Log in to the MOE portal, enter your verification reference number, and pay the recognition fee.
- Receive Your Recognition Report: Once approved, you’ll get an email with the final result: Recognised or Not Recognised. Download the report directly from your account.
Getting your foreign degrees recognised in the UAE may sound like a bit of paperwork, but it’s essential to unlock career and academic opportunities in the Emirates.
Cover Image Courtesy: CanvaPro/studioroman
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