Picture for illustrative purposes only. ARCHIVE

The UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has issued new policies governing the recognition of foreign university degrees, including stricter requirements for online education and distance learning programs. The revised framework introduces conditional recognition for degrees earned through non-traditional learning methods such as distance learning, open education, online programs, and correspondence education, provided they meet specific standards set by a dedicated ministerial committee. However, the ministry clarified that certain qualifications will not be recognized, including: - Vocational and training program certificates - Degrees awarded through specialized programs designed for specific student groups - Short-term academic courses that do not form part of a full degree program

Step-by-step process for degree recognition

To ensure foreign degrees meet UAE standards, the ministry requires applicants to undergo a two-step verification process: Verification of degree authenticity Applicants must have their degree authenticated by one of the ministry’s authorized agencies: Dataflow or QuadraBay. These agencies check the legitimacy of documents before submitting them for official recognition. Official recognition by the ministry Once verification is completed, applicants can apply for an official recognition report from the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. The service is fully online, with applications typically processed within 30 working days. Applicants who wish to appeal a recognition decision have up to three months to request a review.

Recognition criteria: Who qualifies?

The ministry emphasized that each case is evaluated individually, but degrees must meet these fundamental criteria: - The awarding institution must be accredited in its home country. - The student must follow the study methods approved by the university. - Online study hours cannot exceed 18 credit hours per semester (or the equivalent in similar systems). - Medical and engineering degree holders pursuing master’s or doctoral studies must have a bachelor’s degree in the same field.

Fees for degree recognition

The ministry has introduced the following fee structure for degree recognition applications: - Dh100 for a bachelor’s degree - Dh150 for a postgraduate degree - Dh200 for a doctoral degree Applicants must also pay additional verification costs, which vary based on the country of study and the fees imposed by the awarding institution. Payments can be made electronically via e-Dirham or postpaid cards.

Five key conditions for recognition

In addition to the general criteria, the ministry outlined five main conditions that must be met for a foreign degree to be recognized: - The student must follow the official study program set by the university. - The degree must comply with the ministry’s recognition requirements. If a student transfers between universities, the receiving institution must be licensed and accredited in its home country. For online learning, the university must be approved by the UAE ministry for distance education programs. For medical and engineering degrees, postgraduate applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree in the same field. The ministry emphasized that recognition policies align with global standards, ensuring that only legitimate and academically rigorous degrees are accepted for employment and further education within the UAE. Students seeking UAE recognition for foreign degrees are urged to verify their institution’s accreditation status and ensure compliance with the ministry’s requirements before applying. ICA/CAM/Expat Media
For all the latest news from the UAE and the world, follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and subscribe to our YouTube page