If you’ve completed your education outside the UAE and plan to work or study in the country, you’ll need an equivalency certificate UAE. This document is issued by the Ministry of Education (MOE) to confirm that your foreign academic qualifications are recognized and equivalent to the UAE’s education standards. The equivalency certificate UAE is essential for employment, higher studies, or professional licensing across various sectors.
In this article, you’ll learn the full process, required documents, eligibility criteria, and tips to make your equivalency certificate UAE application easier and faster.
What is an Equivalency Certificate UAE?
An equivalency certificate UAE is an official document issued by the UAE Ministry of Education that validates the authenticity and level of an academic degree earned abroad. It confirms that the degree aligns with the UAE’s educational framework, ensuring that your foreign qualification holds the same value as a local degree.
This certification is necessary for:
Employment in government or private sectors
Admission into universities or higher education institutions
Professional license applications (especially for doctors, engineers, and teachers)
Visa processing for skilled professionals
Why Do You Need an Equivalency Certificate in UAE?
Obtaining an equivalency certificate UAE is a mandatory step for most expatriates and professionals. Here’s why it’s important:
✅ Recognition of your degree by UAE authorities
✅ Eligibility for employment in regulated industries
✅ Acceptance by universities for postgraduate or higher studies
✅ Compliance with MOE requirements for professional licensing
✅ Proof of legitimacy for foreign qualifications
Without this document, even a highly qualified candidate may face rejection during job verification or university admissions.
Documents Required for Equivalency Certificate UAE
Before applying for an equivalency certificate UAE, make sure you prepare the following documents:
Original degree certificate (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD)
Final transcript or mark sheet
UAE Embassy Attestation from the country where the degree was earned
MOFA Attestation Dubai (Ministry of Foreign Affairs UAE)
Copy of valid passport and UAE visa
Emirates ID (for residents)
Accreditation letter or recognition proof from the awarding university
Thesis or dissertation (for master’s and PhD degrees)
Make sure all documents are attested properly before submission, as unverified certificates will not be accepted.
Step-by-Step Process for Equivalency Certificate UAE
Here’s a detailed guide on how to apply for an equivalency certificate UAE through the Ministry of Education’s system:
Step 1: Attestation of Academic Documents
Before applying, get your degree attested by:
Higher Education Commission (HEC) or relevant board in your home country
Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in your home country
UAE Embassy Attestation in that country
After arriving in the UAE, get your documents further attested by MOFA Attestation Dubai.
Step 2: Create a MOE Account
Visit the official Ministry of Education (MOE) website and create an account using your Emirates ID and email. You’ll find the “Qualification Equivalency” section in the services menu.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
Log in and upload scanned copies of your attested degree, transcripts, passport, visa, and other supporting documents. Ensure that the uploaded files are clear, complete, and in PDF format.
Step 4: Submit the Application
Once all documents are uploaded, submit your equivalency certificate UAE application. You will receive a confirmation email with a reference number to track your submission status.
Step 5: Evaluation and Verification
The MOE evaluates your application and may contact the issuing university or embassy for verification. This step ensures that your degree was earned from an accredited institution and meets UAE academic standards.
Step 6: Receive the Equivalency Certificate
Once approved, the equivalency certificate UAE is issued electronically and sent to your registered email. You can download and print it for use in job applications, admissions, or visa processing.
Processing Time for Equivalency Certificate UAE
The processing time may vary depending on your case and the country of your qualification. On average, it takes:
10 to 15 working days for Bachelor’s degrees
20 to 30 working days for Master’s and PhD degrees
Delays may occur if your documents need further verification or additional attestation.
Common Reasons for Delays or Rejection
To avoid problems, make sure your application is error-free. Common issues that cause delays or rejections include:
Missing attestation from the issuing country or UAE Embassy
Unaccredited university or online degree programs
Mismatched details between degree and passport
Incomplete or unclear document scans
Missing thesis or research work (for higher degrees)
Always double-check requirements before submission and ensure your degree is from a recognized university listed by the UAE Ministry of Education.
How to Check Equivalency Certificate Status
You can track your equivalency certificate UAE application online by logging into your MOE account. The system provides real-time updates such as:
Application received
Under verification
Pending additional documents
Approved / Rejected
This transparency helps applicants monitor their progress and avoid unnecessary delays.
Tips to Speed Up Your Equivalency Process
✔ Prepare all attested documents before applying.
✔ Ensure your degree is from an accredited institution recognized by the MOE.
✔ Upload clear and properly named files.
✔ Use official channels for communication with MOE.
✔ Keep track of your reference number for quick follow-ups.
These steps help avoid rejection and ensure a smooth application process.
Professional Assistance for Equivalency Certificate UAE
If you find the process complicated, professional attestation and equivalency services can help. They handle your:
Degree certificate attestation
UAE embassy attestation
MOFA attestation Dubai
Submission and follow-up with the Ministry of Education
These services are especially useful for applicants unfamiliar with the UAE’s documentation requirements or those living abroad.
Conclusion
The equivalency certificate UAE is an essential document that validates your foreign academic qualifications and opens doors for better opportunities in the country. Whether you’re applying for a new job, pursuing higher education, or seeking a professional license, this certification ensures your credentials are officially recognized.
By carefully following the process, completing all attestations, and submitting accurate documents, you can obtain your equivalency certificate UAE smoothly and efficiently. Always stay updated with the Ministry of Education’s latest guidelines to ensure compliance and successful approval.
