Germany Equivalence Procedures
Germany Equivalence Procedures: A Comprehensive Guide
If you are planning to pursue higher education or seeking professional opportunities in Germany, you might have already heard about the need for equivalence procedures. It is a critical requirement to prove that your educational degrees and qualifications are recognized and valued in Germany. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Germany equivalence procedures, including FAQs.
What are equivalence procedures?
Equivalence procedures, also known as recognition procedures, are mandatory for non-German citizens who want to work or study in Germany. These procedures are conducted to ensure that the educational qualifications gained in other countries match the standards set by the German education system.
An equivalence procedure is the process where a certificate or a degree obtained from another country is compared to a similar qualification offered in the corresponding German education system. The procedure can streamline the evaluation of foreign qualifications, ensuring that students and professionals are placed into the correct level of education or occupation in Germany.
Why are equivalence procedures important?
Equivalence procedures are necessary to ensure that students and professionals are qualified for the opportunities they seek. It guarantees that foreign qualifications are trustworthy and are equivalent to Germany’s educational and professional standards. Besides, it helps individuals avoid wasting their time and resources on pursuing degrees or professions that do not entail a higher chance of acceptance in Germany.
What are the types of equivalence procedures?
Recognition of prior learning (RPL): this type of equivalence procedure is for individuals who have completed vocational qualifications outside of Germany. It enables individuals to gain formal certification in Germany, for instance, through apprenticeship in the German system.
Recognition of foreign qualifications for working purposes: this type of equivalence procedure is for professionals who hold foreign qualifications that enable them to work in their home country. It permits individuals to work in specific fields in Germany for which they have already been trained.
Recognition of foreign qualifications for academic purposes: This type of equivalence procedure is for individuals who hold foreign academic qualifications and plan to pursue further study in Germany. It enables students to gain admission into German universities and attain the necessary criteria to succeed in their academic endeavors.
What are the steps involved in equivalence procedures?
The following is the general structure of equivalence procedures for non-German degrees and qualifications.
1. Obtain information about the process: Before initiating the equivalence procedure, it’s important to make sure that your degree is recognized in Germany. You should also identify the appropriate authorities or institutions responsible for conducting the equivalence procedure. You can get comprehensive information regarding recognition procedures from the Federal Government Commissioner for Migration, Refugees and Integration (Bundesbeauftragte für Migration, Flüchtlinge und Integration).
2. Submit an application to the designated authority or institution: The application will need to provide your details, educational qualifications, and other relevant documentation. The required documents can vary depending upon the type of procedure you are applying for.
3. Submission of required documents: Complete the application and submit all the essential documents, which may include translated copies of academic transcripts or certificates as well as proof of German language proficiency, IELTS, or TOEFL.
4. Evaluation process by authorities: The evaluation process can take several months, depending on the complexity of the case and the workload of the authorities. The evaluation committee will compare and assess the applicant’s educational qualifications and certifications with the relevant German qualifications.
5. Meet with authorities: Upon completion of the review process, applicants may be required to visit the designated authority to discuss the results.
6. Final decision: After the assessment, the authorities will issue a final decision on the recognition of the degree or qualification.
What are the documents required for equivalence procedures?
The required documents for Germany equivalence procedures vary depending upon the type of procedure you are applying for. However, some essential documents that need to be submitted are:
– Educational qualifications obtained from outside of Germany
– Translated copies of academic transcripts or certificates
– Proof of German language proficiency (IELTS or TOEFL)
– Identity proof documents such as passport or residence card
– Certified proof of prior relevant work experience
– Official identification documents of each of the referees noted on your documents.
What fees do I have to pay for the equivalence procedure?
The fee for the evaluation of an equivalence procedure depends on the type and complexity of the case and is determined by the designated evaluation authority. You must inquire with the specific institution or authority conducting the evaluation process to receive a conclusive invoice.
How long does the equivalence procedure take?
The duration for completing the procedure depends on various factors, including the type and complexity of the case, authority’s workload, and the applicant’s promptness in submitting relevant documents. Generally, the process may take a few months to up to a year.
What if my degree is not recognized?
If your degree is not recognized, you will have to take further coursework to meet the requirements of the corresponding German qualification. Alternatively, you may also consider pursuing a degree in the higher education institutions in Germany that provide a similar program for which your foreign degree has been unrecognized.
Conclusion
In summary, equivalence procedures are a mandatory process for non-German citizens seeking professional opportunities or academic pursuits in Germany. It is a critical requirement to demonstrate that educational degrees and qualifications obtained from outside Germany are recognized and match the standards set by the country’s educational and professional system. In this guide, we have covered general information regarding the various types of procedures, the essential documents required, the fees charged, and the duration involved in the process.
FAQs
Q. What is an equivalence process?
A. An equivalence procedure is the process where a certificate or degree obtained from another country is compared to the corresponding qualification offered in the German education system. It helps individuals gain an equal status and achieve success in higher education or profession in Germany.
Q. Why is the equivalence procedure important?
A. The equivalence procedure is essential as it ensures that foreign qualifications are trustworthy and equivalent to the German education and professional system.
Q. What is the duration required for the procedure to complete?
A. The time required for completing the procedure varies from several months to more than a year, depending on the type and complexity of the case and the workload of the designated authority.
Q. How much does the procedure cost?
A. The fee charged for the procedure depends upon the type and complexity of the case and is determined by the designated evaluation authority.
Q. What if my degree is not recognized?
A. If your degree is not recognized, you will have to take further coursework to meet the requirements of the corresponding German qualification or consider pursuing a degree in a German higher education institution that provides a similar program for which your foreign degree has been unrecognized.