In the competitive United Arab Emirates (UAE) landscape,  an internationally recognized academic background is essential for those aiming to work, study, or secure a Golden Visa. To unlock these opportunities, authenticate your qualifications through the Ministry of Education (MoE) – the UAE regulatory authority for education, and obtain a Certificate of Recognition, also known as an equivalency certificate.

This blog guides you through the MoE equivalency application process, providing a step-by-step guide on how to apply.

What is a Certificate of Recognition?

A UAE equivalency certificate affirms that your degree is from an accredited international university, meeting the criteria, guidelines, and global academic standards set by the MoE. This validation ensures the quality of the workforce’s academic and professional competence.

Who needs an equivalency certificate in the UAE?

Anyone with an academic qualification, from secondary school to Doctorate, can obtain this certificate. It’s often mandatory for various pursuits in the UAE, including:

  • Employment (mandatory for specific roles in healthcare, teaching, engineering, and government)
  • Pursuing higher education
  • Applying for a Society of Engineers License in Dubai (SOE) Card
  • Applying for a UAE Golden Visa

When should I apply?

You can initiate your MoE equivalency application before securing a job offer or gaining admission to a higher education institution in the UAE. Physical presence in the UAE is not required to start this process, prompting many to apply well before applying or receiving an offer. Acquiring this certification can also expand job prospects and increase the potential for a more lucrative income.

Before starting your equivalency application, you must verify your degree through one of the MoE’s trusted primary source verification partners. Starting this process early is recommended, as it can take up to 30 days after submitting your application to receive the verification document. You cannot submit your equivalency application cannot without it.

Documents Required for MoE Equivalency

Required documents for MoE equivalency vary by specialization and generally include:

  • Degree verification document from DataFlow
  • Embassy verification or scholarship letter (for Emirati nationals)
  • Diploma or graduation certificate with transcripts

Check the MoE website for specific requirements.

How To Obtain a Certificate of Recognition

Let’s guide you through the MoE equivalency application process:

Step 1: Gather the Required Documents

Before starting your MoE equivalency application, gather the necessary documents, including educational transcripts, degree or diploma certifications, and a valid passport.

To complete your application, obtain a UAE PASS, the country’s digital identity. Download the app from Google Play or the App Store and register for a free account with a valid Emirates or GCC ID, or passport.

Step 2: Get Your Degree Verified With DataFlow

You must verify your degree before applying for your equivalency certificate. DataFlow will confirm your degree or validate a verification letter from your embassy of the country where you studied, a separate process from embassy attestation. If you have a scholarship (applicable for UAE nationals), DataFlow will validate that as well.

DataFlow will process supplementary documents needed by MoE based on your specialization and degree level, such as an abstract letter, research paper, and proof of residence.

Step 3: Complete Your MoE Application

After receiving your verification report from DataFlow, apply for your Certificate of Recognition on the MoE website. Log in or register for an account with your UAE PASS, ensuring your application details match the information on your supporting documents.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

Complete your application by paying the non-refundable fee on the MoE portal – fees vary (100 AED for an undergraduate degree, 150 AED for a postgraduate degree, 200 AED for a doctorate).

Step 5: Obtaining your Certification of Recognition

After review, the MoE will grant equivalency or reject your application. If approved, your certificate will be issued within two days to your registered email address.

Resources and Support Available During the Application Process

Throughout your application, a range of resources and support is available to assist you in obtaining this essential certificate.

For your DataFlow report:

For your Certificate of Registration application, check out:

  • MoE website
  • Customer Happiness Centers
  • Hotline service

Ready to start your MoE equivalency application?

Obtaining a Certificate of Recognition is crucial, especially for professionals seeking employment in high-risk industries like healthcare, engineering, or construction.

Before you start your application, ensure your degree is verified with DataFlow. Our trusted and efficient qualification check and verification services guarantee that your qualifications meet the requirements, increasing your chances of a successful application with the Ministry of Education.

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