If you plan to continue your education in Serbia, having your previous educational qualifications recognised is a necessary step. The process ensures that your foreign qualifications are equated to the corresponding public documents in Serbia, enabling you to continue your studies. The recognition procedure differs based on the level of education you wish to have recognised and is handled by authorised institutions in Serbia.
What Is Recognition of Previous Education?
Recognition of education is the process through which qualifications earned abroad are officially evaluated and equated to Serbian educational standards. Once your foreign qualification is recognised, you gain the right to continue your education or use your qualification for employment purposes in Serbia.
The process usually involves submitting an application along with the required documents to the relevant authority. Depending on the level of your education, you may need to approach different institutions to initiate the process.
Recognition of High School Diplomas
If you intend to enrol in a bachelor’s programme in Serbia, you must have your high school diploma recognised. This is done through the ENIC-NARIC centre, a qualifications agency operating under the Serbian Ministry of Education.
Documents Required for High School Diploma Recognition:
- A completed request for recognition of a foreign secondary school document
- The original high school diploma and a certified translation
- Transcripts or evidence of all previously completed grades
- Proof of payment for the recognition service fee
Detailed guidance on how to submit your request, including a checklist of necessary documents, is available on the website of the Qualifications Agency. For more information, you can also consult the Recognition of Foreign Primary and Secondary School and Higher Education Documents brochure.
Processing Time:
The recognition process for high school diplomas usually takes up to 60 days from the date the completed application is received. However, it is recommended to confirm timelines directly with the Qualifications Agency, as they may vary.
Recognition of University Degrees
The process for recognising university degrees is handled by the higher education institution where you plan to continue your studies. Each institution may have its own specific requirements and procedures, so it is essential to contact the institution directly to understand their process.
General Steps for University Degree Recognition:
- Submit an application form, either in person or by post.
- Provide the original degree certificate and a certified translation.
- Include a transcript or a short description of the courses, along with the curriculum of the completed studies.
- Submit a photocopy of your passport or ID card.
- Provide proof of payment for the recognition fee.
Specific Institution Procedures:
Each university has its own policies for degree recognition. For detailed information, consult the relevant institution’s guidelines:
The timelines and documentation requirements may vary, so contacting the university directly is strongly recommended.
Why Recognition Is Important
Recognition ensures that your qualifications are aligned with Serbian education standards, allowing you to seamlessly integrate into the Serbian academic system. It is a necessary step for enrolling in Serbian institutions and for validating your credentials for employment.
Tips for a Smooth Recognition Process
- Start Early: Seeing that the recognition process can be time consuming, we suggest initiating the process as soon as you decide to study in Serbia.
- Verify Requirements: Different institutions may have varying requirements, so confirm the exact documentation you will need before submitting your application.
- Keep Copies: Ensure you retain copies of all submitted documents for your records.
- Contact Institutions: Reach out to the Qualifications Agency or your chosen university for any clarifications to avoid delays.
