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Directive on Educational Credentials Authentication and Equivalency (Directive No. 990/2024)

Ministry of Education990/2024

Summary

This directive outlines the procedures and requirements for the authentication and equivalency evaluation of educational credentials obtained from local and foreign institutions. It specifies the necessary documents, preconditions, and processes for various levels of education, including undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral degrees, as well as credentials obtained through cross-border and online education. The directive also covers grievance procedures and conditions for amendment.

Who's affected

Individuals seeking to have their educational credentials verified or evaluated for equivalency, including students, graduates, and those seeking employment or further education in Ethiopia.

Action required

Review the specific requirements and documentation needed for authentication or equivalency evaluation based on your educational level and the issuing institution, and prepare the necessary documents for submission to the Ministry of Education.

Key points

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  • The directive applies to both local and foreign educational credentials.
  • Specific documentation is required for each educational level (undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral).
  • Equivalency evaluation considers the Ethiopian qualification framework.
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    • Procedures for handling grievances and amendments are outlined.
    • Credentials obtained through online or cross-border education are addressed.

Requirements

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  • Completion of the educational program and graduation.
  • Submission of a formal application for authentication or equivalency.
  • Filling in mandatory applicant information in the authority's database.
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    • Submission of authenticated higher education entrance certificates.
    • Original educational certificates and transcripts with required signatures, seals, and details.
    • Evidence of passing exit exams where applicable.
    • Proof of completion of bridge courses for postgraduate studies.
    • Legal representation documents for applications submitted through a representative.
    • Specific documents for different degree levels (First, Master's, Doctoral).
    • Documents for credentials obtained through cross-border and online education.
    • Equivalence evaluation certificate from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ethiopian Embassy for foreign credentials.
    • Passport, visa, or residence permit for foreign applicants demonstrating presence in the country of origin during studies.
    • Accreditation of the foreign institution.
    • Compliance with cut-off points for higher education admission.
    • English language proficiency evidence for certain professions.

Rights and permissions

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  • The right to have educational credentials authenticated or evaluated for equivalency.
  • The right to file grievances regarding decisions made by the service provider.
  • The right to receive replacement equivalence certificates if the original is lost, provided all criteria are met.

Restrictions

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  • Educational credentials must be from accredited institutions.
  • Credentials not used for admission in any level of education are not acceptable for authentication.
  • Certain types of educational credentials (e.g., religious credentials) are not eligible for equivalence evaluation.
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    • Course exemptions exceeding 1/3 of total credit hours are not accepted.
    • Course exemptions with grades below 'C' are not acceptable.
    • Credentials obtained from unlicensed institutions or institutions dismissed for rule violations are not accepted.
    • Temporary certificates are only valid for a limited period with renewals.
    • Foreign applicants may need to demonstrate English language proficiency.
    • Online learning institutions must have institutional or program accreditation.

Penalties

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  • Revocation or cancellation of equivalence certificates issued through unfair or improper means.
  • Requirement to return revoked or cancelled certificates to the authority.
  • Potential denial of services for non-compliance with directive requirements.

Objectives

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  • To establish a clear and standardized procedure for authenticating educational credentials.
  • To ensure the equivalency of foreign educational credentials with the Ethiopian qualification framework.
  • To prevent the use of fraudulent or unrecognized educational documents.
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    • To provide a framework for fair and transparent evaluation of academic qualifications.

Organizations

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  • Ministry of Education
  • Ministry of Justice
  • Ethiopian Embassy
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    • Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia
    • Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Executive Bodies

Legal references

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  • Proclamation No. 1263/2021, Article 19, Sub-article 4
  • Higher Education Proclamation No. 1152/2019
  • Council of Ministers Regulation No. 515/2021
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    • Technical and Vocational Training Proclamation No. 954/2016
Original sourcehttps://justice.gov.et/en/directives/directive-on-educational-credentials-authentication-and-equivalency-directive-no-990-2024/
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