In a major policy shift, the UAE Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has introduced stricter guidelines for degrees obtained via online learning, distance education, and correspondence courses. While such degrees will now be considered for recognition, they must meet strict criteria set by a dedicated ministerial committee.

However, vocational certificates and training programme diplomas won’t make the cut, along with degrees from courses catering to niche student groups.

Degree Verification Gets a Makeover

To streamline the process, the ministry has roped in two external agencies — Dataflow and QuadraBay — to handle degree verification and equivalency certification.

Applicants must first verify their qualifications with these authorised partners, ensuring their documents are legitimate. Only after this step can they apply for official recognition from the ministry.

The entire process is online and takes around 30 working days. Those who wish to challenge a decision have three months to lodge an appeal.

Strict Criteria for Recognition

Each case will be reviewed individually, but the bottom line is clear:

• The awarding university must be accredited in its home country.
• Study methods must comply with the university’s official guidelines.
• No shortcuts — vocational certificates, short-term training programs, and degrees from specialist courses will not be recognised.

What Will It Cost You?

The ministry has set fees for degree recognition:

• Dh100 for a bachelor’s degree
• Dh150 for a postgraduate degree
• Dh200 for a doctoral degree

The cost of initial verification varies based on the country of study, and payments can be made online via e-Dirham or postpaid cards.

Five Key Rules for Recognition

To qualify, applicants must:

1. Follow the study programme as outlined by their university.
2. Meet all ministry recognition requirements.
3. Ensure their university is accredited in its home country.
4. Stick to the UAE’s online study limits—no more than 18 credit hours per semester for distance learning.
5. For medical and engineering degrees, postgraduate applicants must hold a related bachelor’s degree.

This move is set to impact thousands of students and professionals seeking UAE recognition for their qualifications. For those with degrees from unconventional routes, the message is clear: meet the criteria or risk rejection.

(Source: GT)