Recognition of Foreign Qualifications in the RA

The recognition of foreign qualifications in Armenia is a multi-faceted process that distinguishes between academic recognition (for further studies) and professional recognition (for employment). Armenia’s adherence to international agreements, particularly in the European region the Lisbon Recognition Convention (LRC) and its participation in the Bologna Process heavily influences its approach.

For other regions recognition is inspired by the Tokyo Convention (Asia-Pacific Region) or the Global Recognition Convention.

Academic recognition is primarily for individuals seeking to continue their education in Armenia (e.g., entering higher education after completion of a foreign secondary education, pursuing a Master’s degree after a foreign Bachelor’s, or a PhD after a foreign Master’s). In this case ArmENIC evaluates the foreign qualifications by comparing them with the similar national qualifications and levels it in the Armenian National Qualifications Framework.

Process

  1. Application to ArmENIC: The applicants typically submit their foreign qualifications (diplomas with transcripts or diploma supplement, degree certificates) to the center. It is highly recommended to initiate this step even before applying to a specific university.
  2. Evaluation by ArmENIC: ArmENIC experts assess the foreign qualifications by comparing them to the similar national qualifications. Typically, the evaluation process takes into account the following information:
    • Accreditation status of the issuing institution and program in the country of origin;
    • Level, content, and nominal duration of study programs in credits and actual duration of studies, if applicable.
    • Profile of qualifications, achieved learning outcomes, study mode.
    • Comparability of the qualification’s level to a corresponding national qualification.
  4. Issuance of an Advisory Statement. Based on the evaluation, ArmENIC issues an advisory statement which provides information on status of institution, level and comparability of the foreign qualification in Armenia, academic and professional rights assigned to the qualification. It’s important to underline that an advisory statement, is not a final recognition decision.
  5. Application to a Higher Education Institution: The applicant then applies to the preferred Armenian HEI for admission to a study program including ArmENIC’s advice document as part of their application.
  6. HEI’s Final Decision: HEIs are the ultimate authorities for making the final academic recognition decision for admission purposes. They are expected to consider ArmENIC’s advice. According to the LRC principles, if there are no “substantial differences” between the foreign qualification and the relevant national qualification, it should be recognized. If substantial differences exist, the HEI may impose compensatory measures (e.g., additional courses, exams) before granting full recognition.