🎓 How to Get Your Foreign Degree Recognized in India – A Step-by-Step Guide

Studying abroad is a dream for many Indians, but what happens when you return to India and need your foreign degree recognized for jobs, further studies, or government exams? Whether you're an NRI or an Indian student returning after international education, degree equivalency is often required.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the process smoothly.

❓ Why Do You Need Degree Recognition in India?

Recognition of a foreign degree is crucial for:

• Applying to postgraduate programs in Indian universities
• Qualifying for government jobs (UPSC, SSC, PSUs)
• Pursuing regulated professions like law, medicine, architecture, etc.
• Applying for higher education scholarships
• Getting your degree evaluated for private sector jobs in some cases

🏛️ Which Authority Recognizes Foreign Degrees in India?

The primary body responsible for foreign degree recognition is:

✅ Association of Indian Universities (AIU)

Website: www.aiu.ac.in

AIU issues an Equivalence Certificate that confirms your foreign degree is comparable to an Indian qualification.

📋 Documents Required for Degree Recognition

Before applying, keep these documents ready:

1. Mark sheets and final degree certificate (translated into English if needed)
2. Accreditation proof of your foreign university/institution
3. Copy of passport (pages showing visa and entry-exit stamps)
4. Transcript or course curriculum (if available)
5. Fees payment proof

📝 Step-by-Step Process to Get AIU Equivalence Certificate

Step 1: Visit the AIU Portal

Go to: https://evaluation.aiu.ac.in

Step 2: Register and Fill Application

Create an account, fill in your degree and personal details, and upload scanned copies of all required documents.

Step 3: Pay the Processing Fee

As of now, the fee is around ₹12,000 for foreign degree evaluation. This may vary by degree type and mode (online/offline).

Step 4: Wait for Processing

The AIU takes about 15–30 working days to issue the certificate (may take longer if documents are incomplete).

Step 5: Receive Your Certificate

You’ll receive the equivalence certificate digitally and/or by post. Keep it safe—most institutions and employers will ask for a copy.

🧾 Special Notes for Professional Degrees

• Medicine (MBBS): Must be recognized by the National Medical Commission (NMC)
• Law: Bar Council of India requires separate approval
• Engineering: AICTE or relevant state body may be involved
• Architecture: Council of Architecture (CoA) recognition is required

Each of these has additional processes, so check the respective council’s website.

🇮🇳 What If Your Degree Is Not Recognized?

If your institution is not accredited or your course doesn’t meet Indian standards:

• You may need to appear for bridge exams or qualifying tests
• You might consider enrolling in an Indian PG diploma or certification
• In some cases, private companies may still accept your degree even without official recognition

📌 Tips for a Smooth Recognition Process

• Check if your foreign university is recognized in its home country before enrolling abroad
• Keep attested copies and scans of all documents
• Start the equivalence process early, especially if applying to Indian universities
• Join forums or NRI groups (like AbroadSaathi) to learn from others' experience

🌐 Alternative: Credential Evaluation Services

Some private services like WES India offer credential evaluations for foreign degrees, but these are mostly used for education abroad, not in India.

Stick to AIU for Indian government and university recognition.

✨ Final Thoughts

Returning to India after international education doesn’t have to be complicated—just make sure you get your degree recognized the right way and at the right time. Whether you're applying for a master’s, a competitive exam, or a public sector job, this step is essential for smooth career progress.

📱 Need Help or Community Support?

Use the AbroadSaathi App to connect with Indian returnees, get document checklists, and stay updated with AIU and NMC announcements.

Available on Play Store and App Store – Your Saathi for all things abroad and back!