Criteria for the Conversion of Foreign Diplomas in Albania

* Material sent by Dr. Ledian Fezollari *

1. What are the documents needed to convert the diploma?

1. Request addressed to the Directorate of Higher Education and Diploma Recognition.
2. Copies of the diploma or certificate in the language of the country where you studied, translated into Albanian and notarized.
3. Copies of the transcript in the language of the country where you studied, translated into Albanian and notarized.
4. Official detailed program of studies confirmed by the institution where you studied and obtained the diploma or certificate, translated into Albanian and notarized.
5. Appendix to the diploma (if any).
6. Copies of the passport and the original birth certificate with a photograph.
7. Marriage certificate (if married).
8. Completed original application form.
9. Payment receipt.
10. Two photographs.

2. Why do I need the recognition of qualifications obtained abroad?

To enroll in a study program at a Higher Education Institution (HEI) in Albania.

When applying for a job or simply to clarify opportunities for education or employment through comparison with the levels of the Albanian higher education system.

3. How long does the recognition procedure take?

The recognition procedure takes 45 days from the moment your file is considered complete. The procedure may extend beyond this period in cases where there are delays in responses from other institutions related to document verification submitted by the applicant.

4. How much do I have to pay for the recognition of my diploma/diplomas?

You need to pay 2500 lek at one of the designated banks; see the Diploma Recognition link on the main page of MASH, www.mash.gov.al.

5. Should I also submit the document of completion of high school and/or the first cycle of university studies?

As a rule, you should submit the documents for the level of study you wish to recognize. In special cases, SENJOD may request documents for a level lower than the one you are seeking to recognize.

6. Should I submit original documents?

You must submit notarized copies of the original documents. However, in special cases, SENJOD may also request the submission of original documents.

7. Do I need to translate the documents I want to recognize?

Documents in English, French, and Italian do not need translation. Documents in other languages must be submitted translated and notarized.

8. Can you also convert the grades?

SENJOD does not convert grades. Grade conversion is done by the higher education institution where you wish to enroll.

9. Will work experience be considered when it comes to recognizing foreign diplomas?

No, work experience is not part of the assessment of academic credentials. However, in your CV, you should include your professional experience because it helps recognition specialists better understand the context of your education and employment (especially in the context of long-term specializations in medicine, law, etc.).

10. Can I request a review if I disagree with the recognition?

Yes, you can request a review of the recognition decision through an official request addressed to the Diploma Recognition Commission within the specified time frame.

Diploma Recognition Application.

The application file must include the following documents:

1. Completed application form;
2. Diploma or certificate/verification of the diploma;
3. Transcript or diploma supplement;
4. Official identity document: copy of the passport and identity card for Albanian and foreign citizens;
5. Payment receipt.

Documents are accepted in originals or notarized copies. At least one of the basic documents confirming the graduation or successful completion of the course of study to be recognized must be legalized with the Apostille Seal or by the Albanian Embassy or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Albania.

The application must be sent by mail to the Public Relations Office of MASH.

Within 3 (three) days, the Diploma Recognition Sector (SENJOD) informs the applicant about the arrival and completeness of the file. The application is not considered complete if one of the above documents is missing.

Notification can be sent by email or regular mail. If communication is by email, confirmation of receipt must be confirmed by the applicant.

Verification of Document Authenticity

SENJOD performs verification for all cases, including direct recognition, of the authenticity of the diploma and the legitimacy of the issuing institution.

Status and legitimacy of the diploma.

Written or printed materials for all verifications performed are deposited in the applicant's file.

Diploma Recognition Commission

The applicant's file is submitted to the MASH Diploma Recognition Commission no later than 35 (thirty-five) days from its arrival at MASH, when it is complete.

Within 1 (one) week of receiving the file, the Recognition Commission may decide on recognition or may decide to return the file to SENJOD for necessary supplements in documentation.

At the end of the procedure, the applicant is issued a recognition certificate by MASH, no later than one week from the completion of the procedure. The certificate is signed by the Chairman of the Recognition Commission.

In cases of non-recognition of the course of study and qualification obtained, within 5 (five) days from the completion of the procedure for recognition, the Chairman of the Commission notifies the applicant in writing of non-recognition and the relevant reasons.

The entire procedure for the recognition of diplomas and certificates at MASH is completed within 45 (forty-five) days from the day the application file is completed with the required documentation according to point 2.1 of this guideline.