Education and Qualification Recognition in Philippines

1. How does Philippines recognize foreign education and qualifications?


The Philippines recognizes foreign education and qualifications through a process called “credential evaluation”. This is done by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC), which are responsible for regulating higher education institutions and professional licensing in the country.

Under this process, individuals with foreign education or qualifications need to submit their original academic documents, such as transcripts of records and diploma, to CHED or PRC for verification. These documents will be evaluated based on standards set by the Philippine government and compared with the Philippine education system.

Depending on the results of the evaluation, CHED or PRC may issue a certificate of recognition or equivalency that states the level of education attained by an individual. This certificate can then be used for employment or further studies in the Philippines.

Individuals who wish to practice certain professions in the Philippines also need to undergo credential evaluation by PRC. This is to ensure that they meet the necessary qualifications and competency standards set for their respective professions.

Overall, credential evaluation is a crucial step in recognizing foreign education and qualifications in the Philippines, as it ensures that individuals have met acceptable standards and are eligible to pursue their desired careers in the country.

2. What is the process for obtaining recognition of overseas education in Philippines?


The process for obtaining recognition of overseas education in the Philippines varies depending on the specific type of recognition being sought. Generally, there are two main types of recognition: recognition as an equivalent degree or accreditation by a professional regulatory body.

1. Recognition as an Equivalent Degree:
a. Submission of documents: The first step is to submit all necessary documents to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). These include official transcript of records, diploma, course descriptions, syllabi, and other relevant documents.
b. Evaluation by CHED: The submitted documents will be evaluated by CHED to determine if the overseas education is equivalent or comparable to a degree program in the Philippines.
c. External evaluation: If deemed necessary, CHED may request for an external evaluation from a recognized accreditation agency such as the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges and Universities (PAASCU) or the Federation of Accrediting Agencies in the Philippines (FAAP).
d. Decision and issuance of Certificate of Equivalency: After thorough evaluation, CHED will make a decision and issue a Certificate of Equivalency if the overseas education is found to be equivalent to a degree program in the Philippines.

2. Accreditation by Professional Regulatory Body:
a. Submission of documents: Similar to recognition as an equivalent degree, applicants must submit all necessary documents to their respective Professional Regulatory Board (PRB). These may include transcripts, diplomas, certificates showing proof of licensure or registration from other countries.
b. Assessment by PRB: The PRB will assess if the applicant meets all requirements for accreditation based on specific standards set by each profession.
c. Examination or additional requirements: Depending on the profession, applicants may be required to take an examination or fulfill additional requirements such as training programs or work experience.
d. Issuance of License/Certificate/Registration: If an applicant meets all requirements for accreditation, the PRB will issue a license/certificate/registration, allowing them to practice their profession in the Philippines.

It is important to note that the process and requirements may vary depending on the profession and the specific agency involved. It is best to consult with CHED or the relevant PRB for more information on the specific process for obtaining recognition of overseas education.

3. Are there specific organizations or agencies responsible for recognition of foreign qualifications in Philippines?


Yes, the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) are responsible for the recognition and evaluation of foreign qualifications in the Philippines. CHED evaluates foreign diplomas and degrees for purposes of immigration and employment, while PRC evaluates foreign professional qualifications for licensure and registration in regulated professions.

4. Do I need to have my educational documents translated into the local language for recognition in Philippines?


Yes, you will likely need to have your educational documents translated into the local language for recognition in the Philippines. This is usually a requirement for most countries when evaluating foreign qualifications. It is recommended to have your documents translated by a certified translator or an authorized translation agency to ensure accuracy and meet any specific requirements set by the Philippine authorities.

5. Is the recognition process different for different types of education, such as vocational training or university degrees?


Yes, the recognition process can vary depending on the type of education attained. For vocational training or technical qualifications, the recognition process may involve a skills assessment or evaluation of work experience in addition to academic credentials. For university degrees, the recognition process may be more focused on evaluating the academic curriculum and comparing it to the standards of the country where recognition is being sought. In general, each type of education may have its own specific criteria and requirements for recognition.

6. How long does the recognition process typically take in Philippines?


The recognition process in the Philippines can take anywhere from six months to two years, depending on the specific requirements and processes of each case. This timeline may also be affected by any delays in submitting required documents, scheduling interviews or exams, and other factors.

7. Are there any fees associated with having my education and qualifications recognized in Philippines?


Yes, there may be fees associated with having your education and qualifications recognized in the Philippines. The specific fees will vary depending on the type of evaluation or recognition required and the institution/agency responsible for conducting the evaluation. It is best to reach out to the relevant institution/agency for information on their specific fee schedule.

8. Can I appeal a decision made by the recognition authority in Philippines?

Yes, you may appeal a decision made by the recognition authority in Philippines. You can submit an appeal request to the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), which is the final arbiter in matters of recognition of higher education institutions and their programs in Philippines. The CHED will review your case and make a decision based on their evaluation of the evidence provided.

9. Does Philippines offer partial recognition for degrees or qualifications obtained abroad?


No, the Philippines does not offer partial recognition for degrees or qualifications obtained abroad. All foreign degrees and qualifications must undergo the full evaluation process by the relevant government agencies to determine their equivalency in the Philippines.

10. What documentation do I need to provide for my education and qualifications to be recognized in Philippines?


The documentation required for the recognition of education and qualifications in Philippines may vary depending on the specific requirements of the institution or organization you are applying to. However, some common documents that may be required are:

1. Original or certified copies of your educational certificates and transcripts

2. Certified English translations of your academic documents if they are not in English

3. An evaluation report from a recognized credential evaluation service (if applicable)

4. Proof of identity, such as a valid passport or national ID card

5. Professional credentials or certifications (if applicable)

6. Letters of recommendation from previous teachers, professors, or employers

7. A resume or curriculum vitae detailing your educational background and work experience

8. A statement of purpose explaining why you wish to have your education recognized in Philippines

9. Any other relevant supporting documents, such as awards, publications, or research papers.

It is always recommended to check with the specific institution or organization for their specific requirements before submitting your application for recognition of education and qualifications.

11. Are there any English language proficiency requirements for recognizing foreign education and qualifications in Philippines?


Yes, there are English language proficiency requirements for recognizing foreign education and qualifications in the Philippines. The Commission on Higher Education (CHED) and Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) require applicants to meet a certain level of English proficiency before they can be recognized as equivalent to local degrees or qualifications.

In general, international students must provide proof of English proficiency through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. They may also be required to take an English proficiency exam given by CHED or PRC.

The specific requirements and passing scores may vary depending on the institution or profession. It is best to check with the specific authority responsible for recognizing foreign education and qualifications for the most up-to-date requirements.

12. Does [Country’s] government maintain a list of accredited universities or institutions from which they recognize degrees and qualifications?


Yes, [Country’s] government maintains a list of accredited universities and institutions from which they recognize degrees and qualifications. This list is typically maintained by the Ministry of Education or a similar governmental organization responsible for overseeing higher education in [Country].

13. Is it possible to obtain professional licensure or certification with a recognized foreign qualification in Philippines?


Yes, it is possible to obtain professional licensure or certification with a recognized foreign qualification in the Philippines. However, the specific requirements and processes may differ depending on the profession or field you wish to practice. It is best to consult with the respective government agencies or professional regulatory boards for more information. Generally, you will need to submit proof of your foreign qualification and undergo an evaluation process by the relevant authority to determine if your education and training meet the local standards for licensure or certification. You may also be required to take additional exams or undergo a period of supervised practice before being granted a license or certification.

14. Will my salary be affected by having a recognized foreign qualification compared to a domestic one in Philippines?


In most cases, having a recognized foreign qualification will not affect your salary in the Philippines. Employers generally value qualifications based on their relevance and quality, rather than their origin. However, it is possible that some employers may offer higher salaries to those with international qualifications due to perceived prestige or specialized skills. Additionally, certain industries or companies may have specific requirements for certain positions that require a certain type of qualification. It is best to research the job market and salary trends in your field to get a better understanding of how your qualification may impact your earning potential.

15. Do I need to have my educational qualifications assessed by an evaluation service before applying for recognition in Philippines?


It depends on the specific requirements of the organization or institution you are applying to for recognition. It is best to check with them directly to determine if they require an evaluation of your educational qualifications before submitting your application.

16. What support services are available to assist with the education and qualification recognition process in Philippines, such as career counseling or job placement assistance?


There are several support services and resources available in Philippines to assist with the education and qualification recognition process, including:

1. Commission on Higher Education (CHED): This agency is responsible for the regulation and management of higher education institutions in the Philippines. They have a website that provides information on accredited programs and institutions.

2. Professional Regulation Commission (PRC): This agency oversees the licensing and registration of professionals in various fields, such as engineering, nursing, teaching, etc. PRC has career counseling services available for individuals seeking guidance on career options and opportunities.

3. Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE): DOLE offers job placement assistance through its Public Employment Service Offices (PESOs) located in different regions across Philippines.

4. Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA): POEA assists Filipino workers who wish to work overseas by providing information on job vacancies, pre-employment orientation seminars, and employment counseling.

5. Private training centers or review centers: Many private organizations offer courses or training programs that can help individuals upgrade their skills and qualifications.

6. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs): Some NGOs provide career counseling services to help individuals identify their strengths, interests, and career goals.

7. University/college alumni associations: These associations can provide networking opportunities and job placement assistance to graduates looking for employment opportunities.

8. Online platforms: Websites like JobStreet or LinkedIn can be helpful in finding job opportunities and connecting with potential employers.

It is recommended to do some research beforehand to find the most suitable support service based on your needs and goals.

17.Higher Educational Qualification Recognized by Employment Standards Bureau.


The Employment Standards Bureau recognizes higher educational qualifications as any degree, diploma, certificate, or other educational credential that is issued by an accredited institution of higher education. This includes universities, colleges, vocational schools, and professional organizations.

Examples of higher educational qualifications recognized by the Employment Standards Bureau include:

1. Bachelor’s degrees in various fields such as business, psychology, nursing, engineering, computer science, etc.
2. Master’s degrees in various fields such as education, social work, public health, etc.
3. Doctoral degrees in various fields such as medicine, law, mathematics, etc.
4. Professional certifications in areas such as accounting, human resources management, project management.
5. Vocational certificates in areas such as automotive technology, culinary arts,
6. Diplomas in specific trades such as plumbing or electrician work.

It is important to note that the Employment Standards Bureau may have specific requirements for certain jobs and may require a specific level of degree or certification for certain positions. It is always best to check with the bureau or the employer for their specific requirements before applying for a job.

18.What is the criteria for determining equivalency of foreign degrees and diplomas inPhilippines?

The criteria for determining equivalency of foreign degrees and diplomas in Philippines may vary depending on the specific educational institution. However, generally, the following factors are considered:

1. Accreditation: The degree or diploma should be obtained from a recognized and accredited institution in the country of origin.

2. Similarity in duration and program requirements: The course or program studied should have a similar duration, curriculum, and requirements to those offered in the Philippines.

3. Recognition by relevant authorities: The degree should be recognized by the education authorities or professional bodies in the country where it was attained.

4. Subject matter competence: The subjects studied should be relevant, comparable, and equivalent to those taught in similar programs in Philippines.

5. Grading system: The grading system used by the institution should be similar to that used in Philippines for ease of evaluation.

6. Language proficiency: Foreign degrees and diplomas must be accompanied by English translations if the original language is not English.

7. Authentication of documents: All academic documents must be authenticated by the Philippine embassy or consulate in the country where they were issued.

It is important to note that each educational institution may have its own set of criteria for determining equivalency of foreign degrees and diplomas. Therefore, it is recommended to directly contact the educational institution for specific requirements and procedures for evaluating foreign qualifications.

19.What is the timeline for recognition of foreign credentials, including post-secondary diplomas, certificates, apprenticeships, trade certificates, and degrees in Philippines?


The timeline for recognition of foreign credentials in the Philippines can vary depending on the specific institution and program being applied to. Generally, the process takes between 6-12 months and involves several steps:

1. Submission of required documents: Applicants will be required to submit their foreign credentials and other supporting documents such as transcripts, diplomas, credentials evaluation reports, language proficiency test results, etc.

2. Evaluation by relevant authorities: The submitted documents will be evaluated by the relevant authorities such as the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) or Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) for post-secondary diplomas and certificates, Professional Regulatory Commission (PRC) for professional licenses, or Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) for trade certificates.

3. Review and verification: The evaluating authority will review the submitted documents and verify the authenticity of the foreign credentials with the issuing institution.

4. Assessment of equivalency: Based on the evaluation and verification results, the authority will determine if the foreign credential is equivalent to a local qualification in terms of academic level, content, and scope.

5. Issuance of recognition/certification: If the foreign credential is deemed equivalent, a certification or statement of recognition will be issued by the evaluating authority.

The entire process can take up to 12 months or longer depending on any additional requirements or delays in document processing. It is important for applicants to plan ahead and start early to ensure timely recognition of their foreign credentials.

20.Can individuals with recognized foreign qualifications apply for financial aid or scholarships in Philippines?


Yes, individuals with recognized foreign qualifications can apply for financial aid or scholarships in the Philippines. Some universities and organizations offer scholarships specifically for international students. It is recommended to contact the university or organization directly to inquire about their scholarship opportunities and application process.