The equivalency certificate is an official document that confirms whether a diploma obtained abroad is equivalent to the educational standards in Turkey. When applying to or enrolling in a Turkish university, applicants are required to present this document. Without an equivalency certificate, enrolling in a university in Turkey is not possible. This article explains why the equivalency certificate is necessary, how to obtain it, and the essential steps in the application process.
What is an Equivalency Certificate and Why is it Necessary?
An equivalency certificate verifies that your education aligns with and is equivalent to Turkish education standards. Without this certificate, international students or Turkish nationals who have studied abroad cannot enroll in universities in Turkey. The certificate not only authenticates the diploma but also assesses the education’s level and content to ensure it meets Turkish curriculum standards.
Below are the detailed steps to follow when applying for an equivalency certificate.
Steps to Obtain an Equivalency Certificate
- Select the Appropriate Application Location If possible, apply for the equivalency certificate through the Turkish education attaché in your home country before coming to Turkey. This can save time and expedite the application process. For a list of Turkish education attachés in your country, visit the official website of the Turkish Ministry of Education. If your country does not offer this service, you should apply for an equivalency certificate as soon as you arrive in Turkey.
- Prepare Required Documents Before applying for the equivalency certificate, you need to gather the following documents:
- Diploma: An original copy of your diploma from the institution where you completed your studies.
- Transcript: Original and stamped transcripts covering all academic terms. These must be validated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and are accepted by education attachés in your country or Provincial Directorates of National Education in Turkey. Documents that are not authenticated by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are not accepted.
- Apply for the Equivalency Certificate in Turkey Once in Turkey, you can apply for the equivalency certificate online via the Turkish Ministry of Education’s website at https://edenklik.meb.gov.tr/. The website provides all necessary information and steps for the application process. It is recommended to select “Province: Istanbul, District: Metropolitan” during your application, as the process may be quicker in these areas.
- Collect Your Documents from the Provincial Directorate of National Education After your application is reviewed, the equivalency certificate will be issued. If your application is approved, you can visit the Provincial Directorate of National Education to collect your documents. Once you have the certificate, submit it to the university’s student affairs office along with other required documents for enrollment.
Important Notes on the Application Process
- Countries Without Education Attachés: If your country does not have a Turkish education attaché, or if you cannot obtain an equivalency certificate, apply for one immediately upon arrival in Turkey.
- Application Timeline: The equivalency certificate process may take a long time depending on application volume, so it’s important to start the application as early as possible.
- Temporary Equivalency Certificate: If you don’t have a valid residence permit during the application, you may be issued a temporary equivalency certificate. You can replace this with a permanent equivalency certificate once your residence permit is in order.
Conclusion
Obtaining an equivalency certificate is a crucial step for international graduates who wish to study at Turkish universities. This document confirms that your education meets Turkish standards, ensuring a smooth transition into your academic life in Turkey. Paying attention to the application procedures and required documents is key to ensuring a fast and seamless application process.
If you need professional and free assistance, feel free to reach out. For more detailed information on universities and programs in Turkey, visit StudyinTurkey.co to explore options best suited to your educational needs.
