UAE sets new rules for online, distance learning, and verification process

DUBAI: Under the new regulations, degrees earned through distance learning, open education, online education, and correspondence courses may now receive conditional recognition, provided they meet the ministry’s specific criteria. A dedicated ministerial committee will assess these cases individually.

However, the ministry has clarified that vocational certificates, short-term training programs, and degrees awarded through specialized programs for select student groups will not be recognized.
To streamline the degree authentication process, the UAE has designated Dataflow and QuadraBay as official verification agencies. The recognition process consists of two key stages:
Degree Verification – Applicants must first authenticate their qualifications through Dataflow or QuadraBay, ensuring the legitimacy of their academic credentials.

Official Recognition – Once verified, applicants can apply for an official recognition report from the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research.

The entire recognition service is conducted online, with no fixed application deadlines. The standard processing time is 30 working days, while appeals can be submitted within three months of receiving a decision.

The ministry emphasized that each application will be reviewed based on the accreditation status of the awarding institution in its home country. Applicants must also adhere to the study methods approved by their respective universities.

Additionally, five key conditions have been set for recognizing bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees:

Students must follow the official program structure of their university.
The awarding institution must be licensed and accredited in its home country.
Transferred credits must come from recognized universities.
Online study hours must not exceed 18 credit hours per semester (or equivalent).
Medical and engineering degree holders must ensure that their master’s or doctoral degree aligns with their bachelor’s specialization.

The ministry has introduced a fee structure for degree recognition:

Dh100 for a bachelor’s degree
Dh150 for a postgraduate degree
Dh200 for a doctoral degree

Verification fees vary by country and awarding institution. Payments can be made electronically via e-Dirham or postpaid cards.