Do I need a Statement of Comparability?
Living, studying, working – depending on what you plan to do in Germany, it can be necessary or useful to get a Statement of Comparability for your foreign university degree. However, it is not always the right document. Find out when a Statement of Comparability is needed and which other authorities you can contact.
What is your goal?
Select your goal and continue reading.
Working in Germany
I have successfully completed a degree program at a foreign university and would like to work in Germany
in a non-regulated profession
Would you like to work in a non-regulated profession? You can apply directly to job offers in Germany. Use your Statement of Comparability as proof of your qualification with public authorities, embassies, and for job applications.
A Statement of Comparability officially confirms the educational level your university degree corresponds to in Germany.
in a regulated profession
You have to prove that you have specific professional qualifications before you can work in a regulated profession. To do so, you have to obtain professional recognition from the state you will work in.
While you can apply for a Statement of Comparability, it does not replace the required professional recognition.
Studying
I would like to study in Germany.
Contact the university of your choice directly. They will let you know which admission requirements you have to fulfill and how you can apply.
For more information visit the Higher Education Compass.
Vocational training
I would like to do vocational training in Germany.
Your secondary school qualification has to be recognized.
Find recognition authorities for foreign secondary school qualifications in anabin.
Using an academic title
I would like to find out how I can use my academic title in Germany.
Each German state has its own higher education act regulating the use of foreign academic titles. For more information contact your state's ministry of science.
You can find additional information about the use of academic titles on our website.
Visa or residence permit
I would like to apply for a visa or residence permit.
Do you have to prove to a German embassy, consulate, or immigration authority that your university degree is comparable to a German qualification? You can use a Statement of Comparability to do so.
For more information visit the German governments official website Make it in Germany.
FAQ
You can find more frequently asked questions about the application process on our FAQ page.
A Statement of Comparability is generally not required to work in a specific profession in Germany.
- In most professions you can apply directly to job offers in Germany. A Statement of Comparability is not required, but it can be a useful addition to your job applications.
- In some cases, employers may request a Statement of Comparability for a job application.
- In regulated profession, you have to prove that you have specific professional qualifications and skills. This is legally required. You always need a professional recognition of your qualification – even if you already have a Statement of Comparability.
To apply for a work visa, you need conclusive proof of your professional qualification. A Statement of Comparability provides such proof regarding a foreign university degree.
Visit the website of the German diplomatic mission responsible for your country of residence for information on how to apply for a work visa: find German mission abroad
Each university defines its own admission requirements. A university may request a Statement of Comparability.
Contact the university of your choice to find out about its admission requirements.
If you would like to work in a non-regulated profession with your foreign university degree, you can apply directly to job offers in Germany. A Statement of Comparability can be a useful addition to your job applications.
In some cases, a Statement of Comparability is required for a job application:
- Employers are responsible for defining their job requirements. Some employers request a Statement of Comparability for a job application.
- In the public sector, a Statement of Comparability is often required for a job application.
If you would like to work in a regulated profession, you always need a professional recognition of your qualification. A Statement of Comparability is not sufficient.