Planning to study in Europe? Whether you’re applying to a bachelor’s or master’s program, your academic credentials will need to be reviewed and possibly evaluated. European universities rely on credential evaluation reports to understand how your previous education compares to their admission standards.
This blog post breaks down what European institutions look for in evaluation reports, how regional practices differ, and how undergraduate and graduate expectations vary. We’ve included helpful tables to guide your preparation.
Key Components of Academic Evaluation Reports
European admissions offices typically expect the following in a credential evaluation:
- Verified Credentials: Official diplomas, transcripts, and certificates—often directly from the issuing institution or through sealed/certified copies.
- Grading Scale Equivalency: Your grades and GPA must be translated into the grading context of the European institution.
- Degree Comparability: The credential must be equivalent to the academic level of the degree program (e.g., a European bachelor’s degree).
- Language and Translation: Documents not in English or the local language must be officially translated and certified.
- Institutional Recognition: The school must be recognized/accredited by the proper education authorities.
Regional Differences in Evaluation Practices
| Region | Verification & Recognition | Grading Scale Treatment | Degree Comparability | Language & Translation |
| Western Europe | Strong ENIC/NARIC presence; ZAB in Germany, UK ENIC | Grades are sometimes converted; focus on ECTS | Based on the Bologna Process (3-cycle model) | English accepted; some local translations needed |
| Northern Europe | Digital tools and central databases (e.g., Sweden) | Standardized GPA conversion tools used | Fast recognition, tools like UHR in Sweden | English is often accepted; some require translation |
| Southern Europe | Legalization common (e.g., apostilles, consular docs) | Conversion via local equivalency statements | Formal recognition is often mandatory | Translations into local languages are required |
| Central/Eastern Europe | Apostille or nostrification may be required | Uses 5–10 points or ECTS equivalents | FThe formalnostrification process is common | Translation rules vary by country |
Undergraduate vs. Graduate Evaluation Requirements
| Requirement | Undergraduate Admission | Graduate Admission |
| Minimum Credential | High school diploma or equivalent | Bachelor’s degree or equivalent |
| Common Document Types | Secondary transcripts, diplomas | University transcripts, degree certificate |
| Grade Evaluation Focus | Overall GPA and subject-specific marks | Cumulative GPA and subject relevance |
| Degree Comparability Check | Must grant access to the university in the home country | Must match Bologna first-cycle for master’s, second-cycle for PhD |
| Translation Requirement | Often required if not in English or/local language | Required, especially for thesis or technical content |
| Use of Evaluation Services | The university usually does an internal review | May accept WES, UK ENIC, or other services |
Tips for a Smooth Evaluation
- Start Early: Some recognition processes (e.g., nostrification or consular verification) can take months.
- Confirm Country Requirements: Italy may require a Dichiarazione di Valore; Poland may require nostrification.
- Translate Professionally: Utilize certified translators and provide both the original documents and their translations.
- Check Recognition Tools: Utilize resources such as ANABIN (Germany), UHR (Sweden), and ENIC-NARIC centers.
Final Thoughts
Credential evaluations help European universities make fair and accurate admission decisions. Understanding the differences by region—and whether you’re applying to undergraduate or graduate programs—will help you prepare your documents the right way.
Need help with an academic evaluation for Europe? ACEI has decades of experience assessing international credentials for institutions worldwide. Start your evaluation here.
