The school or university abroad will probably want more information about your Dutch diploma or certificate. So you need to find out their requirements. For example, ask whether they want a translation of your qualifications or additional information. Start early and plan ahead to prevent unpleasant surprises later on.
Getting your diploma legalised
If you want to study outside the Netherlands you may need to get your diploma or certificate legalised. Or you may need to do this for another document about your education, for example a list of your grades. Legalisation makes documents suitable for use in another country. It shows that your document is genuine. Legalisation is not mandatory but some educational institutions may require it. If you are not sure, ask the school or university of your choice what their requirements are.
How do I get my diploma legalised?
How you have the document legalised depends on where you want to use the qualification.
Find out how to get your Dutch diploma or certificate legalised
How long is my legalisation valid?
There is no fixed period of validity for the stamp or sticker that legalises your diploma. This is determined by the employer or educational institution abroad asking for the legalised diploma. Ask the institution abroad that wishes to receive your legalised diploma about the period of validity.
Diploma description
To be admitted to the educational institution abroad you may need to prove what the level of your Dutch diploma is. A diploma description shows the content of your Dutch qualification and training. This helps educational institutions abroad to understand how this compares to qualifications in their national education system. A diploma description is not mandatory but some educational institutions abroad may ask for it. If you are not sure, ask the school or university of your choice what their requirements are.
Find out more about diploma descriptions
Lost or damaged educational documents
If your diploma, certificate or list of grades is lost or damaged, you may be able to download or apply for a duplicate.
Find out more about what to do if your diploma is lost or damaged
What you also need to arrange if you’re going abroad to study or do an internship
Check what else you need to arrange if you are going to:
Contact
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Also useful
- WilWeg: information about studying abroad (in Dutch)