Students who have already studied abroad and wish to continue their studies in Germany, transfer to another university, or have individual modules recognized can have credits they have already earned Having Academic Work and Exams Recognized. This involves more than just comparing grades or ECTS credits. What matters most is which knowledge, skills, and learning outcomes have already been acquired.
Quick Answer: As a general rule, the decision regarding the recognition of foreign academic credits is made by the institution of higher education where the student intends to continue their studies. For degree programs that include a state examination, state examination offices may be responsible. For the examination, a transcript of records, course and grade summaries, credits or ECTS, module descriptions, and other proof of academic achievement are often required. A translation may be necessary if the documents are not available in an accepted language.
What does the recognition of foreign academic credits mean?
Students who have already studied at a university abroad are not necessarily required to repeat all their coursework at a German university.
Credits already successfully earned may be recognized upon request.
This may include, for example:
- individual modules,
- Exams,
- Seminars,
- Lab sessions,
- Internships,
- Projects,
- Theses or
- larger sections of the course.
If a decision to recognize academic credits is granted, the new institution generally treats the relevant academic achievement as if it had been earned within its own degree program.
Recognition or Credit—Which Is Correct?
In everyday language, the terms „recognition“ and „credit“ are often used interchangeably. In higher education, however, a technical distinction is made between them.
Recognition
From Recognition This term is used in particular when considering skills and academic achievements that have already been acquired at a college or university in the United States or abroad.
This applies, for example, to a module that was successfully completed at a foreign university.
Credit
From Credit In the classification system of the German Rectors' Conference, this term is used specifically when competencies were acquired outside a university.
This could include, for example, knowledge of:
- vocational training,
- a professional development program,
- Work experience or
- other non-college learning contexts
be.
In higher education laws and in common parlance, these terms may sometimes be used differently. Anyone submitting an application to a higher education institution should therefore use the term specified in the institution’s respective examination or recognition procedure.
Who decides whether to recognize academic credits earned abroad?
In general, institutions of higher education are responsible for recognizing academic achievements and examination results.
Within a college or university, the decision may be made, for example, by:
- Examination Committee,
- Examinations Office,
- Faculty,
- Department or
- a special recognition office
be made or prepared.
Specific responsibilities are determined by the regulations of the respective university and degree program.
Who makes the decisions regarding medicine, law, or other degree programs requiring state exams?
For degree programs that culminate in a state examination, different requirements may apply.
For example, the Conference of Ministers of Education lists the following:
- Human Medicine,
- Dentistry,
- Veterinary medicine,
- Pharmacy,
- Food Chemistry,
- Teacher education programs and
- Law.
Here, the respective state or regional examination boards can decide on the recognition of academic and examination achievements.
For this reason, particularly in the case of degree programs leading to a state examination, the appropriate authority should be identified before translating extensive course materials.
What are the requirements for recognition?
Academic work and exam results earned abroad may generally be recognized for the purpose of continuing a degree program and for admission to exams.
An important requirement is that the foreign institution of higher education—and, if applicable, the degree program—be duly recognized or accredited in accordance with the laws of the country of origin.
In addition, it must be possible to document the services actually provided in a verifiable manner.
Does a foreign module have to be exactly the same as the German module?
Not necessarily.
When recognizing academic credits earned at a university, the focus is not solely on a schematic comparison of module titles, the number of semesters, or ECTS credits.
A key consideration is whether, with regard to the skills acquired and learning outcomes, there is a significant difference exists.
For this reason, it may be particularly important for the credit evaluation process to submit not only the transcript of records but also, if applicable, information regarding:
- Learning Outcomes,
- Module content,
- Course format,
- Exam format,
- Workload and
- Level of the module
to provide.
What does „significant difference“ mean?
The recognition of academic achievements in the European Higher Education Area is shaped in particular by the principles of the Lisbon Convention.
In general, recognition is considered the norm, provided there is no significant difference between the qualifications or learning outcomes already acquired and those relevant to further studies.
Therefore, the assessment should not be based solely on whether two modules have exactly the same name or exactly the same number of credits.
What matters, rather, is whether the existing differences are so significant that they prevent the student from successfully continuing their studies or achieving their academic goals.
What is the Lisbon Convention?
The Lisbon Convention is the agreement on the recognition of qualifications in higher education in the European region.
It serves as a key foundation for academic recognition within the European Higher Education Area.
A key principle is that a qualification or academic achievement should generally be recognized unless significant differences can be demonstrated.
The specific process for recognition is also governed by higher education law, examination regulations, and the procedures of the respective institution of higher education.
What documents do I need for recognition?
The specific list of documents is determined by the respective university or the registrar's office.
For example, the following items are often needed:
- Transcript of Records,
- Subject and Grade Overview,
- Proof of credits or ECTS points,
- Module descriptions,
- Module Manual,
- Curriculum or study plan,
- Exam descriptions,
- Proof of internships,
- Certificates of Enrollment,
- Diploma Supplement and
- additional proof of achievement, if applicable.
Before translating extensive module handbooks or syllabi, it is essential to determine which parts are actually needed.
Why is the transcript of records so important?
The transcript of records, or the list of courses and grades, documents the academic work actually completed.
It typically contains:
- Module or course names,
- Exams,
- Grades,
- Credits or ECTS,
- Semester Information and
- More information about academic progress.
As a result, it often serves as the basis for the certification exam.
A translation of the transcript of records may be necessary if the receiving institution does not accept the language of the original document.
Why might module descriptions be required?
The name of a module alone often does not adequately reflect what was actually taught and tested.
For example, a course titled „Mathematics II“ may have different content, learning outcomes, and exam requirements at two different universities.
A module description may therefore include additional information about:
- Learning objectives or learning outcomes,
- technical content,
- Requirements,
- Teaching and learning methods,
- Types of exams,
- Workload and
- Credits.
This information helps the university conduct its academic evaluation.
Does the entire module manual need to be translated?
Not automatically.
A complete module handbook can be several hundred pages long. For the recognition of individual modules, only the descriptions of the modules to be recognized may be relevant.
Therefore, the following should be clarified before the translation:
- Which modules should be recognized?
- What specific module descriptions does the university need?
- Is English enough?
- Is a simple translation or a certified translation required?
This helps avoid unnecessary translations of lengthy documents.
What role does ECTS play in the recognition process?
ECTS stands for European Credit Transfer and Accumulation System.
The system is intended to make degree programs in the European Higher Education Area more transparent and, in particular, to facilitate the transfer and recognition of academic credits between institutions of higher education.
ECTS credits are based on defined learning outcomes and the associated workload.
In a standard full-time academic year, this corresponds to 60 ECTS the typical workload for an academic year.
Do identical ECTS credits automatically mean recognition?
No.
The same number of ECTS credits alone does not automatically mean that two modules are academically equivalent.
ECTS makes it easier to compare the workload, but the following factors may also be particularly relevant when deciding whether to grant credit:
- Learning Outcomes,
- Skills,
- technical content,
- Level,
- Program Context and
- Quality of the academic program.
Conversely, a difference in the number of credits does not automatically mean that recognition is out of the question.
What happens with foreign credits that aren't part of the ECTS system?
Not every higher education system uses ECTS.
Many countries use their own credit systems or document academic achievements in other ways.
The German university can then review the available documents to determine:
- what scope of work was associated with the module,
- what learning outcomes were achieved,
- what content was taught and
- what level the performance was at.
A translation should always accurately reflect the credits specified in the original and should not independently perform a binding conversion to ECTS.
Who converts foreign credits to ECTS?
The technical evaluation or recognition is the responsibility of the relevant university or testing agency.
A translation alone does not determine how many German or ECTS credits a foreign academic achievement is worth.
If the foreign document already includes an official ECTS credit value, this can be included in the translation accordingly.
In the case of other credit systems, one should not invent one's own academic equivalence.
How does the recognition process work when transferring to a university in Germany?
Anyone who wants to transfer from a foreign university to a German university must first distinguish between two questions:
- Am I generally eligible for admission to the program of my choice?
- Which coursework I have already completed will be recognized?
These are not necessarily the same procedures.
Depending on the institution, you may first need to submit an application or be admitted. The recognition of individual modules is then reviewed—either afterward or concurrently—by the appropriate office.
Can I transfer directly into a higher semester?
That may be possible under certain conditions.
Whether a student is placed in a higher academic semester depends, among other things, on the following:
- which academic achievements to date will be recognized,
- how many relevant benefits there are,
- what rules the degree program stipulates and
- whether a spot is available in the desired semester.
Recognition of individual modules therefore does not automatically guarantee a specific placement level.
Can I have credits from another degree program recognized?
In general, a recognition examination may still be relevant even if the previous and new degree programs do not have exactly the same name.
The key factor is which competencies and learning outcomes were acquired in the individual modules and how they align with the new degree program.
For example, foundational modules in mathematics, economics, languages, or the natural sciences may also be relevant in related degree programs.
The decision is made by the relevant university.
Can an entire semester spent studying abroad be recognized?
Yes, academic credits earned during a semester abroad can generally be recognized.
Especially when planning a period of study abroad, it’s a good idea to check with your home university before the semester abroad to see which courses will be accepted later.
In European discourse, a Learning Agreement used.
After the study abroad period, the Transcript of Records documents the actual academic achievements.
What is a learning agreement?
A Learning Agreement outlines, in the context of a planned study abroad program, which courses are to be taken abroad and how their subsequent recognition is to be handled.
This allows students to gain a clearer understanding, even before their stay abroad, of which credits will be recognized upon their return.
For a study period that has already been completed without a prior learning agreement, retroactive recognition is generally still possible; however, it may require a more detailed case-by-case review.
What role does the Diploma Supplement play?
The Diploma Supplement supplements the higher education degree with information about the level of qualification, the degree program, the structure of the program, and the higher education system.
In a certification exam, it can provide additional context.
However, a detailed transcript of records and, if necessary, a course description are often required for the evaluation of individual courses.
Do foreign academic transcripts need to be translated?
Not all of them automatically.
The university or the relevant admissions office determines which documents must be translated.
Some universities accept documents in English. Others may require a German translation.
Before translating, the following should therefore be clarified:
- What documents must be submitted?
- Which languages are accepted?
- Is a certified or notarized translation required?
- Does the original document also need to be submitted?
What types of academic documents can StartDE translate?
StartDE can arrange for professional translations—and, if required for the specific procedure, certified translations—of various academic documents.
These include, for example:
- Transcript of Records,
- Subject and Grade Summaries,
- Module descriptions,
- Module manuals,
- Curricula,
- Evidence of examination results,
- Diploma Supplements,
- Bachelor's and Master's diplomas,
- Internship certificates and
- Other academic documents.
You can submit your translation request directly through our website Interpreting & Translation Services at StartDE place.
What should be translated in module descriptions?
If a complete module description is required, the following information may be particularly relevant:
- Module Name,
- Module number,
- Learning Outcomes,
- Contents,
- Course format,
- Semester,
- Requirements,
- Workload,
- Credits,
- Exam format and
- Bibliography or additional information, as required by the university.
Since module descriptions can be quite lengthy, it is advisable to consult with the relevant university before beginning the translation.
Are foreign currency amounts converted during translation?
No. Translation and academic evaluation are two different processes.
The translation accurately conveys the grades, credits, and information provided in the original document.
The relevant university then decides how a foreign grade will be evaluated or accepted as part of the specific recognition process.
Academic documents in Arabic or other non-Latin scripts
For documents written in non-Latin scripts, care should be taken to ensure consistent spelling of names and university designations.
This applies, for example, to documents in:
- Arabic script,
- Persian script,
- Cyrillic script,
- Greek script,
- Chinese characters or
- other writing systems.
If the name is already written in Latin script in the passport or residence permit, this spelling should be specified when requesting a translation, if possible.
Express Translation for the Recognition of Academic Credits
When changing colleges or meeting application deadlines, a quick translation may be necessary.
Depending on the specific order, StartDE may consider expedited processing.
Depending on the document, language pair, length, and availability, a The certified translation will be completed the same day.
For extensive module handbooks or courses spanning multiple semesters, the actual time required depends largely on the length of the document.
To ensure a prompt review, please submit the following as soon as possible:
- complete scans of the required documents,
- Source language,
- Desired target language,
- Payment description: „Recognition of academic credits,“,
- any requirements set by the university, and
- Desired completion date.
Get the translation as a PDF
Once the translation is complete, a PDF version or a scan of the translation can be provided initially.
This can be useful in digital college admissions and credential recognition processes.
The relevant university or examination office will determine whether a digital copy is sufficient for the final application or whether a hard copy is also required.
Received a physical copy via DHL
Upon request, a hard copy can also be sent via DHL be shipped.
In particularly urgent cases, express delivery may be an option, depending on the appropriate DHL service.
The actual delivery time depends on the shipping service and the destination address.
Step by Step: Getting Foreign Academic Credits Recognized
- Set a goal: Changing universities, advancing to a higher semester, pursuing a master's degree, or getting individual modules recognized?
- Determine the responsible agency: University, examination board, or—for certain state examination programs—the state examination office.
- Review the recognition process: Please be sure to follow the instructions regarding forms, deadlines, and examination regulations.
- Request a list of documents: Compile transcripts, course descriptions, and other supporting documentation.
- Clarify language requirements: Check whether English is accepted or if German translations are required.
- Have only the necessary documents translated: Especially when dealing with extensive module manuals, determine the scope first.
- Submit the complete application: Submit original documents or scans, along with any required translations.
- Wait for the recognition decision: The decision on academic matters is made by the relevant university or examining body.
Checklist for the Recognition of Foreign Academic Credits
- Which college or agency makes the decision?
- Which modules would I like to have credited?
- Is a complete transcript of records available?
- Are credits or ECTS credits documented?
- Does the university require module descriptions?
- Are internship certificates required?
- Which languages does the university accept?
- Is a certified or authenticated translation required?
- Do the original language and the translation have to be submitted together?
- Is there an application deadline?
- Is a state examination office responsible for a degree program leading to a state examination?
Conclusion: More than just ECTS counts when it comes to recognition
Academic work and exams completed abroad can generally be recognized in Germany, thereby helping students avoid unnecessarily repeating coursework they have already successfully completed.
As a general rule, universities decide on recognition; for certain degree programs leading to a state examination, state examination offices make the decision.
It is particularly important that recognition not be based solely on the number of ECTS credits. Learning outcomes, competencies, subject-specific content, and the level of achievement already demonstrated can also be decisive factors.
Transcripts of records, credits, module descriptions, and other academic transcripts are often required for the review process. You should clarify with the appropriate office which documents need to be translated before placing the order.
Do you need a professional or certified translation of your transcript of records, module descriptions, or other academic documents? Please submit the complete documents to StartDE via our website, along with the source language, target language, and intended use. Professional and Certified Translations at StartDE.
Official Information on the Recognition of Academic Credits
Frequently Asked Questions About the Recognition of Foreign Academic Credits
Can academic credits earned abroad be recognized in Germany?
Yes. Academic work and exam results earned abroad can generally be recognized for the purpose of continuing one’s studies and gaining admission to exams. The specific decision is made by the relevant university or, in the case of certain state examination programs, by the state examination office. Conference of Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs
Who decides whether my courses will be accepted?
Generally, the university where the student intends to continue their studies. Internally, the examination board, the registrar’s office, or the academic department may be responsible. For certain degree programs leading to a state examination, state examination offices make the decisions. Conference of Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs
Do two modules have to be exactly the same?
Not necessarily. For academic recognition, the key factor is whether there is a significant difference in the competencies or learning outcomes acquired. hrk.de
Are modules automatically recognized if they have the same number of ECTS credits?
No. ECTS promotes transparency and transferability, but it is not the sole determining factor. Learning outcomes, course content, academic level, and other subject-specific aspects may also be taken into account. education.ec.europa.eu
What documents do I need for recognition?
Transcripts of records, course and grade summaries, credits, or ECTS credits—and, if applicable, additional documentation such as proof of internships—are often required. The university may also request module descriptions or other documents. Conference of Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs
Can coursework be recognized without ECTS credits?
Generally speaking, yes. Not every higher education system uses ECTS. The relevant institution will review the documentation provided and the learning outcomes achieved on a case-by-case basis.
Do module descriptions need to be translated?
Only if the relevant university requires it and does not accept the existing language version. Before translating a comprehensive module handbook, it is therefore essential to clarify the required scope.
Will the translator convert my foreign grades into German grades?
No. Translation and academic evaluation are two different processes. The university or the relevant examining authority decides on the evaluation or recognition.
