Validating academic degrees in Spain can be a crucial process for those who want to work or continue their studies in the country. The official recognition or equivalence of a foreign degree allows its validity to be officially recognized within Spanish territory, granting its holder the same rights and competencies as a degree obtained in Spain. However, this procedure can raise questions, as it depends on the type of degree, the institution of origin, and the purpose of the validation. In this blog, we will explain the steps and requirements needed to validate academic degrees in Spain.

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Differences between official recognition and equivalence

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Before diving into the process, it’s important to understand the difference between official recognition and equivalence, as these terms are often used interchangeably but do not mean the same thing:

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• Official recognition: refers to the official recognition of a foreign degree as equivalent to a Spanish degree. This process generally applies to secondary education diplomas, high school diplomas, and undergraduate university degrees.
• Equivalence: involves the recognition of specific studies or academic levels without the full recognition of a complete degree. This is usually applied to master’s or doctoral degrees but can also be relevant in cases where an identical Spanish degree does not exist.

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Requirements to validate academic degrees in Spain

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The process to validate academic degrees in Spain requires a set of documents and prerequisites that can vary depending on the educational level and the country of origin. Common requirements include:

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• Original and copy of the degree: the original academic degree must be properly legalized or apostilled, as appropriate, along with a certified copy.
• Academic certification: a document detailing the subjects studied, the hours of study, and the grades obtained.
• Certified translation: if the original documents are not in Spanish, an official translation by a sworn translator recognized in Spain is necessary.
• Formal application: completing and submitting the appropriate application form, available on the website of Spain's Ministry of Education and Vocational Training.

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How to start the validation process

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To start the process of validating academic degrees in Spain, it’s essential to follow these steps:

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1. Check the requirements: review the specific regulations for the validation of your degree on the official website of the Ministry of Universities. There, you will find information about which degrees can be validated and what requirements are needed.
2. Prepare the documents: gather all the required documents, ensure they are properly legalized, and, if necessary, translated into Spanish by a sworn translator.
3. Submit the application: the application can be submitted online or in person, depending on the case. The official platform is the electronic headquarters of the Ministry of Universities, although it can also be done through authorized public registries.

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Where to submit the application

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There are several options for submitting your validation application:+

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• Online: through the electronic headquarters of the Ministry of Universities, following the instructions and using a valid digital certificate.
• In-Person: at the official registry offices of the Ministry of Universities or the education departments of each autonomous community.
• At the consulate or embassy: if you are outside of Spain, you can visit the nearest Spanish embassy or consulate, where they will guide you on the steps to follow.

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Processing time and potential complications

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The time needed to process a validation application can vary depending on the type of degree and the number of requests at the ministry. It usually takes between 6 and 12 months to receive a definitive response. In some cases, additional documentation or complementary information may be requested, which can delay the process. If your application is denied, you will receive a notification detailing the reasons, and you will have the opportunity to appeal the decision or provide the required documentation.

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Associated costs

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Validating academic degrees in Spain involves certain costs, mainly for administrative fees, document legalization, and certified translations. The cost can vary depending on the nature of the degree and the fees of the translator or notary, so it is advisable to plan a budget in advance.

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Additional resources and contacts

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If you need help validating academic degrees in Spain, you can refer to several official sources such as the Ministry of Universities, regional education departments, or directly to Spanish universities. Additionally, Spanish consulates and embassies abroad can also provide information and assistance with the process.

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Validating academic degrees in Spain may seem like a complex procedure, but with the right information and careful planning, it is possible to complete this process successfully. Be sure to meet the requirements and submit your application correctly to avoid delays and complications.

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