Know Your Rights: Recognition of your
qualifications
Question
I am returning to Ireland from
Australia where I have been working and living for the last 10 years. I received
my degree from the University of Melbourne. I want to do a Masters in Ireland
on my return. Can I use my foreign degree to apply for a place in a third level
course?
Answer
You should first check with
the admissions office of your chosen 3rd level institution to see if
they will accept your degree for admission to the Masters.
NARIC Ireland also provides
free advice on the academic recognition of foreign qualifications in Ireland. The service compares a foreign qualification to an
Irish qualification of a similar type and level on the Irish National Framework
of Qualifications (NFQ). The NARIC Ireland foreign qualifications
database
has details of over 1100 qualifications from over 140 countries. You can
download a Comparability Statement which compares your qualifications to an award type and level in the context
of the Irish National Framework of Qualifications. If your qualification is not
currently listed you can request recognition
advice for your foreign award by emailing them directly. Visit www.naric.ie for more information.
Make sure you have original
copies of your degree (parchment) and exam transcripts before leaving
Australia, as you will have to submit these with your application to the college
and/or the NARIC.
Know Your Rights has been
compiled by South Connacht Citizens Information Service CLG, which provides a
free and confidential service to the public.
