Rules for Equivalence of Qualifications
The rules for determining the equivalence of qualifications are designed to ensure that foreign and domestic educational credentials are fairly assessed and aligned with the standards set by the Pakistani education system. These rules generally include the following key principles:
1. Assessment Based on Standards:
Equivalence is determined by comparing the foreign qualification against the equivalent Pakistani qualification based on factors such as curriculum content, course duration, and level of study.
2. Recognition of Accredited Institutions:
Qualifications are only considered for equivalence if they are awarded by institutions recognized and accredited by the relevant educational authority in the country where they were issued. The awarding institution must have the authority to offer qualifications and issue certificates/diplomas.
3. Duration of the Course:
The duration of the qualification is assessed to ensure it aligns with or exceeds the duration of the corresponding Pakistani qualification. The course must be sufficiently comprehensive and meet the necessary standards.
4. Course Content and Intensity:
The syllabus and content of the course are compared to those of similar Pakistani qualifications to evaluate the course’s depth and intensity. The number of study hours and the academic year length are also considered.
5. Language of Instruction:
Qualifications obtained in languages other than English or Urdu require translation by recognized authorities i.e. concerned embassy OR NUML. The translation must be accurate and certified to ensure the correct interpretation of the qualification.
6. Consultation with Subject Experts:
For specific fields or complex cases, consultation with subject matter experts or academic councils may be necessary to assess the equivalence of the qualification.
7. Consultation of International Guides:
In certain instances, the IBCC may refer to international guides, such as the British Council Guide to International Qualifications, for additional insights and guidance.
8. Additional Country-Specific Rules:
Some countries may have specific educational systems or qualifications that require additional evaluation methods. The IBCC may seek guidance from embassies or relevant ministries of education in such matters.
9. Verification of Documents:
All documents submitted for equivalence must be authentic and verifiable. The original certificates and transcripts must include certified copies and additional documentation may be asked from applicants if necessary.
10. Special Cases/Exemptions
Pakistani students who study abroad and obtain qualifications equivalent to the SSC (Secondary School Certificate) and HSSC (Higher Secondary School Certificate) are exempt from studying Urdu, Islamiyat, and Pakistan Studies. However, to avail the exemptions, both SSC and HSSC equivalent qualifications must be passed overseas, otherwise, if any of the qualifications is completed from Pakistan then the student will be required to pass the subjects of Urdu, Islamiyat and Pakistan Studies for obtaining equivalence.
Additionally, students with foreign or dual nationality can also take advantage of this exemption by providing valid proof of their nationality with their application. These requirements may vary depending on the level of education and the country where the qualification was earned.
Equivalence is determined by comparing the foreign qualification against the equivalent Pakistani qualification based on factors such as curriculum content, course duration, and level of study.
2. Recognition of Accredited Institutions:
Qualifications are only considered for equivalence if they are awarded by institutions recognized and accredited by the relevant educational authority in the country where they were issued. The awarding institution must have the authority to offer qualifications and issue certificates/diplomas.
3. Duration of the Course:
The duration of the qualification is assessed to ensure it aligns with or exceeds the duration of the corresponding Pakistani qualification. The course must be sufficiently comprehensive and meet the necessary standards.
4. Course Content and Intensity:
The syllabus and content of the course are compared to those of similar Pakistani qualifications to evaluate the course’s depth and intensity. The number of study hours and the academic year length are also considered.
5. Language of Instruction:
Qualifications obtained in languages other than English or Urdu require translation by recognized authorities i.e. concerned embassy OR NUML. The translation must be accurate and certified to ensure the correct interpretation of the qualification.
6. Consultation with Subject Experts:
For specific fields or complex cases, consultation with subject matter experts or academic councils may be necessary to assess the equivalence of the qualification.
7. Consultation of International Guides:
In certain instances, the IBCC may refer to international guides, such as the British Council Guide to International Qualifications, for additional insights and guidance.
8. Additional Country-Specific Rules:
Some countries may have specific educational systems or qualifications that require additional evaluation methods. The IBCC may seek guidance from embassies or relevant ministries of education in such matters.
9. Verification of Documents:
All documents submitted for equivalence must be authentic and verifiable. The original certificates and transcripts must include certified copies and additional documentation may be asked from applicants if necessary.
10. Special Cases/Exemptions
Pakistani students who study abroad and obtain qualifications equivalent to the SSC (Secondary School Certificate) and HSSC (Higher Secondary School Certificate) are exempt from studying Urdu, Islamiyat, and Pakistan Studies. However, to avail the exemptions, both SSC and HSSC equivalent qualifications must be passed overseas, otherwise, if any of the qualifications is completed from Pakistan then the student will be required to pass the subjects of Urdu, Islamiyat and Pakistan Studies for obtaining equivalence.
Additionally, students with foreign or dual nationality can also take advantage of this exemption by providing valid proof of their nationality with their application. These requirements may vary depending on the level of education and the country where the qualification was earned.