Higher education regulatory bodies in the UAE: who does what

The bodies you should know

1. 1

   Start with the Ministry of Higher Education

   The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research (MoHESR) leads the development of the higher education sector in the UAE. Think of it as the top of the structure that the other bodies sit under.

2. 2

   Check accreditation with the CAA

   The Commission for Academic Accreditation is the national body responsible for ensuring the quality of higher education institutions in the UAE, handling institutional licensing and programme accreditation. It was established in 1999 under the Ministry of Higher Education, and its mandate was expanded in 2012 to include public and private higher education institutions. Before you enrol, confirm your institution and programme are accredited by it.

   Documents:Institution licenceProgramme accreditation
3. 3

   Match your qualification to the job market via the NQC

   The National Qualifications Centre (NQC) is part of the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. Its role is to align education outcomes with labour market needs, so a qualification means something to employers here.

4. 4

   Get a Dubai degree recognised through KHDA

   The Knowledge and Human Development Authority oversees private educational institutions and certifies higher education degrees from licensed universities in Dubai. If you graduated from a licensed Dubai university and need your degree certified, this is where to go.

   Documents:Degree certificate
5. 5

   Studying in Sharjah? Know the local council

   The Sharjah Council for Higher Education and Scientific Research advises on regulating and advancing higher education and research in Sharjah. If your study or work sits in that emirate, it is worth knowing this body exists alongside the national ones.

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