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European Glossaryon Education Volume 1

Examinations, Qualifications and Titles

The Information Network on Education in Europe

R e a d y R e f e r e n c e

Ready Reference

European Glossary onEducation

Volume 1

Examinations, Qualificationsand Titles

EurydiceThe Information Networkon Education in Europe

This document is published by the EURYDICE European Unit with the financial supportof the European Commission (Education and Culture Directorate-General).

Original language: EnglishAvailable in DE-EN-ES-FR-IT

Second edition

D/1999/4008/10ISBN 2-87116-286-7

This document is also available on the Internet (http://www.eurydice.org).

The contents of this publication may be reproduced in part, except for commercial purposes,provided that the extract is preceded by a complete reference to ‘EURYDICE, the InformationNetwork on Education in Europe’, followed by the date of publication of the document.

Requests for permission to reproduce the entire document must be made to the European Unit.

EURYDICEEuropean UnitAvenue Louise 240B-1050 Brussels

Tel. (32-2) 600.53.53Fax (32-2) 600.53.63URL: http://www.eurydice.orgE-mail: [email protected]

http://www.eurydice.org


mailto:[email protected]

Table of contents

Foreword 3

Introduction 5

User’s guide 7

Part I: Glossary 11

Part II: Summary tables 183

European Union• Belgium 184

• French Community 184• German-speaking Community 185• Flemish Community 186

• Denmark 187• Germany 188• Greece 190• Spain 191• France 192• Ireland 194• Italy 195• Luxembourg 197• The Netherlands 198• Austria 200• Portugal 201• Finland 203• Sweden 204• United Kingdom 206

• England, Wales and Northern Ireland 206• Scotland 208

EFTA/EEA countries• Iceland 210• Liechtenstein 211• Norway 212

Pre-accession countries• Bulgaria 214• Czech Republic 215• Hungary 216• Poland 217• Romania 218• Slovakia 219

Acknowledgements 221

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Foreword

Until now, the EURYDICE network has had access to two terminology tools – the European EducationThesaurus and the glossary of national terms in the EURYBASE national dossiers. Each tool exists fora specific purpose and is used to meet different needs.

The Thesaurus provides users with the terms they need for indexing documents to be used in searchingfor information via descriptors. The Thesaurus is organised in categories, but it does not in any wayinclude specific terms used in the different countries. In the Thesaurus, the user will find the category‘certification’ but will not come across any of the national terms used to denote the various types ofqualifications (e.g. Baccalauréat, Abitur, etc.).

By contrast, each national dossier includes a glossary listing and explaining terms specific to the country,but these are in the language of origin, due to their untranslatable nature. The aim is both to avoiderroneous translation and to give users a better understanding of the concept in question. To date, thisglossary has generally been limited to terms that are deemed to be untranslatable. It therefore does notallow users to search for the meaning of all the specific terms used to denote the various aspects of theeducation system in each of the different countries.

In view of the growing demand for such information and the many linguistic problems encountered bypeople attempting to understand and compare education systems, it has become increasingly importantto have a glossary. This should contain all the relevant terms used in the various education systems,structured and categorised according to the original languages so as to simplify the search forinformation. This document represents an important step in this direction.

The scope of such an undertaking made it necessary for the glossary to be compiled in stages in the formof separate volumes on specific topics. This first volume of the European Glossary on Education lists themost important examinations, qualifications (e.g. certificates and diplomas) and titles currently in use inthe European Union Member States, the EFTA/EEA countries and in six Central and Eastern EuropeanCountries (CEECs). Each of the educational terms is presented in the original language, and the glossaryis being published in three language versions, English, French and German.

The glossaries of national terms drawn up by the EURYDICE National Units for the EURYBASEdatabase formed the basis for this project. The work carried out at higher education level by the NationalAcademic Recognition Information Centres (NARIC) has been taken into consideration. All relevantterms and their explanatory notes have been compiled and structured so as to provide the necessarycoherence and improve the comparability of the information. A guide to the use of the glossary is alsopresented in the introduction.

The European Unit of EURYDICE would like to thank all the national units in the EURYDICE networkfor their contribution and also the national representatives of the NARIC network who providedexpertise in relation to the higher education terms.

The presentation, drafting and editorial style are the responsibility of the EURYDICE European Unit.

In making this glossary available to all those who are trying to compare, understand or translate the termsused in the education systems in Europe, we hope that this tool will make a useful contribution to theirunderstanding of the specific national situations.

Luce PépinHead ofEURYDICE European UnitNovember 1999


Intr oduction

The glossary covers about 1000 specific terms used in the education systems for examinations,qualifications and titles. It is the first compilation of the terminology used in the area of certification in 24countries. Only the official or widely used and recognised names proper to each education system areincluded. The aim is to enable the reader to find the definitions of frequently used terms that they mightencounter when reading about or dealing with the education system of any given country. The onlyqualifications considered are those that are offered by or in partnership with educational institutions.Purely vocational qualifications obtained in out-of-school or adult education programmes are notincluded.

Qualifications and titles corresponding to names of professions, such as ‘teacher’ or ‘pharmacist’ havebeen avoided as far as possible. Only qualifications and academic titles in their own right have beenincluded. Thus the glossary is not a dictionary or a list of professional designations used in the field ofemployment.

In order to provide easy access for a wide range of readers, the terms relating to examinations,qualifications and titles are presented in two sections.

In the first section, the reader will find all the terms for all countries and all educational levels listed inalphabetical order. Only generic terms, abbreviations and common synonyms appear in the alphabeticallist. Apart from the explanatory note on the term, the information given for each entry includes a countryreference, ‘associated terms’, i.e. the most common grammatical forms of the basic term, and the levelof education concerned.

The second section comprises summary tables. These are presented by country. The terms of thecategory in question, i.e. examinations, qualifications and titles, are classified by level of education here.The countries are presented in the order used by the European Communities. Only generic terms areincluded in the national tables and the abbreviations are shown in brackets. The names of theexaminations, qualifications and titles are presented vertically and the levels of education horizontally.Certain details of specific characteristics are shown below the summary tables where this seemed likelyto contribute to understanding of the national situation. Only names still officially used are included.

The advantage of this dual structure is that it offers different routes of access to information. Readerswho know a term but do not know what it means can search in the alphabetical list to find the name ofthe country, the explanatory note and related terms. However, if, for example, they need to search for allthe terms used in a given country to refer to any particular level of education, they may consult thenational summary table and can then return to the alphabetical table for a fuller definition of each of theterms.

For each country, a diagram illustrating the structure and stages of the education system is presentedalong with the relevant national table, with the aim of helping readers to understand the system inquestion and enabling them to establish the points at which the examinations take place and thequalifications and titles are awarded.


• Main terms (in original language)

This section lists terms in the nominative,singular form, unless only the plural is used.

The expression appears in the official languageof the country. Greek and Bulgarian terms aretransliterated into the Roman alphabet with theterm in the Greek or Cyrillic alphabet inparentheses.

In principle, the official name of theexamination, the qualification or the titleappears. Popular references have only beenincluded if they are widely used and well knownand liable to appear in texts about the educationsystem (such as Selectividadin Spain).

Where two different terms are used for the sameexamination or qualification, there are twoentries, but only the main term has anexplanatory note which mentions the synonym.The explanatory note for the synonym includesonly a reference back to the main term.

Where the same term is used for the examination,the qualification (diploma) or the title, there isonly one entry but the explanatory note indicatesthat the term has two meanings.

Where a generic term is preceded or followed bythe name of the specialisation or field of study,only the general term is entered and not all thedifferent specialisations or fields of study. Inthese cases, the term is followed by a parenthesisindicating that the name of the specialisationgenerally precedes or follows the term inquestion. Common examples are the termLicence(+ specialisation) and not the full rangeof possible Licences, such as Licence in

chemistry, physics, journalism, etc.; ‘doctorate’(+ specialisation) or Ingénieur(+ specialisation)and not bio-ingénieur, ingénieur en agronomieetc.

Common abbreviations for examinations andqualifications are entered separately, with cross-references to the unabbreviated terms in theexplanatory notes. Abbreviations used in severalcountries appear only once, with an indication ofthe countries concerned and a cross-reference tothe full terms and the explanatory notes.

The names of examinations and qualificationsthat have recently been superseded but are stillfound in the literature are mentioned as are theold names of those that have been renamed, witha cross-reference to the new term.

• Grammatical variants

This heading covers the grammatical variants ofeach term (feminine, declined and plural forms,with the exception of those in English andFrench which involve only the addition of -s),indicating the main forms that the term may takein a text. These associated terms make itpossible to find entries and the definition of aterm even if the spelling is not identical with thatof the basic term. In languages which use a largenumber of different grammatical forms, such asFinnish or Hungarian, only the root of the wordis indicated and marked with an asterisk (*), sothat the reader will recognise the invariable partof the word. One or two examples of declinedforms will be given.

Dif ferent spellings, such as, for instance, theGerman Abschluß and Abschluss are alsoindicated here.

User’s guide

AbgangszeugnisCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Abgangszeugnisse, Abgangszeugnis*Level of education:Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who have not achieved the targets of lower and upper secondaryeducation, but have fulfilled their compulsory schooling requirement.

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• Levels of education

The level of education at which an examinationis held, a qualification awarded or a titleconferred is indicated, regardless of the type ofinstitution involved. For example, in France,even though the Diplôme d’accès aux étudesuniversitaires is issued by universities, itcorresponds to upper secondary education, likethe Baccalauréat.

The five main levels of education referred to inthis glossary are defined below. These areprimary, lower and upper secondary, post-secondary and higher. In view of the subjectmatter covered by the glossary, no reference ismade to nursery education. These five main levelsalso define the classification of the examinations,qualifications and titles in the summary tablespresented by country in Part II of the glossary.

• Primar y educationgenerally begins at 5 to 7years of age and lasts four to seven years. Incountries in which compulsory education isorganised in a single continuous structure,with no transition from primary to lowersecondary, the first six years are regarded asthe primary level. In these countries, theexaminations and/or certificates at the end ofcompulsory education are attributed to lowersecondary education.

• Lower secondary education generallyconsists of two to four years of educationfollowing the primary level. In countries inwhich compulsory education is organised in asingle continuous structure, this levelconstitutes the last stage or the last threeyears. In most cases, it consists of generaleducation but some countries offer vocationaleducation at this level. The branch of studyleading to the examination or qualification isindicated in the explanatory note.

• Upper secondary educationusually consistsof two to five years of education. Admissionnormally requires the completion of lowersecondary education. Upper secondaryeducation is frequently subdivided intogeneral, technical and vocational branches. Itmay prepare pupils for immediate entry to

employment or for entry to higher education.The branch of study leading to theexamination and/or the qualification isindicated in the explanatory note.

• Post-secondary education covers coursesof study or training that fall between thelevels of upper secondary education andhigher education. This category coversexaminations and qualifications fromprogrammes that in the national context arenot considered to be at higher educationlevel. These generally provide courses thatare more advanced and specialised thanthose at secondary level in a technical orvocational field and last from six months totwo or three years. It is not always necessaryto have an upper secondary school leavingcertificate to gain entry to these courses.

• Higher education includes programmes ofeducation at university and non-universitylevel and sub-degree, degree and post-graduate qualifications. An upper secondaryschool leaving certificate is a minimumrequirement for entry to this level ofeducation. Information on the differentlevels of qualification in higher education(university or not, doctorate or other post-graduate) are given in the explanatory notefor each examination, qualification or title.

• Explanatory notes/definitions of terms

The explanatory notes provide a definition of theexamination, qualification or title indicated inthe first section with a brief description of itsmain characteristics. Some specific termsneeded to understand the context fully have beenkept in the original language with a translationinto the language of the glossary – for example,names of institutions or stages of education.

All cross-references to other terms, in particularfrom an examination to the qualification towhich it leads, are marked by an arrow (�)followed by the name of the term in question.

DEFINITIONS

The aspects covered in the definitions of thevarious terms are as follows:


1. Examination

Generally, an examination can be defined as atest or a series of tests (oral, written, or practical)in which students have to demonstrate theircapacity, knowledge and skills in order to obtaina qualification or access to a certain level ofeducation. In the majority of cases, these areexternal examinations organised and/or set atcentral level, or by an authority – local orregional – above that of the institutionconcerned, and they have a specific name.

University entrance examinations are includedwhere they have an official name specific to theeducation system concerned. The same applies tointermediate examinations such as thepropedeutisch examenin higher education in theNetherlands. At primary and secondary level,standardised tests used for educational guidance,pupil selection or monitoring of the educationsystem are included if they have an official orwidely used and well-known name.

The standard explanatory note for anexamination includes the followinginformation:◆ the stage or year of study during which the

examination is held; if study programmesvary in duration, an average indication isgiven;

◆ details of the branch of study (vocational,technical or general) in secondary educationand the level (university, non-university orpost-graduate) in higher education;

◆ the administrative level or the bodyresponsible for organising/setting theexamination (national, regional, the school orany combination of levels);

◆ whether the examination is compulsory oroptional to obtain the qualification;

◆ the content and organisation of theexamination; its nature (written, oral orpractical); the number of subjects to bepresented by pupils and the common core ofsubjects all pupils must present;

◆ the name of the qualification awarded or ofthe level of education to which it gives access(with a cross-reference to the correspondingterm in the glossary).

2. Qualification and certificate

A certificate is the official proof of aqualification acquired by a pupil or student afterpassing an examination or it testifies tocompletion of a course of training.

The standard explanatory note for aqualification or certificate includes thefollowing information:◆ the stage or year of study at the end of which

the qualification is awarded; if studyprogrammes vary in duration, an averageindication may be given;

◆ if there is an examination or if thequalification is awarded at the end of thecourse of study without an examination;where the examination has a specificname, the note refers to the term using anarrow; if the examination is organised bythe school but does not have a specificname, its main characteristics aredescribed (content and subjects, written ororal examinations etc.);

◆ to what level of education and/or occupationthe qualification gives access;

◆ the details mentioned on the certificate,such as the specialised field, the subjectstaken and/or passed, the grades and marksobtained in the examination;

◆ where appropriate, the title it confers (withcross-reference to the corresponding term inthe glossary).

Where appropriate, mention should be made ofwhether the qualification forms part of an old ornew system, the date when the new system cameinto force, and the date up to which the oldsystem will remain in application.

3. Title

In most countries, titles are conferred only inhigher education.

Only academic titles are mentioned, such asthose obtained following a certain qualificationor degree. Names of professional titlesinvolving the common name of a profession(pharmacist, veterinary surgeon etc.) are not


included here, with the exception of the titles ofarchitect and engineer in those countries inwhich they are in normal practice used asacademic titles.

The standard explanatory note for a titleincludes the name of the qualification thatconfers the title in question and a cross-reference, with an arrow, to the relevant term.

Part I — Glossary


A levelCountry: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � General Certificate ofEducation Advanced Level.

AbgangszeugnisCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Abgangszeugnisse,Abgangszeugnis*Level of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who have notachieved the targets of lower and uppersecondary education, but have fulfilled theircompulsory schooling requirement.

AbiturCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Abitur*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification obtained by pupils who havepassed their � Abiturprüfung at the end ofupper secondary general education(Gymnasiale Oberstufe) generally after 13years of schooling. Certificated in the �Zeugnis der Allgemeinen Hochschulreife.

AbiturprüfungCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Abiturprüfungen,Abiturprüfung*Level of education: Upper secondary

Explanatory note:Final examination at the end of theGymnasiale Oberstufe (generally after year13) leading to the � AllgemeineHochschulreife. The examination includeswritten and oral tests in four subjects thatmust cover three different subject areas(language, literature and the arts; the socialsciences; and mathematics, science andtechnology). Depending on the Land, theSchulaufsichtsbehörde (school supervisoryauthority) will either set the topics for thewritten examination centrally or merely giveapproval if they are set by individual schools.

AbschlusskolloquiumCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants:Abschlußkolloquium, Abschlusskolloquien,Abschlusskolloquium*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Compulsory final examination taken bystudents at the end of a 7-year post-graduatecourse of study in Psychotherapy. This isinternally organised and comprises both awritten dissertation and an oral examination.Successful students are awarded the �Abschlusszertifikat.

AbschlussprüfungCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Abschlußprüfung,Abschlussprüfungen, Abschlussprüfung*Level of education: Higher

A a


Explanatory note:Compulsory final examination taken bystudents at the end of university courses ofvarying duration. Until 1997, it was also takenat the end of short courses of study but thiswas abolished by law as from 1 August 1997.The examination is internally organised andvaries according to the subject area.Successful students are awarded the �Abschlussprüfungszeugnis.

Abschlussprüfung der berufsbildendenmittleren Schule

Country: AustriaGrammatical variants: Abschlußprüfung,Abschlussprüfungen, Abschlussprüfung*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Examination taken at the end of the 3- or 4-yearsecondary technical and vocational school(berufsbildende mittlere Schule) leading to the �Abschlussprüfungszeugnis der berufsbildendenmittleren Schule. It includes both written and oralexaminations before an examining board. Thecontent is predominantly related to the specificoccupations.

Abschlussprüfung der OberschuleCountry: LiechtensteinGrammatical variants:Abschlussprüfungen, Abschlussprüfung*Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Optional examination of completion of lowersecondary general education (Oberschule),leading to the certificate � Abschlusszeugnisder Oberschule. The examination is organisedat the initiative and under the responsibility ofthe schools. It includes written and oral testsin German, mathematics and science.

Abschlussprüfung der RealschuleCountry: LiechtensteinGrammatical variants:Abschlussprüfungen, Abschlussprüfung*Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Compulsory examination of completion oflower secondary education (Realschule),leading to the certificate � Abschlusszeugnisder Realschule. The content of this

examination is defined by each school. Itincludes written and oral tests in German,mathematics and a foreign language.

AbschlussprüfungszeugnisCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Abschlußprüfungs-zeugnis, Abschlussprüfungszeugnisse,Abschlussprüfungszeugnis*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to students who pass the �Abschlussprüfung in various university coursesinvolving a minimum of 30 semester hours. Thearea of study, course subjects and marks areindicated. Depending on the regulations, thismay be a professional qualification. Graduatesreceive the title � Akademische(r) + indicationof the professional sector.

Abschlussprüfungszeugnis derberufsbildenden mittleren Schule

Country: AustriaGrammatical variants: Abschlußprüfungs-zeugnis, Abschlussprüfungszeugnisse,Abschlussprüfungszeugnis*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who successfullycomplete the � Abschlussprüfung derberufsbildenden mittleren Schule. The subjectspassed and the grades achieved are indicated.Holders are entitled to exercise certain regulatedtrades and occupations.

AbschlusszertifikatCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Abschlußzertifikat,Abschlusszertifikate, Abschlusszertifikat*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Final certificate awarded to students whopass the � Abschlusskolloquium. Thespecialisation is indicated. This attests tocompleted professional education as aPsychotherapist.

Abschlusszeugnis der berufsbildendenmittleren Schule

Country: AustriaGrammatical variants: Abschlußzeugnis,Abschlusszeugnisse, Abschlusszeugnis*


Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded after completion of 1 or 2years in a berufsbildende mittlere Schule(secondary technical and vocational school).There is no final examination.

Abschlusszeugnis der BerufsschuleCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Abschlußzeugnis,Abschlusszeugnisse, Abschlusszeugnis*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded at the end ofapprenticeship training under the dualesSystem to those who successfully completethe vocational school (Berufsschule). It isawarded on the basis of performance in thecourse of the year, without a finalexamination. The certificate includes a list ofmarks and indicates the final level of success.It is issued along with the � Lehrabschluss-prüfungszeugnis for the end of the workplacepart of the training and entitles the holder toenter employment. The apprentice can takethe � Lehrabschlussprüfung at the end of theapprenticeship, but those who have passed thelast year of the vocational school do not haveto take the theoretical part of the examination.

Abschlusszeugnis der BerufsschuleCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Abschlußzeugnis,Abschlusszeugnisse, Abschlusszeugnis*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by a Berufsschule at theend of the school part of vocational training inthe duales System on the basis of adequateacademic attainments, generally without afinal examination. The certificate is alwaysawarded together with a � Facharbeiterbrief,a � Kaufmannsgehilfenbrief or a � Gesel-lenbrief documenting the final examinationbefore the authority responsible for vocationaltraining (chamber). It gives access to theoccupation and includes the � Hauptschul-abschluss. A � Realschulabschluss can alsobe awarded to pupils with the appropriateattainment profile.

Abschlusszeugnis der GrundschuleCountry: Belgium (German-speaking Com-munity)Grammatical variants:Abschlusszeugnisse, Abschlusszeugnis*Level of education: PrimaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded at the end of primaryeducation to pupils who successfully meet therequirements of the final (sixth) year ofprimary school. It can also be awarded at theend of the first or second year of the 2-yearlower secondary school. Each schooldetermines the form and content of thecertificate, which gives pupils access to lowersecondary education but does not constitute aprerequisite for admission.

Abschlusszeugnis der HauptschuleCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Abschlußzeugnis,Abschlusszeugnisse, Abschlusszeugnis*Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded at the end of lowersecondary general education in a Hauptschule(4 years). It is awarded on the basis ofperformance in the course of the year, withouta final examination. The subjects passed andthe grades achieved are indicated. It entitles thepupil to proceed to upper secondary education.

Abschlusszeugnis der OberschuleCountry: LiechtensteinGrammatical variants:Abschlusszeugnisse, Abschlusszeugnis*Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of lower secondary educationin an Oberschule (4 years), awarded by schoolsto pupils who pass the � Abschlussprüfung derOberschule. It is recognised by the state. Thiscertificate gives access only to upper secondaryvocational education.

Abschlusszeugnis der Oberstufe desSekundarunterrichts

Country: Belgium (German-speaking Com-munity)Grammatical variants:Abschlusszeugnisse, Abschlusszeugnis*


Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:School leaving certificate awarded at the endof general, technical and artistic education inupper secondary (4 years) or upper secondaryvocational education (5 years) to pupils whosuccessfully meet the requirements of the last2 years. The certificate indicates the type ofeducation (general, technical or vocational)and mentions the pupil’s right to attend highereducation.

Abschlusszeugnis der Polytechnischen SchuleCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Abschlußzeugnis,Abschlusszeugnisse, Abschlusszeugnis*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who complete a1-year course of study at a PolytechnischeSchule at the level of upper secondary generaleducation. It is awarded on the basis ofperformance in the course of the year, withouta final examination. The subjects passed andthe grades achieved are indicated. It entitles thepupil to proceed to the more demandingcourses in the vocational school (Berufsschule)and to enter secondary technical and vocationalschools without an entrance examination.

Abschlusszeugnis der RealschuleCountry: LiechtensteinGrammatical variants: Abschlusszeugnisse,Abschlusszeugnis* Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of lower secondaryeducation in a Realschule, awarded by theschool attended, to pupils who pass the �Abschlussprüfung der Realschule. It isrecognised by the state. This certificate givesaccess to upper secondary vocational orgeneral education (in a Fachschule,Berufsschule or Gymnasium).

Abschlusszeugnis der Unterstufe desSekundarunterrichts

Country: Belgium (German-speaking Com-munity)Grammatical variants: Abschlusszeugnisse,Abschlusszeugnis*

Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note: Certificate awarded at the end of the thirdyear of lower secondary general, technical orartistic education or the fourth year of lowersecondary vocational education to pupils whosuccessfully meet the requirements of the last2 years. The certificate indicates the type ofeducation (general, technical or vocational)and also mentions the basic optional subjects.It gives pupils access to upper secondaryeducation, but does not constitute aprerequisite for admission.

AbsolutoriumCountry: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants:Absolutoria, Absolutori*Level of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Examination of completion of specialisedpost-secondary technical education (lasting 2to 3 years) or following 6 to 8 years at aconservatoire. Successful students receive the� Vysvìdèení o absolutoriu certificate andthe � Diplom degree. The design and contentof the examination are established by thehead of the institution. It is assessed by anexamining committee appointed by theEducation Minister. The examinationincludes a theory examination in the subjectsof the specialisation, an examination in aforeign language, a final written assignmentand its defence, a performance at theconservatoire and, where appropriate, anexamination of teacher training in the arts.

AbsolutóriumCountry: SlovakiaGrammatical variants:Absólutória, Absolutórium*Level of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Synonym of � Absolventská skúška.

Absolventská skúška Country: SlovakiaGrammatical variants:Absolventské skúšky*, Absolventská skúška*Level of education: Post-secondary


Explanatory note:Examination of completion of higher vocationaleducation lasting at least 1 year. It is alsoorganised for students of the konzervatóriumwho have continued in specialised studies afterhaving obtained the � Vysvedèenie omaturitnej skúške. Successful pupils receive the� Absolventský diplom certificate. The contentof requirements for this examination isapproved by the headteacher and variesdepending on the type of institution. In general,it includes written and oral examinations, aswell as a practical part covering the subjects ofthe specialisation. Synonym: Absolutórium.

Absolventský diplomCountry: SlovakiaGrammatical variants:Absolventské diplomy, Absolventský diplom*Level of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of higher vocationaleducation at a konzervatórium, awarded tostudents who have passed the � Absolventskáskúška examination. It mentions the mainsubjects of the specialisation, as well as theexamination marks, and differs depending onthe type of institution.

AccessCountry: United Kingdom (Scotland)Grammatical variants: Access 1, 2 and 3Level of education: Lower/upper secondary/post-secondaryExplanatory note:A 1-year qualification that will be offeredunder the Higher Still reforms, with the firstcourses beginning in 1999/2000. Access covers3 sub-levels, with Access 3 being broadlyequivalent in level to the � Scottish Certificateof Education – Standard Grade General level.Access qualifications are divided into unitswhich are internally assessed on the basis ofcoursework, there is no external assessment.Units can be taken separately. The basiccontent of courses, including options, isspecified centrally. These qualifications are atthe basic level, and can be used for example forpeople with learning difficulties or thosereturning to study after obtaining few or noqualifications at school. Students can progress

to Standard Grade Foundation or Intermediate1 courses. The Scottish QualificationsAuthority (SQA) awards the qualification andmoderates internal assessments.

Advanced HigherCountry: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Upper secondary/post-secondaryExplanatory note:A 1-year qualification, which will be offeredunder the Higher Still reforms, and willreplace the � Certificate of Sixth YearStudies and � General Scottish VocationalQualification. The first Advanced Higherswill be available in 2000/2001. Thequalification is divided into units which areinternally assessed on the basis ofcoursework, but there is also an externalassessment which determines the grade on ascale A to C. Units can be taken separately.The basic content of Advanced Highers inindividual subjects, including options, isspecified centrally. Advanced Highers may betaken into account for entry to highereducation, but are not entry requirements, andcan also lead to careers. The ScottishQualifications Authority (SQA) awards thequalification, carries out external assessmentsand moderates internal assessments.

AESICountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Agrégé(e) de l’enseignementsecondaire inférieur and � Agrégation del’enseignement secondaire inférieur.

AESSCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Agrégé(e) de l’enseignementsecondaire supérieur and � Agrégation del’enseignement secondaire supérieur.

Afgangsbevis fra FolkeskolenCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Afgangsbeviset,Afgangsbeviser, Afgangsbeviserne


Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to all pupils who havecompleted compulsory education. Lists marksfor the year’s work, and marks obtained in theoptional final examinations after the ninth ortenth year, if they were sat. It gives pupils accessto vocational education and training. If therequired final examinations � Folkeskolensafgangsprøve or � Folkeskolens udvidedeafgangsprøve have been taken, it gives access tothe upper secondary general education courses ofthe Gymnasium, HF, HHX and HTX.

Afsluitend examenCountry: The NetherlandsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Final examination to conclude a first degreecourse in university education(wetenschappelijk onderwijs – wo) or non-university higher education (higher professionaleducation – hoger beroepsonderwijs – hbo).Students who pass the final examination areawarded the certificate � Getuigschrift van hetafsluitend examen.

Afsluttende fagprøveCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Afsluttende fagprøver,Afsluttende fagprøverneLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Compulsory final examination, organised bythe Ministry of Education, held during thefinal six months of vocational training in thecommercial and clerical fields and theequivalent of the � Svendeprøve taken withinthe technical trades. It is composed of awritten project report and an oral examinationin the presence of an external examiner. Itgives access to employment and confers thetitle of the occupation concerned.

Agent technique brevetéCountry: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Title conferred on pupils who have obtainedthe � Brevet de technicien. Synonym:Technicien breveté.

AgrégationCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to students who pass thecompetition to recruit upper secondary schoolteachers. The competition is aimed at holdersof certificates awarded in an EU MemberState or EEA country at the end of at least 4years of education at post-secondary level.This certificate can be obtained at either auniversity or a higher education institute(écoles normales supérieures). Successfulcompletion of this competition gives accessto a year of professional training in an institutuniversitaire de formation des maîtres(IUFM) (University institute for the trainingof teachers) before beginning to teach. Thetitle awarded is � Professeur agrégé.

Agrégation de l’enseignement secondaireinférieur

Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded by Hautes Écoles(teacher training colleges) to students whohave passed the examinations set by theindividual institution and required under theprogramme in each subject and who havesubmitted their final dissertation (mémoire) atthe end of 3 years of non-university,pedagogical higher education. The certificatementions the section, options, subjects taken,subject of the final dissertation and final markawarded. It confers the title � Agrégé(e) del’enseignement secondaire inférieur. Thecertificate gives access to teaching in the first3 years of secondary general, technical andartistic education and 7 years of secondaryvocational education. Abbreviation: AESI.

Agrégation de l’enseignement secondairesupérieur

Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded by university institutionsor Hautes Écoles to students who have alreadyreceived the � Licence en (+ specialisation),who have passed the examinations set by the


individual institution and required under theprogramme in each subject, who havecompleted the teaching practice and presentedtwo public lessons at the end of 1 year ofuniversity education. The certificate mentionsthe subjects taken, the topic of the two publiclessons and the final mark awarded. It confersthe title � Agrégé(e) de l’enseignementsecondaire supérieur and gives access toemployment as a teacher in upper secondaryschool and short-cycle non-university highereducation. Abbreviation: AESS.

Agrégation de l’enseignement supérieurCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:University teaching qualification awarded byuniversities to students who have presentedand publicly defended their research report(original dissertation), three papers (on relatedquestions) chosen freely, and who have givenan oral lesson on a topic determined by theexamination board (university authorities) atleast 2 years after receiving the degree �Doctorat en. The certificate mentions the fieldof study and the subjects of the dissertationand of each paper. It gives access to teachingat university level, but is not a compulsoryqualification. It confers the title � Agrégé(e)de l’enseignement supérieur.

Agrégé(e) de l’enseignement secondaireinférieur

Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have receivedthe � Agrégation de l’enseignementsecondaire inférieur. Abbreviation: AESI.Synonym: Régent(e).

Agrégé(e) de l’enseignement secondairesupérieur

Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have receivedthe � Agrégation de l’enseignementsecondaire supérieur. Abbreviation: AESS.

Agrégé(e) de l’enseignement supérieurCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have received the� Agrégation de l’enseignement supérieur.

AgronomexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Professional degree in the field of agriculture,awarded after a 4½-year programme of full-time study, which includes a degree project.The degree certificate mentions the subjectspassed. The degree gives access toemployment and general eligibility fordoctoral studies.

Akademischer (+ professional sector)Country: AustriaGrammatical variants:Akademische, Akademisch*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Academic title conferred on students who have been awarded the �

Abschlussprüfungszeugnis at a university, e.g. Akademische(r) Mediator(in)(conciliator), Akademische(r) Berufsorien-tierungspädagoge(in) (career guidancecounsellor), Akademische(r) Tourismus-manager(in) (tourism manager) etc.

Allgemeine HochschulreifeCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants:Allgemein* Hochschulreife*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification for admission to all highereducation institutions and subject areas,usually obtained in the Gymnasiale Oberstufeafter 13 years of schooling by passing the �Abiturprüfung.

Általános iskolai bizonyítványCountry: HungaryGrammatical variants:Általános iskolai bizonyítványok, Általánosiskolai bizonyítvány*


Level of education: Primary/lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of compulsoryeducation (8 years), awarded on the basis ofclass marks, without a final examination. Itmentions the subjects and the final yearmarks. It is required to gain access to uppersecondary education or to employment.

Ammatillinen opistoasteen tutkintoCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: tutkinno-, tutkinto-,tutkinnotLevel of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:A qualification awarded at the end of 2 to 3years of vocational studies in post-secondaryopisto institutions. There is no finalexamination. The qualification mentions thespecialisation, the subjects passed, and themarks obtained during the course of study.This qualification gives access to higher levelstudies. From 1999, this qualification will bereplaced by the � Ammattikorkeakoulu-tutkinto following the transfer of these coursesfrom post-secondary institutions to non-university higher education polytechnics(Ammattikorkeakoulu). Swedish term:Yrkesexamen på institutnivå.

Ammatillinen perustutkintoCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: tutkinno-, tutkinto-,tutkinnotLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Vocational qualification equivalent to thecertificate of upper secondary vocationaleducation � Todistus toisen asteenammatillista opinnoista. This qualification canalso be obtained through the � Näyttötutkintoexamination. Swedish term: Grundexamen.

AmmattikorkeakoulututkintoCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: tutkinno-, tutkinto-,tutkinnotLevel of education: Higher Explanatory note:Qualification of the non-universitypolytechnic institutions (Ammattikorkeakoulu

– AMK), non-university institutions of highereducation, which from 1999 are replacing thequalifications obtained under the old systemof post-secondary (opisto) and highervocational education and training �Ammatillinen opistoasteen tutkinto. The newqualification corresponds closely to thebachelor level degree. AMKs offer vocationalhigher education in various sectors and theprogrammes include basic and vocationalstudies, optional studies and practical trainingover 3 to 4 years of full-time study. There isno final examination. The certificatementions the specialisation, the subjectspassed and the marks obtained. Swedishterm: Yrkeshögskoleexamen.

Apolytirio – Dimotikou scholeiou(ÁðïëõôÞñéï Äçìïôéêïý Ó÷ïëåßïõ)

Country: GreeceGrammatical variants:Áðïëõôçñßïõ, ÁðïëõôÞñéá, áðïëõôçñé-*Level of education: PrimaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate awarded at the end ofprimary education (Dimotiko Scholeio) (6years), to pupils who pass all of the subjectsstudied. There is no final examination. Thecertificate mentions the mark and the grade ofthe pupil’s overall assessment, and gives accessto lower secondary education. The school-leaving certificate is called Titlos Spoudon(Tßôëïò Óðïõäþí) (Certificate of Study).

Apolytirio Eniaiou Polykladikou Lykeiou(ÁðïëõôÞñéï Åíéáßïõ ÐïëõêëáäéêïýËõêåßïõ)

Country: GreeceGrammatical variants:Áðïëõôçñßïõ, ÁðïëõôÞñéá, áðïëõôçñé-*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of comprehensive uppersecondary education (Eniaio PolykladikoLykeio – EPL) lasting 3 years, awarded tocandidates on the basis of internal assessmentthroughout their studies in all of the subjectsfollowed. It mentions the section, the subjectsand the marks obtained, as well as the averagemark and the grade. Depending on the option


chosen during the final year, the certificatemay be one of two types:• Apolytirio Kladou Desmis for candidates

who have followed the general educationsection; it is then equivalent to the diploma� Apolytirio Genikou Lykeiou;

• Apolytirio Kladou ProepaggelmatikisEkpaidevsis for candidates who havefollowed the pre-vocational educationsection; it is then equivalent to the diploma� Ptychio Technikou-EpaggelmatikouLykeiou.

This diploma entitles holders to sit thenational examination � Genikes Exetaseiswhich gives access to higher education as wellas to vocational specialised studies.Abbreviation: Apolytirio EPL.

Apolytirio EPL (ÁðïëõôÞñéï Å. Ð. Ë.)Country: GreeceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Apolytirio EniaiouPolykladikou Lykeiou.

Apolytirio Genikou Lykeiou(ÁðïëõôÞñéï ÃåíéêïýËõêåßïõ)

Country: GreeceGrammatical variants:Áðïëõôçñßïõ, ÁðïëõôÞñéá, áðïëõôçñé-*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of upper secondarygeneral education (Geniko Lykeio) lasting 3years, awarded to candidates on the basis ofinternal assessment throughout their studies inall of the subjects followed. It mentions thecourse subjects and the marks obtained, aswell as the average mark and the grade. Thisdiploma allows participation in nationalexaminations � Genikes Exetaseis whichgives access to higher education, as well as tovocational specialised studies and to non-specialised jobs.

Apolytirio Gymnasiou(ÁðïëõôÞñéï Ãõìíáóßïõ)

Country: GreeceGrammatical variants:Áðïëõôçñßïõ, ÁðïëõôÞñéá, áðïëõôçñé-*Level of education: Lower secondary

Explanatory note:Leaving certificate of lower secondaryeducation (Gymnasio) lasting 3 years, awardedto candidates on the basis of internalassessment throughout their studies in all of thesubjects followed. It mentions the coursesubjects and the marks obtained, as well as theaverage mark and the grade. This certificategives access to upper secondary education.

Apolytirio Kladou Desmis(ÁðïëõôÞñéï ÊëÜäïõ ÄÝóìçò)

Country: GreeceGrammatical variants:Áðïëõôçñßïõ, ÁðïëõôÞñéá, áðïëõôçñé-*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:One form of the certificate � ApolytirioEniaiou Polykladikou Lykeiou.

Apolytirio Kladou ProepaggelmatikisEkpaidevsis (ÁðïëõôÞñéï ÊëÜäïõÐñïåðáããåëìáôéêÞò Åêðáßäåõóçò)

Country: GreeceGrammatical variants:Áðïëõôçñßïõ, ÁðïëõôÞñéá, áðïëõôçñé-*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:One form of the certificate � ApolytirioEniaiou Polykladikou Lykeiou.

Apolytirio Technikou – EpaggelmatikouLykeiou (ÁðïëõôÞñéï Ôå÷íéêïý –Åðáããåëìáôéêïý Ëõêåßïõ)

Country: GreeceGrammatical variants:Áðïëõôçñßïõ, ÁðïëõôÞñéá, áðïëõôçñé-*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of upper secondaryvocational education (Techniko-Epaggelmatiko Lykeio – TEL) lasting 3 years,awarded to candidates who, during the finalyear, have chosen to follow one of thesections identical to those of upper secondarygeneral education (Geniko Lykeio). It isawarded on the basis of internal assessmentthroughout their studies in all of the subjectsfollowed. It mentions the course subjects andthe marks obtained, as well as the averagemark and the grade. This certificate enables


pupils to sit the national examination �Genikes Exetaseis which gives access tohigher education, as well as to vocationalspecialised studies and to employment.Abbreviation: Apolytirio TEL.

Apolytirio TEL (ÁðïëõôÞñéï Ô. Å. Ë.)Country: GreeceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Apolytirio Technikou –Epaggelmatikou Lykeiou.

ArchitectCountry: Belgium (Flemish Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification and title awarded to studentswho successfully complete a second cycle ofnon-university higher education inarchitecture (3 years) or interior design (2years) in a Hogeschool following a degree �Kandidaat in de. The examinations (writtenand/or oral as the teacher decides) areorganised by the individual institution andcover all the subjects studied. The degreecertificate indicates the name of the institutionand the title of the diploma, while asupplement gives details of the subjectsstudied and the marks awarded. It gives entryto the profession. In interior design, thediploma and title are interieurarchitect.

ArchitecteCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma and title awarded by the InstitutsSupérieurs d’Architecture to students whohave passed the examinations required underthe programme in each subject and presentedthe final dissertation (mémoire) at the end of 3years of second-cycle university education(after the certificate � Candidature en). Thediploma mentions the subjects taken, thesubject of the mémoire and the final markawarded. It gives access to employmentfollowing a placement lasting 2 years andenrolment in the Architects Register.

Architecte diplômé par le GouvernementCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma and title conferred on students oncompleting non-university final examinationsin architecture (5 years of study until 1988and 6 years subsequently). The oral andwritten final examinations set by eachinstitution cover all the subjects studied. Thequalification gives access either to theprofession or to a year of further specialisededucation.

ArkitektexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Professional degree in the field ofarchitecture, awarded after a 4½-yearprogramme of full-time study, which normallyincludes a degree project. The degreecertificate normally mentions the subjectspassed and the marks and grades obtained.The degree gives access to employment andgeneral eligibility for doctoral studies.

ArquitectoCountry: SpainGrammatical variants:Arquitecta, ArquitectosLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree and title awarded to students whohave passed the examinations required underthe programme and taken a final examination(written report on a practical project) at theend of long-cycle university studies inarchitecture (5 years) in an Escuela TécnicaSuperior. The written and/or oralexaminations are organised by each teacherand cover each subject taken. The certificatementions the specialisation. It gives access tothe profession and/or to a �Doctorado en. Thisdegree corresponds to the � Licenciatura en.


Arquitecto TécnicoCountry: SpainGrammatical variants: Arquitecta Técnica,Arquitectos TécnicosLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree and title awarded to students whohave passed the examinations required underthe programme and taken a final examination(written report on a practical project) at theend of first-cycle university studies inarchitecture (3 years) in an EscuelaUniversitaria. The written and/or oralexaminations are organised by each teacherand cover each subject taken. The certificatementions the specialisation. It gives access tothe profession and/or to second-cycleuniversity studies. This degree corresponds tothe � Diplomatura en.

ÅrskursbevisCountry: NorwayGrammatical variants: Årskursbeviset,ÅrskursbeviseneLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded without a finalexamination to pupils at the end of completedcourses lasting 1 year in an upper secondaryschool and to external candidates.

ArtD.Country: SlovakiaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Philosophiae doctor in thefield of arts.

ArtsCountry: Belgium (Flemish Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification and title awarded to studentswho successfully complete a 4-year secondcycle of university study in medicinefollowing a 3-year � Kandidaat in de degree.The examinations (written and/or oral as theteacher decides) are organised by theindividual institution and cover all thesubjects studied. The degree certificateindicates the name of the institution and the

title of the diploma, while a supplement givesdetails of the subjects studied and the marksawarded. It gives entry to the medicalprofession and also to the third cycle ofuniversity studies. Beside those medicalstudies, a student can take up a 5-year courseof study to become a dentist (tandarts) or a 6-year course of study to become a veterinarysurgeon (dierenarts).

Atestat profesionalCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Atestatul profesionalLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of vocational proficiency awardedto students who have passed the practical test� Probã practicã, at the end of uppersecondary education (in specialisedsecondary schools). It mentions thespecialisation. It gives access to employment.

Attest van regelmatige lesbijwoningCountry: Belgium (Flemish Community)Grammatical variants: Attesten vanregelmatige lesbijwoningLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Attendance certificate issued to pupils whohave taken a 1-year higher educationpreparatory course in art subjects orengineering. The aim of these courses is toprepare intending students for the entranceexaminations for study in these fields. Thecertificate is not compulsory for admission tohigher education.

AusbildungsabschlussprüfungCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Ausbildungs-abschlußprüfung, Ausbildungsabschluss-prüfungen, Ausbildungsabschlussprüfung*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Final examination at the end of vocationaltraining in the duales System to ascertainwhether the trainee possesses the requiredskills and practical and theoretical knowledge.Depending on the occupation, successfulcompletion of this examination leads to theaward of a � Facharbeiterbrief, �


Kaufmannsgehilfenbrief or � Gesellenbrief.The authority responsible for vocationaltraining (chamber) sets the examinations,which include a practical and a written section.

Avgångsbetyg från grundskolan Country: FinlandGrammatical variants: -betyget, -betygenLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Swedish term for �Peruskoulun päättötodistus.

AvgangsprøveCountry: NorwayGrammatical variants: Avgangsprøven,Avgangsprøver, Avgangsprøvene

Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:School-leaving examination at the end ofcompulsory education lasting 10 years. Itinvolves a written examination, inNorwegian (both forms)/Sami, mathematicsor English. The examination is organised bythe National Examination Board. Pupils areassessed by two external examiners. It mayalso involve an oral examination, organisedlocally. Pupils are assessed by teachers fromanother school. From the year 2000, pupilshave to accomplish a final project in the lastterm of year 10. The teacher’s writtenassessment of the project (without a mark)will be included in the � Vitnemål.


B.Country: The NetherlandsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Bachelor. Theabbreviation may be followed by lettersindicating the field of study.

B.Ed.Country: United Kingdom/IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Bachelor of Education. See� Bachelor’s degree.

B.Eng.Country: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Bachelor of Engineering, �Bachelor’s degree awarded by the NationalCouncil for Academic Awards to students whosuccessfully complete a degree programme of4 years ab initio or 2 years following a �National Diploma. Classification isdetermined by the student’s performance.

B.Sc.Country: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Bachelor of Science. See �Bachelor’s degree awarded in sciencesubjects.

BACountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: BAsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students in the first cycle ofuniversity in the field of arts and socialsciences who obtain the degree � BA-gráda.

BACountry: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Bachelor of Arts. See �Bachelor’s degree awarded in arts subjects.

BACountry: United KingdomLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Bachelor of Arts. See �Bachelor’s degree.

BaccalaureatCountry: LiechtensteinGrammatical variants: BaccalaureateLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:First degree awarded by the InternationalenAkademie für Philosophie (IAP) in variousareas of study to students who pass the firstdegree examination after completion of the 2-year basic course of study (Grundstudium).The first degree examination is obligatoryand consists of written examinations inphilosophy and two chosen subjects. The

B b


examination requirements and content are setinternally by the institution.

BaccalauréatCountry: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who have passedthe national final examination of the samename organised at the end of general andtechnological (3 years) or vocational (4 years)upper secondary education. The examination isorganised by the Ministry of Education andconsists of compulsory written and oralexaminations as well as optional examinationscovering the subjects taken in the final year(except in French, which is taken at the end ofthe second last year). The compulsoryexaminations for the general section are inmathematics, sciences, a foreign language,philosophy, history and geography, civics andphysical education and sports, while theoptional examinations vary according to thetype of course. There are general, technologicaland vocational baccalauréats. The certificatementions the branch and final results. It givesaccess to higher education and/or a trade oroccupation for pupils in vocational education.It confers the title � Bachelier(ère).

BaccalaureusCountry: Belgium (Flemish Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:A transitional qualification and title awardedto students who successfully complete a 2-yearfirst cycle of university study in philosophyand ethics. The examinations (written and/ororal as the teacher decides) are organised bythe individual institution and cover all thesubjects studied. The degree indicates thename of the institution and the title of thediploma, while a supplement gives details ofthe subjects studied and the marks awarded.This corresponds to the degree � Kandidaatin de in other fields of study. It gives studentsentry to the second cycle of university studies.

BaccalaureusCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Baccalaurei

Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title obtained on the basis of the �Getuigschrift van het afsluitend examen. Thetitle is used by graduates in non-technicalfields. Graduates in the fields of engineering,agriculture and environmental science use thetitle � Ingenieur. Abbreviation: Bc., placedbefore the name. In international contexts, allhbo-graduates may use the title � Bachelor,in abbreviated form B. placed after the name.The abbreviation may be followed by lettersindicating the field of study.

BacharelCountry: PortugalGrammatical variants: BacharéisLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title conferred on students who haveobtained the � Bacharelato degree.

BacharelatoCountry: PortugalGrammatical variants: BacharelatosLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded by university andpolytechnic higher education institutions atthe end of a specific course (usually 3 years)attesting to a scientific, academic or culturaleducation sufficient for the exercise of certainprofessional activities. It is awarded on thebasis of the student’s participation andsemester and annual examination results in allsubjects. The form of the certificate variesfrom one institution to the other but alwaysindicates the subject area and thequalification or classification awarded. Itconfers the title � Bacharel and gives accessto employment or to further study leading tothe � Licenciatura degree.

Bachelier(ère)Country: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Title conferred on pupils who have obtainedthe � Baccalauréat certificate.


BachelorCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Bacheloren, Bachelorer, BachelorerneLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title of graduates who have obtained the �Bachelorgrad. It is followed by the name ofthe field concerned. Abbreviations: B.Sc.(Bachelor of Science) in natural sciences andengineering and B.A. (Bachelor of Arts) in allother fields.

BachelorCountry: GermanyLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Higher education degree that will be availablein the future to students who successfullycomplete a basic programme of study at auniversity, Fachhochschule or otherinstitution of higher education normallyrequiring a minimum of 3 years and amaximum of 4 years, leading to a firstqualification for a career. The minimumperiod of study laid down is in the interest ofquality assurance. Bachelor courses have beenintroduced on a pilot basis in a large numberof higher education institutions since thebeginning of the 1990s.

BachelorCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: BachelorsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title used by all hbo-graduates ininternational contexts. Abbreviation: B.written after the name. The abbreviation maybe followed by letters indicating the field ofstudy. Used for � Baccalaureus, �Ingenieur.

Bachelor of (+ specialisation)Country: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title describing the holder of a � Bachelor’sdegree. The title includes the specialisation inwhich the degree was taken, e.g. Bachelor ofArts.

Bachelor’s degreeCountry: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded to students whosuccessfully complete a first-degree course inuniversities and other higher educationinstitutions, normally involving 3, but in somesubjects up to 6, years of undergraduate study.Arts and science degrees may be taken atgeneral or honours level, the latter demandingmore specialised study at a higher level.Honours degrees are classified as first, second(upper/lower or I/II) or third class while generaldegrees are unclassified, i.e. on a pass/fail basisor with credit. Degrees are generally awardedon the basis of the student’s results in a finalexamination which may, depending on theinstitution, be combined with marks obtained inintermediate examinations and/or in assessedcourse work and/or, depending on the subject,practical work. Degrees are designatedBachelor of Arts, Education, Law, Medicine,Science etc. according to the field of study, theofficial form frequently being in Latin. Holdersof a good honours degree may proceed to ahigher degree (� Master’s degree or �Doctorate). Holders of a general degreemay proceed to certain post-graduatecourses, e.g. teacher training, or to a professional qualification or enteremployment. Abbreviations: BA, BBS, B.Ed. (Bachelor of Education), B. Eng., LL. B (Bachelor of Laws), M.B. (Bachelor ofMedicine), B.Sc.

Bachelor’s degreeCountry: United Kingdom Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:In general, first degree awarded to studentswho successfully complete an undergraduatedegree course at a university or other highereducation institution normally lasting for 3years (4 years in Scotland) although longer insome subjects, such as medicine. Bachelor’sdegrees may be taken in one or more than onesubject at ordinary (general or pass) or athonours level, the latter demanding morespecialised study at a higher level. Ordinary(general or pass) degrees are not graded.


Honours degrees are normally classified asfirst, second and third class. Students who donot achieve a high enough standard for anhonours degree may be awarded a pass degree.Second class degrees are further divided intotwo divisions, upper and lower, also known as2i and 2ii. (Students are normally required tosit final examinations but the classification ofthe degree usually takes into account thestudent’s performance in interim examinationsand coursework). Degree certificates normallyindicate the name of the institution, thesubject(s) studied and, where appropriate, forhow long, and the grade obtained.The most common general Bachelor’s degreesare those in arts and science, abbreviated toBA and B.Sc. respectively. However,universities are free to decide on thedesignation of their degrees, and study of thesame subject can lead to different degrees indifferent institutions. Holders of a good honours degree (first classor upper second) may proceed to study for ahigher degree � Master’s degree, or �Doctorate. Graduates may also proceed tostudy for a � Postgraduate Certificate/Diploma, or for a professional qualification,or enter the labour market. Holders areentitled to use the designatory letters BA,B.Sc. etc. after their name.Exceptionally, certain Bachelor’s degrees – inparticular, the Bachelor of Philosophy and theBachelor of Letters – are in fact postgraduatedegrees.

BachelorgradCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: -graden, -grader,-graderneLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:First university degree awarded after 3 yearsof study (3½ years in engineering). There isno Bachelor degree in Pharmacy, Theology,Medicine, Veterinary Medicine or Dentistry.Study programmes include project workequivalent to a minimum of two months’ full-time work. There is not only one finalexamination at the end, but examinations atthe end of the teaching of each individualsubject throughout the course of study. The

degree mentions the subjects examined,credits obtained in any other examinations,the marks obtained, and the title and the fieldof specialisation. It confers the title �Bachelor and gives access to studies leadingto the � Candidatus.

BachillerCountry: SpainLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded at the end ofupper secondary general education (3 years ofBachillerato Unificado y Polivalente – BUPunder the education system in effect prior tothe reform of 1990, or 2 years of Bachilleratodefined by the 1990 Organic Law on theGeneral Organisation of the Education System– Ley Orgánica de Ordenación General delSistema Educativo – LOGSE). It is awarded topupils who have passed in their continuousassessment in each subject. Pupils who havereceived the BUP certificate in a generalupper secondary school can proceed to a 1-year pre-university preparatory course (Cursode Orientación Universitaria – COU) beforetaking the university entrance examination �Pruebas de Acceso a la Universidad, to uppersecondary vocational training (Formaciónprofesional de segundo grado – FP II) or toemployment. Pupils who have received theBachillerato certificate in a secondary schoolhave direct access to the � Pruebas de Accesoa la Universidad, to advanced non-universityvocational training (Formación profesionalespecífica de grado superior) or to artistichigher education (generally if they havereceived the certificate � Título profesionaldel grado medio de + specialisation).

BA-grádaCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: BA-gráduLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:General first degree awarded to students whosuccessfully complete a 3- to 4 ½-year firstcourse of university education ending withthe � BA-próf examination in the field of artsand social sciences. It mentions the subjectsand the results obtained in the examination. It


gives access to university education in thecorresponding field at post-graduate level. Itconfers the title � BA.

BakalárCountry: SlovakiaGrammatical variants: Bakalári, Bakalár*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded by university institutions tostudents who have obtained the � Diplomindicating the field of study pursued and �Vysvedèenie o �tátnej skú�ke certificate.Abbreviation: Bc.

Bakalár (+ field of study)Country: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants: Bakaláøi, Bakaláø*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe � Vysoko�kolský diplom degree and a �Vysvìdèení o státní závìreèné zkou�ce

certificate. Abbreviation: Bc., and BcA. in thefield of arts.

Bakalavur (ББааккааллааввъърр) Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants: BakalavriLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who pass the �Durjaven izpit examination or defended athesis and obtained the � Diploma zazavurchena stepen na vischeto obrazovaniequalification.

BA-prófCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: -prófi, -prófsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination held at the end of the first cycleof university education lasting 3 to 4 ½ yearsin the field of arts and social sciences. It iscompulsory for obtaining the degree � BA-gráda, conferring the title � BA. It includes afinal dissertation and/or a research project, aswell as tests throughout the courses of study,the content and assessment of which varydepending on the individual institution.

BarnmorskeexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Graduate diploma in the field of midwifery,awarded after a 1½-year programme of full-time study. Being a registered nurse is aprecondition for admission to the programme.The degree certificate normally mentions thesubjects passed and the marks and gradesobtained. The degree gives access toemployment.

BBSCountry: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Bachelor of BusinessStudies, � Bachelor’s degree awarded by theNational Council for Academic Awards in arange of specialisations to students whosuccessfully complete a degree programme of4 years ab initio or 1 year following a �National Diploma. Classification isdetermined by the student’s performance.

Bc.Country: Czech RepublicLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Bakaláø.

Bc.Country: The NetherlandsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Baccalaureus. Theabbreviation is written after the name andmay be followed by letters indicating the fieldof study.

Bc.Country: SlovakiaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Bakalár.

Bc.A.Country: Czech RepublicLevel of education: Higher


Explanatory note:Abbreviation of � Bakaláø in the field of arts.

BEdCountry: IcelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students in the first cycle ofuniversity in the field of educational scienceswho obtain the degree � BEd-gráda.

BEd-grádaCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: BEd-gráduLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:First degree awarded to students whosuccessfully complete a 3- to 4 ½-year firstcourse of university education ending with the �BEd-próf examination in the field of educationalsciences. It mentions the subjects and the resultsobtained in the examination. It gives access touniversity education in the corresponding field atpost-graduate level and to the teachingprofession at the level of compulsory education.It confers the title � BEd.

BEd-prófCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: -prófi, -prófsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination held at the end of the first cycleof university education lasting 3 to 4 ½ yearsin the field of educational sciences. It iscompulsory for obtaining the degree � BEd-gráda, conferring the title � BEd. It includesa final dissertation and/or a research project,as well as tests throughout the courses ofstudy, the content and assessment of whichvary depending on the individual institution.

Befähigungsnachweis des sechsten JahresCountry: Belgium (German-speaking Com-munity)Grammatical variants: Befähigungsnach-weise, Befähigungsnachweis*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded after the sixth year oftechnical or vocational secondary education to

pupils who have successfully completed theirvocational training and have taken acorresponding examination before membersof the trade or occupation. It indicates thetype of education and specialisation and givesaccess to the relevant trade or occupation.

BEPCountry: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Brevet d’études profes-sionnelles.

Berufliche AbschlussprüfungCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Berufliche Abschluss-prüfungen, Berufliche Abschlussprüfung*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Second part of the final examination at theend of courses leading to two qualifications(doppeltqualifizierende Bildungsgänge)(general and vocational) in upper secondaryeducation at a berufliches Gymnasium,Fachgymnasium or Berufsfachschule. Thefirst part, the � Abiturprüfung, leads to the �Allgemeine Hochschulreife and gives right ofaccess to higher education. The second part,the Berufliche Abschlussprüfung, consists ofa written and a practical test and leads tovocational qualifications, for example as anErzieher (qualified youth or child careworker), physikalisch-technischer Assistent(paramedical assistant) or kaufmännischerAssistent (clerical assistant), thus providing avocational qualification under Land law.

Berufsbildungsreife Country: GermanyLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Synonym of � Hauptschulabschluss.

BerufsmaturaCountry: LiechtensteinLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Synonym of � Fachhochschulreifeprüfung.


Berufsqualifizierender AbschlussCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: BerufsqualifizierenderAbschluß, Berufsqualifizierende Abschlüsse,Berufsqualifizierend* Abschluss*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification of a vocational trainingprogramme in the duales System based on thecompletion of compulsory general educationat the end of lower secondary education. Thecertificate gives access to the relevantoccupation as a qualified worker in one ofapproximately 350 recognised occupationsrequiring formal training (anerkannteAusbildungsberufe).

BerufsreifeprüfungCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Berufsreifeprüfungen,Berufsreifeprüfung*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Examination for candidates who have nottaken the � Reifeprüfung. It may be taken bythose who have successfully completed thesecondary technical and vocational school(berufsbildende mittlere Schule) or a �Lehrabschlussprüfung. The examination isorganised by recognised upper secondaryschools and consists of written and oralexaminations in four subjects – German,mathematics, a modern foreign language anda specialised subject. It leads to the award ofthe � Berufsreifeprüfungszeugnis.

BerufsreifeprüfungszeugnisCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Berufsreifeprüfungs-zeugnisse, Berufsreifeprüfungszeugnis*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by recognised secondaryschools to pupils successful in the �Berufsreifeprüfung. The subjects passed andthe grades achieved are indicated. It givesunrestricted access to higher education(allgemeine Hochschulreife) but does notconfer any occupational rights.

Betyg över avlagd yrkesexamen på andrastadiet

Country: FinlandGrammatical variants: Betyget, BetygenLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Todistus toisen asteenammatillisista opinnoista.

Betyg över kombinationsstudierCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: Betyget, BetygenLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Todistusyhdistelmäopinnoista.

Betyg över läroavtalsutbildningCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: Betyget, BetygenLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Todistusoppisopimuskoulutuksesta.

Bevis for (+ field of study)Country: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Beviset, Beviser,BeviserneLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by institutions of non-university higher education at the end of a short-or medium-term course of higher educationstudies, or by universities at the end of somepart-time programmes. The duration variesbetween 2 and 4 years (5 years for exportengineering – eksportingeniør). There is a finalexamination, which varies depending on thefield, but essentially comprised of written andoral examinations, as well as writtenassignments. The examining board can becomposed of internal or external examiners,appointed by the Ministry of Education on therecommendation of the institution. The degreementions the marks obtained in theexaminations and the title awarded, usuallythe name of the trade or occupation to whichit gives access (for example, Journalist,Sygeplejerske, Byggetekniker, Markedsøkonom,Fysioterapeut). This is also calledEksamensbevis som + field of study.


Bevis for Højere ForberedelseseksamenCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Beviset, Beviser,BeviserneLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who pass the �Højere Forberedelseseksamen. It includes themarks obtained in the examination in thecommon core subjects, the optional subjectsand in the major written assignment. Theexamination result is the average of thesemarks. It is a basic qualification for entry tohigher education.

Bevis for Højere HandelseksamenCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Beviset, Beviser,BeviserneLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who pass the �Højere Handelseksamen. It includes themarks for the entire school year, the marksobtained in the examinations, their respectiveaverages, and the average of these averages. Itis a basic qualification for entry to highereducation and to employment.

Bevis for Højere Teknisk EksamenCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Beviset, Beviser,BeviserneLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who pass the �Højere Teknisk Eksamen. It includes themarks for the entire school year, the marksobtained in the examinations, their respectiveaverages, and the average of these averages. Itis a basic qualification for entry to highereducation and to employment.

BilledkunstnerCountry: DenmarkLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to graduates who have obtainedthe � Billedkunstnergrad.

BilledkunstnergradCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: -graden, -grader,-graderneLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded by the Royal Academy ofFine Arts to students who successfullycomplete studies lasting 5 or 6 years in visualarts. There is no final examination, butcontinuous assessment of the artistic work ofthe student throughout the course, as well asa final assignment. The degree mentions onlythe artistic field concerned. It confers the title� Billedkunstner and gives access toemployment, as well as to studies lasting 2years to become an art teacher in this field(Kunstformidler).

BrevetCountry: FranceLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who havepassed the national final examination (of thesame name) held at the end of lowersecondary education lasting 4 years (collège).The examination is organised at départementlevel. It involves three examinations (inFrench, mathematics, and history andgeography). Marks in the assessment duringthe final 2 years are also taken into account inawarding this certificate. It mentions the typeof education (general, technological orvocational). It has replaced the Brevet descollèges certificate since 1986. Admission toupper secondary education is not conditionalon this certificate.

Brevet d’études professionnellesCountry: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who pass the(compulsory) national final examinationmarking the successful conclusion of the last 2years of upper secondary vocational education(initial training lasting 2 years in a lycéeprofessionnel, continuing training or distancelearning). The examinations consist of twoseries of written and oral tests covering general


and vocational subjects. The certificate mentionsthe specialisation. It gives access to employmentas a skilled worker and to preparatory classes forthe vocational or technological � Baccalauréat.Abbreviation: BEP.

Brevet de maîtriseCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of technical and vocationalproficiency. This is the highest vocationaltraining qualification in Luxembourg. It isawarded following 3 years of study afterobtaining the � Certificat d’aptitudetechnique et professionnelle and gives accessto employment. Synonym: Maîtrise.

Brevet de technicienCountry: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who pass the(compulsory) national final examinationorganised at the end of general ortechnological upper secondary education. Theexamination is set by the national educationauthorities and consists of written, oral andpractical tests. In the field of agriculture, thiscertificate is called Brevet de technicienagricole. It confers the title � Agenttechnique breveté or � Technicien breveté.The certificate mentions the specialisation. Itgives access to employment. The pupils whoreceived the highest marks have access tonon-university higher education in theirspecialisation leading to the � Brevet detechnicien supérieur certificate.Abbreviations: BT and BTA for thespecialisation in agriculture.

Brevet de technicien supérieurCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to students on completingthe examinations called for in the 2-yearprogramme of non-university higher education.Examinations are organised by each institutioneither at the end of or during a course and varydepending on the type of education and

specialisation. The certificate mentions thespecialisation and gives access either toemployment or to further studies. It confers thetitle �Technicien supérieur. Abbreviation: BTS.

Brevet de technicien supérieurCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification certifying the completion ofstudies awarded following 2 years of post-secondary vocational training in technicallycées (upper secondary schools), following afinal examination held by the Ministry ofEducation and covering the subjects on thecurriculum of the different sections(secretarial studies and office automation,accounting/management, overseas trade/marketing and cartoon animation). Thequalification mentions the speciality and themark obtained. It gives access toemployment. Abbreviation: BTS.

BSCountry: IcelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students in the first cycle ofuniversity in the field of economics, businessadministration, medicine, natural sciencesand engineering, who have obtained thedegree � BS-gráda.

BScCountry: United KingdomLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Bachelor of Science. See �Bachelor’s degree.

BS-grádaCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: BS-gráduLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:First degree awarded to students whosuccessfully complete a 3- to 4 ½-year firstcourse of university education ending withthe � BS-próf. It mentions the subjects andthe results obtained in the examination. It


gives access to university education in thecorresponding field at post-graduate level. Inaddition, in the field of nursing andphysiotherapy, it gives professionalcertification. It confers the title � BS.

BS-prófCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: -prófi, -prófsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination held at the end of the first cycleof university education lasting 3 to 4 ½ yearsin the field of economics, businessadministration, medicine, natural sciences andengineering. It is compulsory for obtaining thedegree � BS-gráda, conferring the title � BS.It includes a final dissertation and/or aresearch project, as well as tests throughoutthe courses of study, the content andassessment of which vary depending on theindividual institution.

BTCountry: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Brevet de technicien.

BTACountry: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Brevet de technicien agricole.See � Brevet de technicien.

BTEC First Certificate/First Diploma/First Qualification

Country: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Business and TechnologyEducation Council First Certificate/FirstDiploma/First Qualification. See � Businessand Technology Education Council FirstQualification.

BTEC HNC/HNDCountry: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Business and TechnologyEducation Council Higher NationalCertificate/Higher National Diploma. See �Higher National Certificate, � HigherNational Diploma.

BTSCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Brevet de techniciensupérieur.

BTSCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Brevet de techniciensupérieur.

Business and Technology Education CouncilFirst Qualification

Country: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:This qualification is awarded at both certificateand diploma levels. The BTEC FirstCertificate is normally awarded after 2 years’part-time study and the BTEC First Diplomaafter 2 years’ full-time study, usually followingcompletion of compulsory education. Offeredby the Edexcel Foundation, an independentawarding body, and regulated by theQualifications and Curriculum Authority.Assessed internally by a combination of courseassignments and end-of-year examinations,and moderated by Edexcel to standardisemarking. Final qualifications are graded pass,merit or distinction and this is indicated.Progression to � National VocationalQualification (Level 3) and � A level.Abbreviation: BTEC First Certificate/FirstDiploma/First Qualification.


Cand.Country: IcelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Kandidat followed by thename of the specialisation (also in theabbreviated form), e.g. cand. pharm. inpharmacy and cand. oecon. in economics.

Cand. (+ abbreviation of field of study)Country: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Candidatus followed bythe name of the field of study in theabbreviated form, for example cand.med. inthe field of medicine, cand.agric. in the fieldof agriculture and cand.theol. in the field oftheology.

Cand.mag.Country: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Candidatus magisterii.

Candidat(e) en (+ specialisation)Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have receivedthe � Candidature en (+ specialisation).

Candidature en (+ specialisation)Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: Higher

Explanatory note:Certificate awarded to students who have passedthe examinations set by the individual institutionas required under the programme in each subjectat the end of 2 or 3 years of first-cycle universityor long-type non-university higher education. Itis awarded by the universities and equivalentinstitutions, Hautes Écoles and InstitutsSupérieurs d’Architecture. The certificatementions the specialisation, subjects taken andfinal mark awarded. It confers the title �Candidat(e) en (+ specialisation) and givesaccess to second-cycle university education orlong-type non-university higher education.

Candidatus Country: DenmarkGrammatical variants: CandidataLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to graduates who have obtainedthe � Kandidatgrad (Master’s degree level).It is followed by the Latin name of the fieldconcerned, very often in the abbreviatedform, for example, candidatus medicinaeveterinariae (abbreviation: cand.med.vet.).Synonym: Kandidat.

Candidatus (+ field of study) Country: NorwayGrammatical variants: CandidataLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree and title awarded to students whopass written and oral final examinations andsubmit a final dissertation at the end of

C c


university and non-university studies lasting 5to 7 years at a university or other highereducation institution. This certificate can alsobe awarded to students holding a �Candidatus magisterii or equivalentcertificate who pass final examinations at theend of post-graduate university studies lasting1½ to 2 years. The examinations are set byeach institution and assessed by twoexaminers, of whom one is external in order toavoid the possibility of bias. The certificatementions the student’s results in theexaminations, the average of the marks in themain subjects, the subject of their finaldissertation and its assessment. It gives accessto employment and/or to studies for adoctorate. The term Candidatus is alwaysfollowed by the name of the field of study, forexample candidatus medicinae in the field ofmedicine, candidatus musicae in the field ofmusic and candidatus oeconomiae in the fieldof economics. Abbreviation: Cand. followedby the name of the field of study also in theabbreviated form.

Candidatus magisteriiCountry: NorwayGrammatical variants: Candidata magisteriiLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:First degree and title awarded to students whopass written and oral final examinations at theend of undergraduate university and non-university studies lasting 4 years (3½ years innatural sciences). The examinations are set byeach institution and assessed by twoexaminers, of whom one is external in order toavoid the possibility of bias. The certificatementions the student’s results in the finalexaminations and the average of the marks inthe main subjects. It gives access to post-graduate studies in the principal field.Abbreviation: Cand.mag.

CAPCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificat d’aptitudepédagogique.

CAPCountry: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificat d’aptitudeprofessionnelle.

CAPECountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificat d’aptitude auprofessorat des écoles.

CAPESCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificat d’aptitude auprofessorat de l’enseignement secondaire.

Carta DoutoralCountry: PortugalGrammatical variants: Cartas DoutoraisLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded by universities to studentswho have passed the �Prova de doutoramentoexamination. The programme consists ofcarrying out an individual investigation chosenby the student and directed and supervised by aprofessor or doctoral researcher. The durationof the project can vary from 3 to 6 years. Theform of the certificate varies from oneinstitution to the other but always indicates thefield of study and the qualification awarded. Itconfers the title � Doutor.

Carta MagistralCountry: PortugalGrammatical variants: Cartas MagistraisLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded by universities to students whohave participated in and passed the taughtcurriculum making up the specialised courses (2years on average) for the � Diploma deConclusão da Parte Curricular do Mestradoand prepared, been examined in and hadapproved an original dissertation (dissertação demestrado), testifying to advanced knowledge in


a particular field and ability to carry out research.The examining board consists of one internal andone external professor in the special subject areaand the director of study for the dissertation. Itmay also include another two academic membersof staff of the university awarding the degree.The form of the certificate varies from oneinstitution to the other but always indicates thesubject area, the grade awarded and thequalification obtained. It confers the title �Mestre. It gives access to further study leading tothe � Carta Doutoral degree.

CATPCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificat d’aptitudetechnique et professionnelle.

CCMCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificat de CapacitéManuelle.

CEBCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: Primary/lower secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificat d’Études de Base.

Centraal examenCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Centrale examensLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:A compulsory national examination set underthe same conditions for all general secondaryschools (school types vbo, mavo, havo, vwo).It is taken in the schools in the final year ofsecondary education, at a time specified bythe Minister for Education. It consists of awritten test for each examination subject.Tests, assessment and marking are based onnational norms. For each school type, there isa central examination for a chosencombination of examination subjects (6subjects in vbo, mavo and havo; 7 subjects invwo). Dutch and one modern language are

compulsory subjects in all school types,except the vbo in which a modern language isnot compulsory. The centraal examen is partof the � Eindexamen (school-leavingexamination).

CertificaatCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: CertificatenLevel of education: Lower/upper secondary Explanatory note:Leaving certificate, awarded to pupils whohave passed one or more compulsoryexamination subjects in the partial school-leaving examination � Deeleindexamen ofsecondary general education (school typesvbo, mavo, havo, vwo).The model of this certificate is prescribed bythe Minister for Education. It mentions theschool type, the subject(s) passed (in which amark of 6 or more out of 10 is obtained), thefinal grade for each subject, the mark(s) in theinternal school examination � Schoolexamenand the mark(s) in the partial examination �Deeleindexamen and the date of the final result.After the pupil has passed all the compulsoryexamination subjects, the certificates arereplaced by one of the following diplomas:� Diploma voorbereidend beroepsonderwijs;� Diploma middelbaar algemeen voortgezetonderwijs; � Diploma middelbaar algemeenvoortgezet onderwijs/voorbereidend beroeps-onderwijs; � Diploma hoger algemeenvoortgezet onderwijs; � Diploma voor-bereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijs.See also � Certificaat staatsexamen, �Certificaat opleiding beroepsonderwijs, �Certificaat middelbaar beroepsonderwijs.

Certificaat havo, mavo, mavo/vbo, mbo, vbo,vwo

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Certificaten havo,mavo, mavo/vbo, mbo, vbo, vwoLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Certificaat hoger algemeenvoortgezet onderwijs, Certificaat middelbaaralgemeen voortgezet onderwijs, Certificaatmiddelbaar algemeen voortgezetonderwijs/voorbereidend beroepsonderwijs,


Certificaat middelbaar beroepsonderwijs,Certificaat voorbereidend beroepsonderwijs,Certificaat voorbereidend wetenschappelijkonderwijs. See � Certificaat and Certificaatmiddelbaar beroepsonderwijs.

Certificaat hoger algemeen voortgezetonderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Certificaten hogeralgemeen voortgezet onderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:See � Certificaat (school type havo).

Certificaat middelbaar algemeen voortgezetonderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Certificaten middelbaaralgemeen voortgezet onderwijsLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:See � Certificaat (school type mavo).

Certificaat middelbaar algemeen voortgezetonderwijs/voorbereidend beroepsonderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Certificaten middelbaaralgemeen voortgezet onderwijs/voorbereidendberoepsonderwijsLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:See � Certificaat (school type mavo/vbo).

Certificaat middelbaar beroepsonderwijsCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Certificaten middelbaarberoepsonderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate, awarded to pupils whohave passed a partial examination of asecondary vocational education course. Afterthe pupil has passed all the tests for thesecondary vocational education course, thecertificates are replaced by the diploma �Diploma middelbaar beroepsonderwijs. Themodel of this certificate is prescribed by theMinister for Education. It mentions the name ofthe sector (sector), the department (afdeling),the name and level of the course (opleiding)

and the examination subjects passed.Separately there is a list of marks per subject(also mentioning the name of the sector etc.).Note: This will gradually be replaced bycertificates under the law on adult andvocational education, introduced in 1996 (Weteducatie en beroepsonderwijs). See �Certificaat opleiding beroepsonderwijs.

Certificaat opleiding beroepsonderwijsCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Certificaten opleidingberoepsonderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate, awarded to pupils who havepassed a test for a defined part of a vocationaltraining programme deelkwalificatie. Afterpupils pass all the tests for thedeelkwalificaties of a vocational trainingcourse (opleiding beroepsonderwijs orberoepsopleiding), their certificates arereplaced by the diploma � Diplomaopleiding beroepsonderwijs. The model ofthe certificate is not prescribed by theMinister for Education. The competentauthority (school board) of the institutiondraws up its own teaching and examinationregulations, and these are submitted to theInspectorate for approval. The school boardconcerned issues the certificate.

Certificaat staatsexamenCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants:Certificaten staatsexamenLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate, awarded to pupils whopass one or more compulsory examinationsubjects in the partial state examination �Deelstaatsexamen of secondary generaleducation (school types mavo, havo, vwo). Themodel of this certificate is prescribed by theMinister for Education. It mentions: the schooltype, the subject(s) passed (in which the mark6 or more out of 10 is obtained), the final gradefor each subject, and the date of the final result.After pupils pass all the compulsoryexamination subjects, their certificates arereplaced by one of the diplomas:


Diploma staatsexamen middelbaar algemeenvoortgezet onderwijs; Diploma staatsexamenhoger algemeen voortgezet onderwijs; Diplomastaatsexamen voorbereidend wetenschappelijkonderwijs. See � Diploma staatsexamen.The certificates and diplomas awarded via the� Deelstaatsexamen are equivalent to theseawarded in full-time secondary generaleducation. See also � Certificaat.

Certificaat staatsexamen havo, mavo, vwoCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants:Certificaten staatsexamen havo, mavo, vwoLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Certificaat staatsexamenhoger algemeen voortgezet onderwijs, Certifi-caat staatsexamen middelbaar algemeenvoortgezet onderwijs, Certificaat staatsexa-men voorbereidend wetenschappelijk onder-wijs. See � Certificaat staatsexamen.

Certificaat staatsexamen hoger algemeenvoortgezet onderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Certificaten staats-examen hoger algemeen voortgezet onderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:See � Certificaat staatsexamen (school typehavo).

Certificaat staatsexamen middelbaaralgemeen voortgezet onderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants:Certificaten staatsexamen middelbaar algemeenvoortgezet onderwijsLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:See � Certificaat staatsexamen (school typemavo).

Certificaat staatsexamen voorbereidendwetenschappelijk onderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants:Certificaten staatsexamen voorbereidendwetenschappelijk onderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondary

Explanatory note:See � Certificaat staatsexamen (school typevwo).

Certificaat voorbereidend beroepsonderwijsCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants:Certificaten voorbereidend beroepsonderwijsLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:See � Certificaat (school type vbo).

Certificaat voorbereidend wetenschappelijkonderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Certificaten voor-bereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:See � Certificaat (school type vwo).

Certificación académica del ciclo elementalde las enseñanzas de idiomas

Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Certificaciones académicas del ciclo elemental de lasenseñanzas de idiomasLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who havepassed the final examination at the end of 3years of the elementary cycle of the first levelof language studies in an official languageschool (Escuela Oficial de Idiomas). Thewritten and oral final examination isorganised by each institution and covers theforeign language studied. The certificatementions the language studied. It gives accessto the advanced cycle of the first level oflanguage studies in the same kind of schoolleading to the certificate � Certificado deaptitud del ciclo superior de las enseñanzasde idiomas.

Certificado acreditativo del grado elementalde (+ specialisation)

Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Certificadosacreditativos del grado elemental deLevel of education: Lower secondary


Explanatory note:Certificate awarded at the end of 4 years of theelementary level of dance or music studies topupils who have passed in the continuousassessment during these studies. It involves twoareas of specialisation, music and dance, andmentions the subjects taken and the field studiedin the case of the music studies. This certificateentitles pupils to take the entrance examinationsfor intermediate music or dance studies.

Certificado de aptitud del ciclo superior delas enseñanzas de idiomas

Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Certificados deaptitud del ciclo superior de las enseñanzas deidiomasLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who have passedthe final examination at the end of 2 years ofthe advanced cycle of the first level oflanguage studies in an official languageschool (Escuela Oficial de Idiomas). Thewritten and oral final examination is organisedby each institution and covers the foreignlanguage studied. The certificate mentions thelanguage studied. The certificate is a usefulsupplementary qualification for teachers intheir competitive examinations to becomecivil servants and for advancing their careers.

Certificado de EscolaridadCountry: SpainGrammatical variants: Certificados deEscolaridadLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who did notobtain the � Graduado Escolar certificate atthe end of their 8 years of compulsoryeducation (Educación General Básica – EGB)under the education system in effect prior tothe 1990 Organic Law on the GeneralOrganisation of the Education System (LeyOrgánica de Ordenación General del SistemaEducativo – LOGSE). This certificate has notbeen awarded since the 1997/98 school year.It gives access to upper secondary vocationaltraining or, in the new education systemestablished by the LOGSE, to the second stage

of compulsory lower secondary education(Educación Secundaria Obligatoria – ESO).

Certificat + (specialisation)Country: LuxembourgLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate, awarded by the UniversityCentre, which lists the subjects studied,obtained following successful completion ofthe single year of studies. Holders are able topursue their second year of studies inGerman, Austrian, Belgian, British or Frenchuniversities. The different fields ofspecialisation are mentioned on the certificate(e.g. Certificat d’Études Juridiques etÉconomiques, d’Études Littéraires et deSciences Humaines, d’Études scientifiques).

Certificat d’aptitude au professorat del’enseignement secondaire

Country: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to students who havepassed the competition to recruit generalsecondary education teachers. Thecompetition is open to holders of a certificateawarded in any EU Member State or EEAcountry at the end of at least 3 years, or in acountry outside the EU at the end of at least 4years, of education at the post-secondarylevel. The competition is organised atnational level and consists of a writtenexamination which, if passed, entitlesstudents to take the oral examination.Students may prepare for this competition inan institut universitaire de formation desmaîtres (IUFM) (University institute for thetraining of teachers). The certificate mentionsthe field of study and gives students access toa year of pedagogical training in an IUFMbefore they begin to teach. It confers the title� Professeur certifié. Abbreviation: CAPES.

Certificat d’aptitude au professorat des écolesCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to students who pass thecompetition to recruit teachers for nursery and


primary schools (maternelles and élémentaires).The competition is open to holders of acertificate awarded in any Member States of theEU or in an EEA country at the end of at least 3years of post-secondary education. Thecompetition can be prepared (optionally) in aninstitut universitaire de formation des maîtres(IUFM) (University institute for the training ofteachers). The competition is organised atregional level and consists of a written and anoral examination. It confers the title �Professeur des écoles. The certificate givesstudents access to a year of pedagogical trainingin an institut universitaire de formation desmaîtres before they begin to teach.Abbreviation: CAPE.

Certificat d’aptitude pédagogiqueCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Non-academic professional certificate awardedto intending teachers who have already receiveda technical certificate at lower secondary, uppersecondary or higher education level and whohave passed the final examination organised bythe French Community. The examinationconsists of a written part (résumé, explanationsand commentaries on a text related to theteaching function) and an oral test (a lessondetermined by the examination board and anoral examination on psychology, pedagogy,methodology and the practice of teaching).Candidates can take courses of preparation inÉcoles d’enseignement supérieur de Promotionsociale (Higher education colleges of adulteducation) or sit the examination directly. Thecertificate gives access to teaching technicalsubjects at lower and upper secondary levels.Abbreviation: CAP.

Certificat d’aptitude professionnelleCountry: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Vocational aptitude certificate awarded topupils who pass the (compulsory) national finalexamination after 2 years of upper secondaryvocational education in a branch of industry, acraft or a service sector. The examinationconsists of written, oral and practical tests set bythe national education authorities. This

certificate can be awarded after initial traininglasting 2 years in a lycée professionnel, incontinuing education or in distance learning. Itmentions the specialisation and gives access toemployment. Pupils who receive the highestmarks can be admitted to long-cycletechnological education leading to certain typesof technological certificates � Baccalauréat.Holders can also undertake an additional yearof specialisation. Abbreviation: CAP.

Certificat d’aptitude technique etprofessionnelle

Country: LuxembourgLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:General certificate, awarded at the end of the� Examen de fin d’apprentissage, at the endof the final year of education (year 12,referred to as essentially practical) to pupilswho have successfully completed both theschool-based and the practical training. Thiscertificate mentions the pupil’s specialisation,without indicating the marks or the subjectsstudied. It gives access to study for the �Brevet de maîtrise and to employment.Abbreviation: CATP.

Certificat d’Enseignement Secondaire dudeuxième degré

Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who pass thefirst and second stages of transitional general,technical or artistic secondary education orthe first and second stages of qualifyingvocational, technical or artistic secondaryeducation. It entitles pupils to enter the thirdstage of transitional or qualifying education.Since 1997/98, it has replaced the �Certificat d’Enseignement SecondaireInférieur. Abbreviation: CESDD.

Certificat d’Enseignement SecondaireInférieur

Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who pass thefirst 2 years (observation stage) and a third


year of transitional general, technical orartistic secondary education or a third andfourth year of qualifying vocational, technicalor artistic secondary education. Since1997/98, this has been replaced by the �Certificat d’Enseignement Secondaire dudeuxième degré. Abbreviation: CESI.

Certificat d’Enseignement SecondaireSupérieur

Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils on the basis oftheir academic results in the final year ofgeneral, technical, artistic (6 years) orvocational (7 years) upper secondaryeducation. Most schools set an internal finalexamination covering the principal subjects(determined by each school). The certificatementions the branch (type of education andsection). It is the minimum qualification foraccess to university and non-university highereducation. Holders of this certificate in avocational branch have access only to non-university short-type higher education. Theycan, however, gain access to university highereducation or to long-type non-universityhigher education by obtaining the � Diplômed’Aptitude à accéder à l’EnseignementSupérieur certificate. Abbreviation: CESS.

Certificat d’Études de BaseCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: Primary/lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who pass the finalschool year or the � Examen cantonal or �Examen (inter)diocésain final examinations setat the end of primary education (6 years). Themeeting of all the teachers of the class (conseil declasse) can also award it to pupils who havepassed the assessment of the first or second year(A or B) or the second year (C – common or P –vocational) in lower secondary education. Itgives full rights of access to secondary education.Abbreviation: CEB.

Certificat d’études pédagogiquesCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Higher

Explanatory note:State certificate awarded by the Ministry ofEducation and Vocational Training, markingthe successful conclusion of 3 years of studiesat the higher institute of studies andeducational research (Institut supérieurd’études et de recherche pédagogiques –ISERP), following a final examination held bythe Ministry and covering the curriculum ofthe specialisation. The certificate exists in twooptions – primary teaching and pre-schooleducation. The certificate gives entitlement toparticipation in the competitive examinationfor entry to teaching in the chosen field.

Certificat d’études spécialiséesCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to students who hold the �Diplôme d’État de Docteur (State doctorate) indental surgery (odontology) and who havepassed the final examination set at the end of ayear of post-graduate training in the same field.Final examinations are set by each institutionand cover the subjects studied. The certificateattests to the highest level of knowledge in thechosen field. Abbreviation: CES.

Certificat d’Initiation Technique etProfessionnelle

Country: LuxembourgLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of the first stage ofthe two-stage apprenticeship, following aperiod varying from 2 to 4 years. Thecertificate is awarded when a pupil haspassed the examination covering thedifferent courses organised in modules. Italso mentions the specialisation withoutindicating the marks or the subjects studied.This certificate gives access to the secondstage which leads to the � Certificatd’aptitude technique et professionnelle. Italso gives access to employment.

Certificat de absolvireCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Certificatul deabsolvire


Level of education: Upper secondary/post-secondary/higherExplanatory note:• Certificate of completion of general and

specialised secondary schools awardedwithout a final examination to studentswho fail the final national examination �Examen de bacalaureat. It certifies generalqualification and gives access to certainschools of post-secondary education.

• Certificate of completion of post-secondarystudies awarded to students who havepassed the � Examen de absolvire. Itmentions the specialisation and certifiesqualification for a trade or occupation towhich it gives access.

• This certificate can also be obtained inteacher training departments, attached touniversities. It is issued on the basis ofschool results, without a final examination.It mentions the subjects and the marksobtained during the course.

• It is also issued to students who havepassed the �Colocviu examination at the endof a 1-year further training course at post-graduate level. It mentions the specialisationand gives access to employment.

Certificat de capacitateCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Certificatul decapacitateLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of lower secondaryeducation lasting 4 years, issued to pupils whohave passed the final national examination �Examen de capacitate. It mentions thesubjects and the results obtained in theexamination. It gives access to uppersecondary education.

Certificat de Capacité ManuelleCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who have passedonly the practical side of vocational trainingand have therefore passed only the practicalsubjects in the � Examen de fin d’appren-tissage. It mentions the specialisation, without

giving an indication of marks or subjectsstudied. This certificate gives access to low-skilled jobs on the labour market.Abbreviation: CCM.

Certificat de fin d’études secondairesCountry: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Upper secondary school leaving certificateawarded since 1994 to pupils who have failedthe � Baccalauréat examination, but whoachieved an average mark of at least 8/20over all the examinations. It certifies thepupil’s examination results but does not grantaccess to higher education. Abbreviation:CFES.

Certificat de fin de scolaritéCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who completecompulsory education (9 years). There is nospecific examination and it is not necessary tohave passed the year; the pupil needs only tohave completed the 9 years. Passing the yearleads to the award of a grade. It allows thosewho so wish to enter working life or tocontinue either in upper secondary generaleducation or in secondary technicaleducation.

Certificat de formation généraleCountry: FranceLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded since 1989 to youngpeople over the age of 16 who havecompleted the education system withoutreceiving a lower secondary leavingcertificate. It certifies the core knowledgeacquired in French, mathematics and currentaffairs and the preparedness of pupils in thefinal 2 years of specialised lower secondaryeducation to enter social and working life(section d’éducation spécialisée – SES andétablissements régionaux d’enseignementadapté – EREA), i.e. for pupils in the specialeducation section of a collège or in regionalspecial schools. Abbreviation: CFG.


Certificat de QualificationCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by schools of the FrenchCommunity to pupils in either the sixth or theseventh year of technical or artistic educationleading to a qualifying certificate, or the sixth orseventh year of vocational secondary education,or in the context of an education programmewith a reduced time-table under the sameconditions as in full-time education. It givesaccess to employment. Abbreviation: CQ.

Certificat de studii universitare de lungã

duratã

Country: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Certificatul de studiiuniversitare de lungã duratãLevel of education: Higher Explanatory note:Certificate of completion of university studieslasting 4 to 6 years, awarded to students whohave failed the � Examen de licenþã. Itmentions the specialisation obtained during thestudies. It can be obtained on simple request.

Certificat de studii universitare de scurtãduratã

Country: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Certificatul de studiiuniversitare de scurtã duratãLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of short-termuniversity education lasting 3 years, awardedby the institutions attended to students whofail the � Examen de absolvire. It mentionsthe specialisation obtained during the studies.It can be obtained on simple request.

Certificat de synthèse clinique etthérapeutique

Country: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to students who pass the finalexamination organised following advanceduniversity medical (4 years) or dental(odontology) studies (3 years). The examinationis set by each institution and consists of

theoretical or practical examinations in thesubjects studied. The certificate mentions thefield of study although there is no specialisationat this level. It gives access to post-graduateuniversity education. Abbreviation: CSCT.

Certificate in (+ specialisation)Country: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded on completion of a 1-yearor 2-year full-time course in a specifiedsubject area in a non-university college, e.g.Certificate in Dental Nursing. The certificatementions only the specialisation. It givesaccess to employment in certain fields andcan lead to certain forms of further study.

Certificate of AchievementCountry: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification aimed at low-attaining pupilsaged 16 who are unlikely to achieve grade G inthe � General Certificate of SecondaryEducation examinations. Offered by variousindependent qualification-awarding bodies in arange of subjects and regulated by the nationalqualifications and curriculum authorities.Assessed through school-based continuousassessment and externally set tasks and tests.Categorised as an entry level qualificationwithin the National Framework ofqualifications. There are three grades which arealigned with levels 1-3 of the NationalCurriculum, i.e. the levels expected of typical 5,7, and 9 year olds. Pupils may progress to the �General Certificate of Secondary Education.

Certificate of Higher EducationCountry: United KingdomLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:A sub-degree level higher educationqualification usually in a specialised orvocational subject. Courses are offered byuniversities and other higher educationinstitutions and, in Scotland, Colleges of FurtherEducation, and normally take 1 year’s full-timeor 2 years’ part-time study, depending on theinstitution. Some institutions use different terms


for the qualification such as UniversityCertificate or College Certificate. Courses are ofa standard equivalent to the first year of a degreeprogramme and may allow progression to thistype of further study. Although access is notautomatic, successful candidates may alsoprogress to courses leading to membershipexaminations of professional associations or toemployment in a related field. Individualinstitutions decide assessment arrangements andalso what information (such as grades) isprovided on the corresponding certificate; thesubject area would normally be mentioned, e.g.Certificate in Textiles, Certificate inFundamentals of Accountancy. Courses leadingto the Further and Adult Education Teachers’Certificate are open to people with technicalqualifications who wish to teach in furthereducation institutions although the qualificationdoes not guarantee access to employment.

Certificate of Sixth Year StudiesCountry: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:An optional, single-subject, advanced uppersecondary examination, and the resultingqualification, taken by some pupils in a variablenumber of subjects (generally between 2 and 4)chosen by the pupil in the final (6th) year ofsecondary education following one year of studyafter the � Scottish Certificate of Education –Higher Grade examinations. These arenationally standardised examinations organisedand certificated by the Scottish QualificationsAuthority (SQA). Individual examinations mayinclude written, oral and practical componentsand take into account assessed course workthroughout the year. The certificate indicates thesubject(s) examined and the grade(s) obtained bythe pupil on a scale from A to E, grades down toD being regarded as a pass. It may be taken intoaccount, but is not a requirement, for entry tohigher education. Abbreviation: CSYS.

CESCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificat d’étudesspécialisées.

CESDDCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificat d’EnseignementSecondaire du deuxième degré.

CESICountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificat d’EnseignementSecondaire Inférieur.

CESSCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificat d’EnseignementSecondaire Supérieur.

CFESCountry: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificat de fin d’étudessecondaires.

CFGCountry: FranceLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificat de formationgénérale.

CITO-toetsCountry: The NetherlandsLevel of education: PrimaryExplanatory note:Synonym of � Eindtoets Basisonderwijs.

CITPCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificat d’InitiationTechnique et Professionnelle.


City & Guilds Diploma of VocationalEducation Foundation level

Country: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Vocational qualification designed to be takenalongside the � General Certificate ofSecondary Education, by 14- to 16-year-oldsof all abilities. It aims to develop personal andsocial skills, and brings together a range ofcross-curricular themes, studied within one ofa range of broad vocational contexts. Pupilsmay progress to � A level, � GeneralNational Vocational Qualification orvocational qualifications.

CivilingenjörsexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Professional degree in the field ofengineering, awarded after a 4½-yearprogramme of full-time study, which normallyincludes a degree project. The degreecertificate normally mentions the subjectspassed and the marks and grades obtained.The degree gives access to employment andgeneral eligibility for doctoral studies.

ColocviuCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants: ColocviulLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination held by post-graduateinstitutions, at the end of a 1-year further-training course. It is compulsory for obtainingthe certificate � Certificat de absolvire. Itscontent and the level of requirements dependon each institution.

CQCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificat de Qualification.

CSCTCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificat de synthèseclinique et thérapeutique.

CSYSCountry: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Certificate of Sixth YearStudies.


DAESCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Diplôme d’Aptitude àaccéder à l’Enseignement Supérieur.

DAEUCountry: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Diplôme d’accès auxétudes universitaires.

DEACountry: Belgium (French Community),FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Diplôme d’étudesapprofondies.

DECCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Diplôme d’étudescomplémentaires.

DeeleindexamenCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: DeeleindexamensLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:The partial school-leaving examination, i.e. the� Eindexamen in less than the compulsorynumber of examination subjects in secondary

general education (school types vbo, mavo,havo, vwo). The deeleindexamen is taken inschools under the same conditions and at thesame time as the � Eindexamen. Thedeeleindexamen leads to a � Certificaat foreach subject passed.

DeelstaatsexamenCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: DeelstaatsexamensLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:The partial state examination, i.e. the �Staatsexamen in less than the compulsorynumber of examination subjects for generalsecondary education (school types mavo, havo,vwo). The deelstaatsexamen is taken before a state board of examiners under the sameconditions and at the same time as the �Staatsexamen. It leads to a national certificatefor each subject � Certificaat staatsexamen.

DelkompetansebevisCountry: NorwayGrammatical variants:Delkompetansebeviset,DelkompetansebeviseneLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:A partial-competence certificate which isawarded as documentation that thestudent/apprentice has completed the 3-year(possibly 5-year) training, but has not met theconditions for receiving a diploma or a �Fagbrev, � Svennebrev (craft/journeyman’s)certificate.

D d


DESCountry: Belgium (French Community),FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Diplôme d’étudesspécialisées.

DesignkandidatCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree and title awarded to students who passfinal examinations at the end of 4½ years ofstudies at a university or another highereducation institution. This certificate can alsobe awarded to students holding a �Høgskolekandidat (3 years) who pass finalexaminations at the end of post-graduateuniversity studies lasting 1½ years.

DESSCountry: France, LuxembourgLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Diplôme d’étudessupérieures spécialisées.

DEUGCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Diplôme d’étudesuniversitaires générales.

DEUSTCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Diplôme d’étudesuniversitaires scientifiques et techniques.

DICountry: AustriaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of the title � Diplom-Ingenieur.Titles obtained through study at aFachhochschule are followed by theabbreviation FH.

Didaktor (+ specialisation) (∆∆ιιδδάάκκττωωρρ)Country: GreeceGrammatical variants:∆ιδάκτορα, ∆ιδάκτορες, διδακτορ-*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who already holdthe diploma � Didaktoriko Diploma. It isfollowed by the name of the field concerned.

Didaktoriko Diploma (+ specialisation)(∆∆ιιδδαακκττοορριικκόό ∆∆ίίππλλωωµµαα)

Country: GreeceGrammatical variants:∆ιδακτορικού ∆ιπλώµατος, ∆ιδακτορικά∆ιπλώµατα, διδακτορικ-* δίπλωµ-*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma of completion of post-graduatestudies, lasting a minimum of 3 years,awarded by the university to• students who already hold the diploma �

Metaptychiako Diploma Eidikefsis sti(n) inthe field concerned, after preparation of adoctoral thesis which has been presented inpublic and passed by a seven-memberuniversity committee which assesses theoriginal version of the thesis and judgeswhether it makes a contribution to the field ofknowledge; and

• to students who have not obtained a �Metaptychiako Diploma Eidikefsis sti(n)(Specialist Postgraduate Degree), but only a� Ptychio (degree), on the basis of legallystipulated admission procedures and only forsubject areas for which there are no organisedpost-graduate courses, after these studentshave prepared a doctoral thesis as in theprevious case. It confers the title � Didaktor(Doctor) followed by the name of the subjectof specialisation.

Dip.H.E.Country: United KingdomLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Diploma of HigherEducation.

Dipl. Arch. FHCountry: LiechtensteinLevel of education: Higher


Explanatory note:Abbreviation of Diplom-Architekt FH �

Diplom.

Dipl.-Ing.Country: AustriaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of the title � Diplom-Ingenieur.Titles obtained through study at aFachhochschule are followed by theabbreviation FH.

Dipl. Ing. FHCountry: LiechtensteinLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Diplom-Ingenieur FH �

Diplom.

DiplomCountry: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants: Diplomy, diplom*Level of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Diploma awarded to pupils who have passedthe � Absolutorium final examination at theend of specialised post-secondary technicaleducation lasting 2 or 3 years or ofconservatoire education lasting 6 to 8 years.The specialisation is mentioned. Students mayenter employment. Holders of this diploma arecalled � Diplomovaný specialista v oboru.

DiplomCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Diplome, Diplom*Level of education: Higher/post-secondaryExplanatory note:• Qualification at higher education level

giving access to a profession awarded byuniversities and equivalent institutions ofhigher education in the economics andsocial sciences and in the natural sciencesand engineering in particular, Fach-hochschulen in any subject area andMusikhochschulen or Kunsthochschulen.The standard period of study averages 8 to 9semesters (4 to 4½ years). Studies atFachhochschulen include one or twosemesters of practical experience spent

outside the institution. After passing the �Diplomprüfung, the student receives areport indicating the results of theexamination and the subject of thedissertation and the marks for it. It may alsogive the field of study and main subjects. Atthe same time as the report, the student alsoreceives the Diplom certificate testifying tothe award of the Diplom degree. Thoseawarded by Fachhochschulen have suffixedFachhochschule (FH).

• In tertiary sector other than in highereducation institutions, Berufsakademiencan award a Diplom – with the suffix BA(Berufsakademien) – in certain subjectareas. The education lasts 3 years in theform of a duales System, i.e. a combinationof practical vocational education in a firmand specialised education in an academicinstitution (Studienakademie). Thecertificate gives access to a profession.

Diplom (+ field of study)Country: SlovakiaGrammatical variants: Diplomy, Diplom*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:• Diploma certifying the completion of short-

term university studies (3 or 4 years)awarded to students who have passed the �Štátna skúška examination and defended afinal written dissertation (obhajobazávereènej práce). It gives access toemployment and/or to university studies atmaster’s level. It confers the title � Bakalár.

• Diploma certifying the completion oflong-term university studies (4 to 6 years),awarded to students who have passed the� Štátna skúška examination anddefended a final written dissertation(obhajoba diplomovej práce). It givesaccess to employment and/or post-graduate studies. It confers the title �Magister, � In�inier or � Doktor (in thefield of medicine or veterinary medicine).

• Diploma certifying the completion ofuniversity studies awarded to the studentswho have obtained the title � Magisterand passed the � Rigorózna skúškaexamination and defended a final writtendissertation (obhajoba rigoróznej práce).


It confers the title � Doktor in the fieldstudied. It gives access to the relevantprofession and/or post-graduate studies.

• Diploma certifying the completion of post-graduate studies, awarded following 3 years’full-time to 5 years’ part-time scientific orartistic studies, to students who have defendeda final written dissertation (obhajobadizertaènej práce). It gives access toemployment. It confers the title �Philosophiae doctor.

Diplom (+ name of profession)Country: Belgium (German-speaking Com-munity)Grammatical variants: Diplome, Diplom*Level of education: Higher Explanatory note:Certificate awarded to students who pass thefinal examination at the end of 3-year non-university courses in a nursing school orteacher training college. The final examinationincludes examinations in all subjects coveredand a final written dissertation, that must bepresented to an examination board. Thecertificate notes the specialisation, the title ofthe final dissertation, subjects taken andexamination results. It entitles students toexercise the profession concerned and givesaccess to further study at university.

Diplom (+ professional sector)Country: AustriaGrammatical variants: Diplome, Diplom*Level of education: Upper secondary/higherExplanatory note:• Diploma of vocational competence awarded

to pupils who pass the � Diplomprüfung atthe end of upper secondary level courses inthe areas of paramedical specialities and thehigher levels of health care and nursing. It isawarded along with the � Diplomprü-fungszeugnis. The title Diplom is alwaysfollowed by the designation of the relevantprofessional field, e.g. DiplomierteGesundheits- und Krankenschwester(qualified nurse). It is a qualification givingaccess to the profession.

• Diploma awarded to students who pass the� Diplomprüfung at the end of higher non-university courses of study in social work

or paramedical colleges (minimumduration 3 years). The term is always usedwith an indication of the professionalsector concerned, e.g. Diplomsozial-arbeiter (qualified social worker). Holdersare entitled to work in the relevant sector.

Diplom (+ professional sector)Country: LiechtensteinGrammatical variants: Diplome, Diplom*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Professional qualification awarded to studentswho pass the �Diplomprüfung at the end of themain course of study (Hauptstudium) (2 yearsfollowing the � Vordiplom) in architecture andengineering at the FachhochschuleLiechtenstein. The title conferred by thisqualification is the professional designationfollowed by the abbreviation FH(Fachhochschule), e.g. Diplom-Architekt FH,Diplom-Wirtschaftsinformatiker FH.Abbreviations: Dipl.Arch. FH, Dipl.Ing. FH.

Diploma (+ specialisation) (∆∆ίίππλλωωµµαα)Country: GreeceGrammatical variants:∆ιπλώµατος, ∆ιπλώµατα, διπλωµ-*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma of completion of university studies,varying from 4 to 6 years, awarded by aninstitution of polytechnic higher education(Polytechneio) to candidates who have passedthe examinations in all of the subjects studied.The diploma mentions the specialisation, thetitle, the overall mark and the grade obtained. Itgives access to employment, in the field of thespecialisation, as well as to post-graduatestudies. Synonym of � Ptychio.

Diplomã de absolvireCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Diploma de absolvireLevel of education: Upper secondary/higherExplanatory note:Qualification certifying the completion ofupper secondary vocational studies (ªcoalaprofesionalã and ªcoala de ucenici) or shortuniversity studies (3 years), issued to studentswho have passed the � Examen de absolvire.


In all cases, it mentions the specialisationobtained. It gives access to the profession or(for students of university level) to universitystudies lasting 4 to 5 years in a field similar tothat of the specialisation.

Diplomã de bacalaureatCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Diploma de bacalaureatLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification certifying the completion ofgeneral and specialised upper secondaryeducation, issued by the secondary schools tostudents who have passed the final nationalexamination � Examen de bacalaureat. Itmentions the subjects and the results obtainedin the examination. It is a basic qualificationfor entry to higher education.

Diploma de Conclusão da Parte Curriculardo Mestrado

Country: PortugalGrammatical variants: Diplomas deConclusão da Parte Curricular do MestradoLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded by universities to students whosuccessfully complete the taught curricular partof specialised study for the � Carta Magistraldegree. Assessment covers both the written workpresented and oral and written examinations andthese are marked on a scale from 0 to 20.

Diplomã de doctorCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Diploma de doctorLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification in various domains awarded by theinstitutions accredited by the Ministry ofNational Education, to students who havepassed the examination � Tezã de doctorat atthe end of a doctoral programme lasting 4 years.It mentions the specialisation and confers thetitle � Doctor. It gives access to employment.

Diploma de Ensino BásicoCountry: PortugalGrammatical variants: Diplomas de EnsinoBásico

Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded at the end of the 9 yearsof compulsory education (Ensino Básico)which is divided into three stages, to pupilswho are successful in the final assessment ofthe third stage but with no final examination.It is awarded by the school board. It mentionsthe subjects and the level. It entitles pupils toproceed to upper secondary education.

Diploma de Estudos SecundáriosCountry: PortugalGrammatical variants: Diplomas de Estudos Secundários, Diplomas de Fim de Estudos Secundários Level of education: Upper SecondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded at the end of the 3 years ofupper secondary courses, either general (CG)or technological (CT) and of vocationaleducation courses, to pupils who pass the finalassessment laid down in the curriculum. Thecertificate indicates the subjects taken and thefinal assessment. In the special case of foreignlanguages, the number of years of learning ismentioned. It is the minimum qualificationrequired for entry to higher education.

Diplomã de licenþãCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Diploma de licenþã

Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification certifying the completion ofuniversity studies lasting 4 to 6 years, awardedto students who pass the examination �Examen de licenþã. It mentions thespecialisation obtained and confers the title �Licenþiat. It gives access to employment and/orto specialised post-graduate or doctoral studies.

Diplomã de meritCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Diploma de meritLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification awarded at the end of generaland specialised secondary schools to studentswho have obtained a minimum score of 9.5 (ona scale of 1 to 10) during all of the years of


study and a maximum of 10 in the finalnational examination � Examen debacalaureat. It certifies the student’sexceptional results.

Diploma de Qualificação Profissional deNível II

Country: PortugalGrammatical variants: Diplomas deQualificação Profissional de Nível IILevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who havecompleted a course in initial vocational trainingor a level II vocational qualification course in avocational school or a set of technical trainingsupplementary credits in second chanceeducation, qualifying for a given occupation.There is no examination. The certificatementions the subjects, the level of the course,and its equivalence to the � Diploma de EnsinoBásico. It gives access to employment.

Diploma de Qualificação Profissional deNível III

Country: PortugalGrammatical variants: Diplomas deQualificação Profissional de Nível IIILevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to successful pupils at theend of a 3-year upper secondary technologicalcourse (CT) or of an upper secondaryvocational education course. The certificateissued by vocational schools shows the finalassessment based on the pupil’s subjectaverage grade and the final assessment in the� Prova de Aptidão Profissional. This latterconfers the title of intermediate technician andgives access to employment.

Diplomã de specializare postuniversitarãCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants:Diploma de specializare postuniversitarã

Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Specialist qualification issued at the end of a1-year supplementary post-graduate course tostudents who pass the final examinations heldby each institution. It mentions the

specialisation. It gives access to employmentin the field of the specialisation.

Diplomã de studii academice postuniversitareCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Diploma de studiiacademice postuniversitareLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded at the end of 2 to 3 yearsof academic courses by post-graduateinstitutions (independent or attached toinstitutions of higher education) to candidateswho pass the final examination, of which thecontent and the level of requirements dependon each institution. It mentions thespecialisation and gives access to employment.

Diplomã de studii aprofundate de MasterCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Diploma de studiiaprofundate de MasterLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded to students who passthe examination � Dizertaþie at the end ofadvanced post-graduate studies lasting 1½ to2 years. It mentions the specialisationobtained and confers the title � Master(magister). This qualification gives access tothe relevant profession.

Diplomã de studii aprofundate de specializareCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Diploma de studiiaprofundate de specializareLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded to students who passthe examination � Dizertaþie at the end ofadvanced post-graduate studies lasting 1 year.It mentions the specialisation obtained andthis qualification gives access to the relevantprofession.

Diploma di abilitazione all’insegnamentonelle scuole materne

Country: ItalyGrammatical variants: Diplomi di abilitazioneall’insegnamento nelle scuole materneLevel of education: Upper secondary


Explanatory note:Diploma awarded by teacher-training schools forpre-primary education (scuola magistrale), at theend of studies lasting 3 years, to pupils who passthe final examination � Esame di abilitazioneall’insegnamento nelle scuole materne. Itincludes the name of the specialisation and themark obtained. This diploma gives access to pre-primary school teaching.Note: However, with the implementation ofthe amending law of 1990, these courses willbe phased out, the last courses under thissystem having begun in 1997/98.

Diploma di Accademia di Belle ArtiCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Diplomi di Accademia di Belle ArtiLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma awarded by Academies of Fine Arts(Accademia di Belle Arti), at the end of studieslasting 4 years, to students who pass theexaminations in all of the subjects, plus thefinal test. This test consists of writing andpresenting an assignment on a subjectconcerning art, as well as the creation of anumber of works in the student’s artistic field.The diploma mentions the field and the title(e.g. Diploma di licenza in pittura for studies inpainting). It gives access to employment in thefield concerned and to the national examinationEsame di abilitazione all’insegnamento forcandidates wishing to teach.

Diploma di educazione fisicaCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Diplomi di educazione fisicaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma awarded by higher institutes ofphysical education (Istituto Superiore diEducazione Fisica – ISEF), at the end ofstudies lasting 3 years, to students who passthe examinations in all of the subjects, plusthe final test which consists of writing andpresenting an assignment. The candidate’sachievements throughout the studies are alsotaken into consideration. The diplomamentions the field and the mark obtained. It

entitles students to proceed to post-graduatestudy and to the national examination Esamedi abilitazione all’insegnamento, which givesaccess to posts of physical education teacher.Note: The ISEF are becoming Faculties ofMotor Science as from 1999/2000 and thequalifications awarded will then be the �Diploma Universitario, �Diploma di Laureaor the � Diploma di Specializzazione.

Diploma di LaureaCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Diplomi di LaureaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma awarded by university institutions, atthe end of studies lasting from 4 to 6 years, tostudents who pass the examinations in allsubjects (� Esame di profitto), plus the finalexamination � Esame di laurea. The diplomamentions the field, the title, the subjectsstudied, and the grade only if it is the maximumgrade. Upon special request, the candidate mayreceive a certificate setting out all the marksreceived in each subject. The title conferred is� Dottore/Dottoressa. It gives access toemployment, to post-graduate study (e.g., tostudies leading to the diploma � Dottorato diRicerca) and to the national examinationEsame di abilitazione all’insegnamento forcandidates wishing to teach. Abbreviation: DL.Standard name: Laurea.

Diploma di licenza elementareCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Diplomi di licenzaelementareLevel of education: PrimaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded at the end of primaryeducation, lasting 5 years, to pupils who passthe final examination � Esame di licenzaelementare. This certificate mentions thegeneral assessment of the pupil’s abilities andgives access to secondary education.

Diploma di licenza mediaCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Diplomi di licenzamediaLevel of education: Lower secondary


Explanatory note:Certificate awarded by the school at the end oflower secondary education, lasting 3 years, topupils who pass the final examination �Esame di licenza media. This certificatementions the general assessment of the pupil’sabilities by an examining board, and givesaccess to upper secondary education.

Diploma di maestro d’arteCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Diplomi di maestrod’arteLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Diploma awarded at the end of the first cycle ofsecondary education art studies, lasting 3 years,in an istituto d’arte, to pupils who pass the finalexamination � Esame di licenza di maestrod’arte. The diploma includes the name of thespecialisation and the marks obtained. The titleconferred is � Maestro d’arte. This diplomagives access to employment or to the secondcyle of secondary education art studies in anIstituto d’arte.

Diploma di maturitàCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Diplomi di maturitàLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Diploma valid until 1998 awarded by the schoolat the end of upper secondary education, lastingfrom 4 to 5 years depending on the type ofschool, to pupils who pass the final examination�Esame di maturità. It includes the name of thespecialisation and the general assessment markobtained. Depending on the type of school, thisdiploma is a basic requirement for entry tohigher education (candidates having followed 4years of upper secondary education must stillcomplete an extra year of study), as well as toemployment. Starting from 1998/99, it isreplaced by the � Diploma di superamentodell’esame di Stato conclusivo dei corsi di studiodi istruzione secondaria superiore.

Diploma di qualificaCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Diplomi di qualificaLevel of education: Upper secondary

Explanatory note:Diploma awarded at the end of the first stageof vocational secondary education, lasting 3years, in an istituto professionale, to pupilswho pass the final examination � Esame diqualifica. The diploma includes the name ofthe specialisation and the marks obtained.The title conferred is � Operatore. Thisdiploma gives access to employment, as wellas to second stage of vocational secondaryeducation in an istituto professionale or tospecialisation courses in regional vocationaltraining institutions.

Diploma di SpecializzazioneCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Diplomi di SpecializzazioneLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma awarded by university institutions atthe end of extra specialisation studies at post-graduate level, lasting at least 2 years, tostudents who pass the examinations in allsubjects, as well as the final examination �Esame di specializzazione. It mentions thespecialisation and the grade only if it is thehighest grade. It gives access to employment.Abbreviation: DS.

Diploma di superamento dell’esame di Statoconclusivo dei corsi di studio di istruzionesecondaria superiore

Country: ItalyGrammatical variants: Diplomi disuperamento dell’esame di Stato conclusivodei corsi di studio di istruzione secondariasuperioreLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Diploma which, from 1998/99, replaces the� Diploma di maturità. It is awarded by theschool at the end of upper secondary education,lasting from 4 to 5 years, to pupils who pass thefinal examination � Esame di Stato conclusivodei corsi di studio di istruzione secondariasuperiore. It includes the name of thespecialisation, the length of studies, the generalassessment mark obtained, the sum of themarks of the three written examinations, themark of the oral examination, the formative


evaluation and the school credits. Depending onthe type of school, this diploma is a basicrequirement for entry to higher education(candidates having followed 4 years of uppersecondary education must still complete anextra year of study), as well as to employment.Titles conferred are � Tecnico for the istitutoprofessionale (second stage) and � Perito forthe istituto tecnico.

Diploma Epaggelmatikis Katartissis(∆∆ίίππλλωωµµαα ΕΕππααγγγγεελλµµααττιικκήήςς ΚΚααττάάρρττιισσηηςς)

Country: GreeceGrammatical variants: ∆ιπλώµατος, ∆ιπλώµατα, διπλωµ-*Level of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Diploma of completion of post-secondarystudies, lasting 4 semesters (or 2 for studentswho have followed the programme of uppersecondary education in an Eniaio PolykladikoLykeio or in a Technico-EpaggelmatikoLykeio). It is awarded by a vocational traininginstitution (Instituto EpaggelmatikisKatartisis – IEK) to students who pass theexaminations in all of the subjects studied,obtain the certificate of completion of theirpractical training placement (VevaiossiEpaggelmatikis Katartissis) and pass the finalexamination before an examining board(Kendriki Exetastiki Epitropi PistopoiissisEpaggelmatikis Katartissis) appointed by theMinistry of Education and Religious Affairs.The diploma gives access to employment inthe field of the specialisation.

Diploma havo, mavo, mavo/vbo, mbo, vbo, vwoCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Havo-, mavo-,mavo/vbo-, mbo-, vbo-, vwo-diploma,-diploma’sLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviations of � Diploma hoger algemeenvoortgezet onderwijs, � Diploma middelbaaralgemeen voortgezet onderwijs, � Diplomamiddelbaar algemeen voortgezet onderwijs/voorbereidend beroepsonderwijs, � Diplomamiddelbaar beroepsonderwijs, � Diplomavoorbereidend beroepsonderwijs, � Diplomavoorbereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijs.

Diploma hoger algemeen voortgezetonderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Diploma’s hogeralgemeen voortgezet onderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of upper secondarygeneral education (havo). Diploma granted topupils who pass the � Eindexamen hogeralgemeen voortgezet onderwijs in the final5th year of havo. The model of the diploma isprescribed by the Minister for Education. Thediploma mentions the school type and thesubjects passed. A list of marks mentions foreach examination subject the marks in theinternal school examination � Schoolexamenand the national examination � Centraalexamen; the final marks and the result of theschool-leaving examination � Eindexamen.The diploma grants access to highervocational education (hbo).

Diploma in (+ specialisation)Country: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification usually awarded to students whosuccessfully complete a course of 1, 2 or 3 yearsin non-university or university highereducation, e.g. Diploma in Business Studies.The diploma mentions only the specialisation. Itgives access to employment in certain fields andcan lead to certain forms of further study.

Diploma middelbaar algemeen voortgezetonderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Diploma’smiddelbaar algemeen voortgezet onderwijsLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of lower secondarygeneral education (mavo). Diploma grantedto pupils who pass the � Eindexamenmiddelbaar algemeen voortgezet onderwijs inthe final 4th year of mavo. The model of thediploma is prescribed by the Minister forEducation. The diploma mentions the schooltype, the subjects passed and the level atwhich the programme has been studied. A list


of marks mentions for each examinationsubject the level at which the programme hasbeen studied, the marks in the internal schoolexamination � Schoolexamen and thenational examination � Centraal examen, thefinal marks and the result of the school-leaving examination � Eindexamen. Thediploma grants access to vocational education.

Diploma middelbaar algemeen voortgezetonderwijs/voorbereidend beroepsonderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Diploma’s middelbaaralgemeen voortgezet onderwijs/voorbereidendberoepsonderwijsLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of mavo/vbo (lowersecondary general education/pre-vocationaleducation) for which pupils must taketheoretical subjects plus one vocationalsubject at level C, the second highestavailable. Diploma awarded to pupils whopass the � Eindexamen middelbaar alge-meen voortgezet onderwijs/voorbereidendberoepsonderwijs in the final 4th year ofmavo/vbo. The model of the diploma isprescribed by the Minister for Education. Thediploma mentions the school type, thesubjects passed and the level at which theprogramme has been studied. A list of marksmentions for each examination subject thelevel at which the programme has beenstudied, the marks in the internal schoolexamination � Schoolexamen and thenational examination � Centraal examen, thefinal marks and the result of the school-leaving examination � Eindexamen. The jointqualification gives access to vocationaleducation. To be accepted for full-lengthvocational training-courses, pupils requirethree subjects at level C.

Diploma middelbaar beroepsonderwijsCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Diploma’s middelbaarberoepsonderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondary

Explanatory note:Exit qualification, awarded to pupils who passthe � Examen middelbaar beroepsonderwijs,the leaving examination of a secondaryvocational education course varying in lengthbetween 2 and 4 years (opleiding middelbaarberoepsonderwijs). The model of this diplomais prescribed by the Minister for Education. Itmentions the name of the sector (sector), thedepartment (afdeling), the name and level ofthe course (opleiding) and the examinationsubjects passed. There is a separate list ofmarks for each subject (also mentioning thename of the sector etc.). The diplomas of 3-and 4-year courses grant access to highervocational education (hbo).Note: Gradually to be replaced by thediploma’s under the law on adult andvocational education, introduced in 1996 (Wet educatie en beroepsonderwijs). See �Diploma opleiding beroepsonderwijs.

Diploma of Higher Education (+ field of study)Country: United KingdomLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:A sub-degree level higher educationqualification usually in a specialised orvocational subject, for example, Nursing orIndustrial Minerals Technology. Courses areoffered by universities and other highereducation institutions and normally take 2years’ full-time study, although someinstitutions offer 1-year courses. Someinstitutions use different terms for thequalification, such as University Diploma in(+ specialisation) or College Diploma in(+ specialisation).Courses are of a standard equivalent to thefirst 2 years of a degree programme andnormally allow progression to further studyfor a full first degree. Although access is notautomatic, successful candidates may alsoprogress to courses leading to membershipexaminations of professional associations orto employment in a related field. Individualinstitutions decide assessment procedures andalso what information (such as grades) isprovided on the corresponding certificate; thesubject area would normally be mentioned.Abbreviation: Dip.H.E.


Diploma opleiding beroepsonderwijsCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Diploma’s opleidingberoepsonderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Exit qualification, awarded to pupils who pass the � Examen beroepsonderwijs, theleaving examination of a vocational trainingcourse (opleiding beroepsonderwijs orberoepsopleiding). Vocational trainingcourses are provided at four levels ofqualification, varying in study load, expressedin years of study (2 to 4 years in general). Themodel of this diploma is not prescribed by theMinister for Education. The competentauthority of the institution draws up its ownteaching and examination regulations, andthese are submitted to the Inspectorate forapproval. The competent authority of theinstitution issues the diploma.

Diploma secundair onderwijsCountry: Belgium (Flemish Community)Grammatical variants: Diploma’s secundaironderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Diploma awarded to pupils who pass the finalexaminations (written and oral) held at theend of a 3-year course of upper secondarygeneral, technical, art or vocational education.In vocational education, it is awarded only topupils who have already obtained the �Getuigschrift (tweede graad secundaironderwijs) (certificate of upper secondaryeducation). The examinations are set by theindividual school and cover all the subjectsstudied. In the vocational, technical and artbranches, there is a practical examination(geïntegreerde proef) at the end of the secondand seventh years and this forms part of theoverall assessment. It is a basic requirementfor admission to higher education.

Diploma staatsexamenCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Diploma’s staatsexamenLevel of education: Lower/upper secondary

Explanatory note:Leaving certificate of secondary generaleducation (mavo, havo, vwo), granted to pupilswho pass the � Staatsexamen before a stateboard of examiners. The model of the diplomais prescribed by the Minister for Education. Thediplomas awarded via the staatsexamen are:Diploma staatsexamen middelbaar algemeenvoortgezet onderwijs, Diploma staatsexamenhoger algemeen voortgezet onderwijs,Diploma staatsexamen voorbereidendwetenschappelijk onderwijs.The diplomas of the staatsexamen areequivalent to these granted after the �Eindexamen:� Diploma middelbaar algemeen voortgezetonderwijs, � Diploma hoger algemeenvoortgezet onderwijs, � Diplomavoorbereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijs.

Diploma staatsexamen havo, mavo, vwoCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Diploma’s staatsexamens havo, mavo, vwoLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Diploma staatsexamen hogeralgemeen voortgezet onderwijs, Diplomastaatsexamen middelbaar algemeen voortgezetonderwijs, Voorbereidend wetenschappelijkonderwijs. See � Diploma staatsexamen.

Diploma staatsexamen hoger algemeenvoortgezet onderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Diploma’s staatsexamens hoger algemeenvoortgezet onderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:See � Diploma staatsexamen.

Diploma staatsexamen middelbaar algemeenvoortgezet onderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Diploma’s staatsexamens middelbaar algemeenvoortgezet onderwijsLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:See � Diploma staatsexamen.


Diploma staatsexamen voorbereidendwetenschappelijk onderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Diploma’s staatsexamens voorbereidendwetenschappelijk onderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:See � Diploma staatexamen.

Diploma Superiore per le IndustrieArtistiche

Country: ItalyGrammatical variants: Diplomi Superioriper le Industrie ArtisticheLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma awarded by higher institutes of theart industry (Istituto Superiore per le IndustrieArtistiche – ISIA), at the end of studies lasting4 years, to students who pass the examinationsin all of the subjects, plus the final test whichconsists of writing and presenting anassignment on a practical project. Thecandidate’s achievements throughout thestudies are also taken into consideration. Thediploma mentions the field, the specialisation(e.g. Diploma di disegno industriale, for thediploma in industrial design), as well as themark obtained. It gives access to employmentin the field concerned.

Diploma UniversitarioCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Diplomi UniversitariLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma awarded by university institutions, atthe end of a first period of study lasting 2 to 3years, to students who pass the examinations inall subjects, plus the final examination �Esame di diploma universitario. The diplomamentions the field, the title, the subjectsstudied, and the grade only if it is the maximumgrade. Upon special request, the candidate mayreceive a certificate setting out all the marksreceived. The title conferred is � Diplomatouniversitario (+ field of study). It gives accessto the second cycle of university studiesleading to the diploma � Laurea, as well as toemployment. Abbreviation: DU.

Diploma voorbereidend beroepsonderwijsCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Diploma’s voorbereidend beroepsonderwijsLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of pre-vocationaleducation (vbo). Diploma granted to pupilswho pass the � Eindexamen voorbereidendberoepsonderwijs in the final 4th year of vbo.The model of the diploma is prescribed by theMinister for Education. The diplomamentions the school type, the specialisation,the subjects passed and the level at which theprogramme has been studied. A list of marksmentions for each examination subject thelevel at which the programme has beenstudied, the marks in the internal schoolexamination � Schoolexamen and thenational examination � Centraal examen, thefinal marks and the result of the leavingexamination � Eindexamen. The diplomagrants access to vocational education.

Diploma voorbereidend wetenschappelijkonderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Diploma’s voor-bereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of pre-universityeducation (vwo). Diploma granted to pupilswho pass the � Eindexamen voorbereidendwetenschappelijk onderwijs in the final 6thyear of vwo. The model of the diploma isprescribed by the Minister for Education. Thediploma mentions the school type, thespecialisation (Gymnasium or Atheneum) andthe subjects passed. A list of marks mentionsfor each examination subject the marks in theinternal school examination � Schoolexamenand the national examination � Centraalexamen, the final marks and the result of theleaving examination � Eindexamen. Thediploma grants access to university education(wo) or to higher vocational education (hbo).


Diploma za doktor na naukite(ДДииппллооммаа ззаа ддооккттоорр ннаа ннааууккииттее)

Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants: Diplomi za doktor nanaukiteLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded by a specialised statebody (Висша атестационна комисия –Higher Attestation Commission) to candidateswho have publicly defended a thesis relating toan individual or original scientific researchproject (without duration given). It gives accessto employment. It confers the title �Doktor nanaukite in the field of research pursued.

Diploma za sredno obrazovanie(ДДииппллооммаа ззаа ссрреедднноо ооббррааззооввааннииее)

Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants: Diplomi za srednoobrazovanieLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of upper secondarygeneral education including the orientationand technical sections, awarded to pupils whopass the � Zrelosten izpit final examination. Itindicates the specialisation, the average of themarks in general courses and orientationcourses obtained during the last 3 years ofstudy, and the marks in the final examination.It gives access to employment and is aqualification for entry to higher education.

Diploma za sredno-spetzialno obrazovanie(ДДииппллооммаа ззаа ссрреедднноо--ссппееццииааллннооооббррааззооввааннииее)

Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants: Diplomi za sredno-spetzialno obrazovanieLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who have passedthe � Zrelosten izpit final examination at theend of upper secondary technical educationlasting 4 or 5 years (Technikum). It indicates theaverage of the marks in the general courses andthe vocational training courses obtained duringthe studies and the marks in these examinations.It gives access to employment and is aqualification for entry to higher education.

Diploma za zavurchena stepen na vischetoobrazovanie (ДДииппллооммаа ззаа ззааввъърршшееннаассттееппеенн ннаа ввииссшшееттоо ооббррааззооввааннииее)

Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants: Diplomi zazavurchena stepen na vischeto obrazovanieLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree certifying the completion of highernon-university studies lasting 3 years oruniversity studies lasting 4 to 5 years. Itconfers the title � Specialist po (non-university studies), � Bakalavur (first cycleof university studies) or � Magistur (secondlevel of university studies). It is awarded tostudents who have defended a final thesis orpassed the � Durjaven izpit examination.The certificate indicates the average of themarks obtained in all the examinations takenthroughout the period of study, an assessmentof the thesis, its title and the specialised field.This is always accompanied by a list of themarks. It gives access to the second level ofuniversity studies (for graduates from the firstlevel), to post-graduate studies (for thosegraduating from the second level) and/or toemployment.

Diplomado en (+ specialisation)Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Diplomada en, Diplomados enLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have receivedthe degree � Diplomatura en. It is followedby the name of the specialisation.

Diplomato universitario (+ field of study)Country: ItalyGrammatical variants: Diplomata universitaria, Diplomati universitari,Diplomate universitarieLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title attributed to students who obtain thediploma � Diploma Universitario. It isaccompanied by the name of the fieldconcerned.


Diplomatura en (+ specialisation)Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Diplomaturas enLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded at the end of the first cycle ofuniversity studies (3 years), generally in anEscuela Universitaria, to students who havepassed the examinations required under theprogramme. It confers the title � Diplomadoen. The examinations are organised by eachinstitution and cover each subject taken. Thecertificate mentions the specialisation(technical, scientific or artistic). It gives accessto the second cycle of university studies.

Diplôme d’accès aux études universitairesCountry: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by authorised universities topupils who have passed the individualexaminations set at the end of a year of universitypreparatory education. The examination consistsof written and oral tests to assess generalknowledge and culture, as well as pupils’methods and techniques in terms of therequirements of higher education. It is aimed atpupils who have interrupted their initialeducation for at least 2 years. The certificatementions the pupil’s profile (literary orscientific). It has replaced the � Examen spéciald’entrée à l’université (special universityentrance examination) since 1994 and givesaccess to higher education. Abbreviation: DAEU.

Diplôme d’Aptitude à accéder àl’Enseignement Supérieur

Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by the examining board ofthe French Community to pupils who pass the �Examen d’Aptitude à accéder à l’EnseignementSupérieur taken at the end of upper secondaryeducation. It gives access to university highereducation. Abbreviation: DAES.

Diplôme d’ÉducateurCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Post-secondary

Explanatory note:Qualification awarded by the Ministry ofEducation and Vocational Training, markingthe successful conclusion of 3 years of studiesat the institute of educational and socialstudies (Institut d’Études Éducatives etSociales – IESS). This training is accessibleto pupils who have completed 5 years ofgeneral or technical secondary educationwithout obtaining the � Diplôme de find’études secondaires. At the end of the thirdyear, students sit a final examination,administered by the Ministry. The marks ofthe dissertations, as well as the marksobtained during the entire course, are takeninto account. The qualification mentions thechosen speciality. It gives access tooccupations in the socio-educational field.

Diplôme d’éducateur graduéCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded by the Ministry ofEducation and Vocational Training, marking thesuccessful conclusion of 3 years of studies athigher level at the institute of educational andsocial studies (Institut d’Études Éducatives etSociales – IESS). The training is accessible toholders of a � Diplôme de fin d’étudessecondaires. At the end of the third year,students sit a final examination, administered bythe Ministry. For the final marks, the marks ofdissertations, as well as the marks obtainedduring the entire course, are taken into account.The qualification mentions the chosen speciality.It gives access to occupations in the socio-educational field. Holders of this qualificationbear the title of � Éducateur gradué.

Diplôme d’État d’infirmier(ère)Country: LuxembourgLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification awarded to pupils who pass thefinal examination at the end of uppersecondary technical education (3 years) in thefield of health care. The examination isorganised by the Ministry of Education andcovers both the theoretical and practical


aspects of the profession. It gives access toemployment and to higher education.

Diplôme d’État de docteur (+ specialisation)Country: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma awarded to students who havereceived post-graduate training in a hospitaland at university and defended a thesis at theend of either the short courses in medicine (8½years), dentistry (6 years) and pharmacy (6years) or, for those who have been successful inthe competitive examination for an internship,the long courses of 10 or 11, 8 and 9 yearsrespectively. This diploma can also be obtainedat the end of a non-university post-graduateveterinary training programme (1 to 4 yearsand thesis defence). The diploma gives accessto the relevant profession and confers the title� Docteur (+ specialisation).

Diplôme d’études approfondiesCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded at the end of 1 or 2 years ofpost-graduate education (3 years in certainfields) to students who have already receiveda university or long-type non-universityhigher education qualification and who havepassed the examinations set by the individualinstitution as required under the programmefor each subject. The certificate mentions thefield of study, subjects taken and the finalmark awarded, and gives access to doctoralstudies. Abbreviation: DEA.

Diplôme d’études approfondiesCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma awarded to students who havesubmitted a final written dissertation(mémoire) and passed the examinations set atthe end of one year of post-graduateeducation. This diploma is awarded for 1 yearof research on a specific topic. The writtenand oral final examinations are set by eachinstitution and cover the subjects taken. Thediploma mentions the specialisation. It is a

preparation for and gives access to doctoralstudies. Abbreviation: DEA.

Diplôme d’études complémentairesCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded at the end of 1 year ofuniversity education (after first or second cycleuniversity education or long-type non-universityhigher education) to students who have passedthe examinations set by the individual institutionrequired under the programme in each subject.The programme is aimed at complementing andextending basic education in the same or adifferent subject. The certificate mentions thefield of study, all subjects taken, and the finalmark awarded. Abbreviation: DEC.

Diplôme d’études spécialiséesCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded at the end of 1 or 2 yearsor up to 6 years in certain science or healthcourses of specialised post-graduate (third-cycle) education to students who have passedthe examinations set by the individualinstitution as required under the programmefor each subject. It mentions thespecialisation, subjects taken and final markawarded. Services provided by para-medicalprofessionals holding this qualification areeligible for refunds under the Belgian medicalinsurance scheme. Abbreviation: DES.

Diplôme d’études spécialiséesCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Specialised diploma awarded to students(internes) who have received post-graduatetraining in medicine or pharmacy in a hospitaland have passed the written and oral finalexaminations covering the specialisationstudied. Each institute sets its ownexaminations. The certificate is attached to the�Diplôme d’État de docteur (+ specialisation)(State doctorate), mentions the specialisationand gives access to the profession (as aspecialist). Abbreviation: DES.


Diplôme d’études supérieures en gestionCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification marking the successful conclusionof short-term training in advanced managementstudies lasting 2 years at the CentreUniversitaire, following a final examination withdissertations. In the computer science section, thepreparation of a project is compulsory. The finalmark also takes into consideration the marksobtained during the whole course. Theexamination is administered by the Ministry ofEducation and Vocational Training which alsoawards the qualification corresponding to thestudent’s chosen section (section informatique degestion, section commerce et banque or sectiongestion et contrôle). The qualification mentionsthe division of the student’s section, as well as themarks obtained. It allows immediate entry intoworking life.

Diplôme d’études supérieures spécialiséesCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by the Hautes Écoles atthe end of a programme of long-type highereducation lasting 1 or 2 years (after the secondcycle of long-cycle higher education). Thiscertificate is not yet available.

Diplôme d’études supérieures spécialisées Country: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma awarded to students who already holdthe � Maîtrise (Master’s) or equivalentqualification and who have passed the finalexaminations set at the end of a year of post-graduate education that includes an obligatoryplacement in a firm. The written and oralexaminations are set by each institution andcover all subjects studied. Students must alsosubmit a report on their placement. Thecertificate mentions the specialisation and givesaccess to employment. Abbreviation: DESS.

Diplôme d’études supérieures spécialiséesCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Higher

Explanatory note:Qualification awarded by the CentreUniversitaire at the end of specialised post-graduate studies in the field of contentieuxcommunautaires (1 year). This qualificationwill be offered from 1999/2000 onwards.Abbreviation: DESS.

Diplôme d’études universitaires générales Country: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma awarded to students who havepassed the examinations required under theprogramme of undergraduate universityeducation (2 years). The examinations are setby each institution and cover the subjectsstudied. The certificate mentions the majorsubject area and gives access either toemployment or to continued universityeducation. Abbreviation: DEUG.

Diplôme d’études universitaires scientifiqueset techniques

Country: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to students who havepassed the examinations required under theprogramme of short-cycle university educationlasting 2 years in conjunction with a placementin a firm. Tests are set by each institution andcover the subjects studied. The certificatementions the specialisation and gives accesseither to employment or to continued universityeducation. Abbreviation: DEUST.

Diplôme d’Ingénieur industrielCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification which has replaced (since the1997/98 academic year) the � Diplômed’Ingénieur technicien. The duration of thenew training course has been increased from3 years to 4, at the higher institute oftechnology (Institut Supérieur de Technologie– IST). In order to obtain this qualificationawarded by the Ministry of Education andVocational Training, the student has to sit afinal examination and prepare an independent


project with a thesis. The final mark iscalculated on the basis of the marks fordissertations and of success during the course.There are four specialisations: mechanicalengineering, electronic engineering, civilengineering and applied computer scienceengineering. The qualification allowsimmediate access to employment, as well asthe pursuit of studies in university institutionsabroad. Holders of this qualification bear thetitle of � Ingénieur industriel.

Diplôme d’Ingénieur technicienCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification which has been replaced (sincethe 1997/98 academic year) by the �Diplôme d’Ingénieur industriel.

Diplôme de fin d’études secondairesCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification awarded for passing the �Examen de fin d’études secondaires, held at theend of secondary general education (lasting 7years). The marks obtained by the pupil in thisexamination appear as an annex. Thisqualification mentions the specialisation andgives access to all forms of higher education.

Diplôme de fin d’études secondairestechniques

Country: LuxembourgLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification awarded for passing the �Examen de fin d’études secondairestechniques, at the end of upper secondarytechnical education. It mentions the section aswell as the branches in which the pupils havebeen examined. It gives access to working lifeand to all forms of higher education.

Diplôme de recherche technologiqueCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma awarded to students who havesubmitted a final dissertation (mémoire) at the

end of 1½ or 2 years of post-graduateuniversity education. It certifies technologicalresearch studies aimed at resolving a relevantproblem in the industrial or tertiary sectors inclose conjunction with a firm. The certificatementions the specialisation and gives accessto employment. Abbreviation: DRT.

Diplôme de spécialisation Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by Hautes Écoles at theend of 1 year of education at non-universitylevel (after short-cycle, non-university highereducation).

Diplôme de technicienCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification awarded for passing the �Examen de fin d’études du technicien, at theend of the upper stage of technician training.The qualification indicates the division(section) as well as the branches in which thepupils have been examined. It gives access toemployment at technician level and to thepursuit of higher technical studies in thespecialisation chosen in the technician training.

Diplôme des grandes écolesCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma awarded by the grandes écoles tostudents who have passed all the examinationscalled for in the programme of non-universityhigher education (2 to 5 years) in variousspecialisations. The examinations are set by eachinstitution and vary for each specialisation. Thediploma mentions the specialisation and givesaccess to employment or to post-graduateuniversity education. In certain cases, it confersthe title � Ingénieur.

Diplôme national de technologie spécialisée Country: FranceLevel of education: Higher


Explanatory note:Certificate awarded to holders of the � Brevetde technicien supérieur or � Diplômeuniversitaire de technologie certificate whopass the examinations required under a 1-yearprogramme of non-university higher educationin the field of technology (organised on asandwich basis alongside training in a firm).The examinations are set by each institution andvary for each specialisation. The certificatementions the specialisation and entitles studentsto enter the open competition to recruit teachersfor lycées professionnels (vocational uppersecondary schools). Abbreviation: DNTS.

Diplôme universitaire de technologieCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded at the end of 2 years ofuniversity education in an institut universitairede technologie (IUT) to students who pass thecontinuous assessment throughout theireducation. The certificate mentions thespecialisation, gives access to employment andto further studies, and confers the title �Technicien supérieur. Abbreviation: DUT.

DiplomeksamenCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to students who pass finalexaminations at the end of university musicstudies lasting 2 years following a �Kandidat i musikk or equivalent certificate.Each institution defines the content and levelrequired in the final examination. Theexamination consists of a solo recital or thecomposition of one or more musical works.Students are assessed by two examiners ofwhom one is external to avoid the possibility ofbias. The certificate gives access to employmentas a musician, singer or composer.

Diplomeksamen (Musik)Country: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Diplomeksamenen,Diplomeksamener, DiplomeksamenerneLevel of education: Higher

Explanatory note:Qualification awarded by an academy of musicto students who successfully complete musicstudies lasting 5 years. There is continuousassessment of the performance of the studentthroughout and at the end of the course.Depending on the specialisation, the studentmay also be assessed in theoretical subjects.The degree gives access to a programme ofspecialisation of 2 to 4 years’ duration.

DiplomgradCountry: Germany Grammatical variants: Diplomgrade, Diplomgrad*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Academic degree, awarded on the basis of ahigher education examination, that specifies thesubject area, for example Diplom-Ingenieur,Diplom-Psychologe. It can be awarded by auniversity or equivalent higher educationinstitution, Fachhochschule (with the suffixFH) or by some Berufsakademien (professionalacademies) (with the suffix BA). A Diplomgradcan also be awarded at the end of further study,supplementary and follow-up courses(postgraduale Studiengänge) in which furtheracademic or vocational qualifications can betaken and the knowledge obtained from study orwork given greater academic depth.

Diplom-Ingenieur Country: AustriaGrammatical variants: Diplom-Ingenieurin(nen), Diplom-IngenieureLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Academic title conferred on students whohave been awarded the � Diplom-prüfungszeugnis at the end of technical highereducation. Abbreviations: Dipl.-Ing. and DI.Titles obtained through study at aFachhochschule are followed by theabbreviation FH.

DiplomingeniørCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Diplomingeniøren,-ingeniører, -ingeniørerneLevel of education: Higher


Explanatory note:Title awarded to students who successfullycomplete the � Bachelorgrad in engineering, atthe end of studies lasting 3½ years in a universityor an institution of non-university highereducation (Teknika or Ingeniørhøjskoler).Synonym: Bachelor of Science (specialisation:engineering). See also � Bachelorgrad.

Diplomovaný specialista v oboruCountry: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants: Diplomovaní specialisté v oboru, Diplom* specialist* v oboruLevel of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe � Diplom degree. Abbreviation: DiS.

DiplomprüfungCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Diplomprüfungen,Diplomprüfung*Level of education: Upper secondary/post-secondary/higherExplanatory note:• Final examination at the end of 2½ years’

training for paramedical specialities and 3years for the higher levels of health care andnursing. Pupils who pass the examinationreceive the � Diplomprüfungszeugnis andthe diploma of vocational competence �Diplom (+ professional sector).

• Final examination at the end of 2 years’post-secondary commercial, social andtechnical-vocational courses at a Kolleg. Theexamination is organised internally by theinstitution and takes place before a board.Pupils who pass the examination receive the� Diplomprüfungszeugnis.

• Final examination at universities andFachhochschulen (minimum duration 4years) and also at social work orparamedical colleges and academies formidwifery (non-university, minimumduration 3 years). The examination isorganised internally by the institution andtakes place before a board. Content isrelated to the individual course of study. Itincludes a written dissertation orexamination and oral examinations.

Successful students receive the � Diplom-prüfungszeugnis, while those in thecolleges also receive the diploma ofvocational competence, the � Diplom (+professional sector).

DiplomprüfungCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Diplomprüfungen,Diplomprüfung*Level of education: Higher/post-secondaryExplanatory note:Final examination for the award of a �Diplom by a university or equivalent highereducation institution or Fachhochschule,Kunsthochschule or Musikhochschule. Intertiary education other than in a highereducation institution, some Berufsakademienalso set this final examination. Theexamination consists of a dissertation(Diplomarbeit) and oral and writtenexaminations in the relevant subjects(Fachprüfungen) or artistic and creativeexaminations at a Kunst- or Musikhoch-schule.

DiplomprüfungCountry: LiechtensteinGrammatical variants: Diplomprüfungen,Diplomprüfung*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Final examination of the FachhochschuleLiechtenstein taken at the end of the maincourse of study (Hauptstudium) inarchitecture or engineering. Obligatory forobtaining the � Diplom and the professionaldesignation. The examination requirementsand content are set internally by theinstitution. The examination includes writtenand/or oral examinations and the preparationof a dissertation.

DiplomprüfungszeugnisCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants:Diplomprüfungszeugnisse,Diplomprüfungszeugnis*Level of education: Upper secondary/post-secondary/higher


Explanatory note:• Certificate awarded for passing the �

Diplomprüfung at the end of uppersecondary level courses in the areas ofparamedical specialities and the higherlevels of health care and nursing, alongwith the diploma of professionalcompetence � Diplom (+ professionalsector). The individual examinations arelisted on the Diplomprüfungszeugnis.

• Certificate awarded for passing the �Diplomprüfung at the end of post-secondary level courses. It indicates thespecialisation and entitles holders toexercise a profession in the relevantvocational branch.

• Final degree certificate testifying to successin the � Diplomprüfung at universities andFachhochschulen. It indicates the field andbranch of study or Fachhochschule courseof study. Holders are entitled to exercise therelevant profession or to commence studyfor a doctorate. Evidence of passing the �Diplomprüfung leads to the conferring ofthe academic title � Magister (+specialisation) or � Diplom-Ingenieur.

DiS.Country: Czech RepublicLevel of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Diplomovaný specialista voboru.

Dizertaþie

Country: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Dizertaþia

Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination of completion of advanced post-graduate studies lasting 1 year or 1½ to 2 years,which is compulsory for obtaining thequalification �Diplomã de studii aprofundate

de specializare or � Diplomã de studii

aprofundate de Master conferring the title �Master (magister). It is organised by theeducational institution. It consists of the defenceof a written work, presented to a board ofexaminers comprised of professors.

DLCountry: ItalyLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Diploma di Laurea.

DNTSCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Diplôme national detechnologie spécialisée.

Docteur (+ specialisation)Country: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title conferred on students who haveobtained the � Diplôme d’État de docteur(+ specialisation) qualification. The title isalways followed by the name of the field inwhich it was awarded, for example: docteuren chirurgie dentaire, docteur en médecine(general medicine or medical speciality),docteur en pharmacie.

Docteur en (+ specialisation)Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have receivedthe � Doctorat en (+ specialisation)certificate. It is always followed by the nameof the specialisation, for example, docteur enmédecine, docteur en médecine vétérinaire,docteur en sciences de l’éducation.

Doctor Country: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title accorded to holders of a � Doctorate.The title is combined with the specialisationin which the degree was taken, e.g. Doctor ofPhilosophy (abbreviation: Ph.D.).

DoctorCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Doctoren, DoctorsLevel of education: Higher


Explanatory note:Academic title obtained after the successfulcompletion of a � Doctoraat. The title isconferred only by universities. Theabbreviated title � Dr is placed before thename.

DoctorCountry: RomaniaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Academic title in different domains conferredon candidates who pass the examination �Tezã de doctorat and obtain the qualification� Diplomã de doctor at the end of thedoctoral programmes organised by universityinstitutions or by research institutions.Abbreviation: Dr.

Doctor (+ field of study)Country: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree and title awarded to students whosubmit and defend a thesis at the end of aspecific course of doctoral studies lasting 3years. The certificate mentions the subject ofthe thesis and its assessment. The term doctoris followed by the name of the field in whichit was awarded, for example doctorscientiarum in the fields of mathematics andnatural sciences. The certificate and titledoctor philosophiae are more general and canbe obtained in all fields without a specificcourse of studies. Students must do research atan advanced level for several years leading tothe production of a thesis. Abbreviation: Dr.followed by the name of the field of study alsoin the abbreviated form.

Doctor (+ specialisation)Country: Belgium (Flemish Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title conferred on students who have beenawarded the degree of Doctor after the publicdefence of a thesis based on original researchthat takes at least 2 years. It is followed by thename of the field of study. The degree givesentry to the profession of university teacher.

Doctor en (+ specialisation)Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Doctora en, Doctores en Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have receivedthe � Doctorado en degree. It is alwaysfollowed by the name of the specialisation.

Doctor of (+ specialisation)Country: United KingdomLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title used by the holder of a � Doctorate.Registered medical practitioners holding afirst degree in medicine also use the courtesytitle of doctor.

DoctoraatCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: DoctoratenLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Doctoral degree for researchers. Thedoctorate can be obtained only at universitiesand is the highest university degree. It isaccessible to graduate of university or non-university higher education. Graduates haveto carry out independent research andcomplete a thesis on the subject of theirresearch under the supervision of a fullprofessor, who has to give approval topublication of the thesis, which has to bedefended in public. Design engineersconclude the doctorate with the production ofa technological design. Most doctoralcandidates achieve their degree through anofficial research training post, either as atrainee research assistant (assistent inopleiding – AIO) in a university or as atrainee researcher (onderzoeker in opleiding –OIO) in a research school (onderzoekschool).During a 4-year appointment, graduates areexpected to work on research and to producea thesis or a technological design (for designengineers). Graduates may also complete adoctorate on their own, under the supervisionof a full professor. After the successfulcompletion of the doctorate, the title �Doctor is awarded. See also � Promotie.


DoctoraatsgetuigschriftCountry: Belgium (Flemish Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to students whosuccessfully complete a course of doctoraleducation covering a number of courses,seminars and colloquia related to the chosenspecialisation. It is in some universities aprecondition to the public defence of thethesis.

Doctorado en (+ specialisation)Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Doctorada en, Doctorados enLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Doctoral degree awarded to students whoalready hold the � Licenciado en, � Ingenieroor � Arquitecto degree and have defended athesis at the end of post-graduate studies. Itconfers the title � Doctor en (+ specialisation)and gives access to the academic profession.

DoctorandusCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Doctorandussen,DoctorandiLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded by a university on the basis ofthe � Getuigschrift van het afsluitendexamen, to students who pass the finalexamination for a first degree. Abbreviation:Drs placed before the name. However, thetitles for university graduates in the fields ofengineering and agriculture are � Ingenieurand in the field of law � Meester. Ininternational contexts, all university graduatesmay adopt the title � Master.

Doctorat en (+ field of study)Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:• Degree awarded to students who have

submitted and publicly defended a researchreport (original dissertation) and one ormore supplementary theses after 3 to 5years of post-graduate education. Thecertificate mentions the specialisation,

subject of the research and supplementarythesis(es) and final mark awarded. It givesaccess to employment and/or furtherstudies preparatory to the � Agrégation del’enseignement supérieur.

• Degree also awarded at the end of second-cycle university education in medicine(4 years) or veterinary medicine (3 years)to students who have already beenawarded the � Candidature enqualification and have passed theexaminations set by the individualinstitution required under the programmein each subject. It mentions the subjectstaken and final mark awarded. Thecertificate gives access to third cycle orpost-graduate education and/or theprofession, following enrolment in theMedical or Veterinary Register.

The certificate confers the title � Docteuren followed by the name of thespecialisation.

Doctorat en (+ specialisation)Country: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded to students who already holdthe �Diplôme d’études approfondies certificateand who have defended a thesis at the end of 3or 4 years of post-graduate university education.It entitles students to enter the competition forthe recruitment of lecturers or to prepare for the� Habilitation à diriger des recherchescertificate (i.e. qualification required to beallowed to supervise research). It confers the title� Docteur (+ specialisation).

DoctorateCountry: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Higher academic degree awarded 2 or 3 yearsafter the �Master’s degree or, exceptionally, 3or 4 years after the � Bachelor’s degree tostudents who have undertaken original researchand completed and publicly defended a thesis.A doctorate can be obtained in most fields ofstudy, the most common being the Doctor ofPhilosophy� Doctor.


DoctorateCountry: United KingdomLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Higher academic degree normally awarded tostudents after 3 years of full-time individualresearch, on the basis of a thesis, which mustbe based on original research and thought,clearly presented and ’add to mankind’s poolof knowledge’. The thesis is usually examinedby a panel of examiners and the studentsubsequently undergoes an oral examinationconducted by the examiners. The titleawarded is normally � Doctor of(Philosophy) (abbreviation: Ph.D. or D.Phil.)regardless of the field of study of the research,except for a few specialised fields, e.g. thedegree of Doctor of Musical Arts (A.Mus.D.)and the Doctor of Medicine (MD).

DoktorCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: Doktorn, Doktorer,DoktorernaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Tohtori.

DoktorCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: DoktorsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who pass the �Doktorspróf examination. The title � Dr.phil.is awarded to arts students followingcompletion of a doctoral programme whilestudents who carry out independent researchreceive this title followed by the Latin namerelative to their specialisation.

DoktorCountry: PolandGrammatical variants: Doktorzy, Doktor*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded by the faculty council or theacademic council of the higher educationinstitution to students who have obtained the �Dyplom doktora qualification. Abbreviation: Dr.

Doktor Country: SwedenGrammatical variants: -n, -er, -ernaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title describing the holder of a �Doktorsexamen, with a prefix referring to thefaculty, e.g. filosofie doktor, or the area ofacademic study mentioned, e.g. doktor imedicinsk vetenskap.

Doktor (+ field of study)Country: AustriaGrammatical variants: Doktorin(nen), DoktorenLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Academic title conferred on students whohave completed 2 years’ study, prepared athesis and had it accepted, passed the �Rigorosum and been awarded the �Rigorosenzeugnis. Depending on theregulations, successful students then haveaccess to all academic/scientific posts.Abbreviation: Dr. (+ field of study).

Doktor (+ field of study) ((ДДооккттоорр))Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants: DoktoriLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded by a specialised state body(Висша атестационна комисия – HigherAttestation Commission) to students who haveobtained the � Diploma za zavurchena stepenna vischeto obrazovanie, � Magistur and whohave publicly defended a doctoral thesis after atleast 3-years’ doctoral studies organised by theuniversities, specialised higher educationinstitutions or scientific bodies. It gives access toemployment as a scientist.

Doktor (+ field of study)Country: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants: Doktoøi, Doktor*

Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:• Title awarded to students of medicine or

veterinary medicine who have obtained the� Vysokoškolský diplom degree and the �Vysvìdèení o státní rigorózní zkou�ce

certificate. Abbreviation: MUDr. in the


field of medicine, and MVDr. in the field ofveterinary medicine.

• Title awarded to holders of the � Magistrdegree, who have obtained the �Vysokoškolský diplom degree and the �Vysvìdèení o státní rigorózní zkou�ce

certificate. It can be obtained (without aspecific programme of studies) in the fieldof law (abbreviation: JUDr.), human andsocial sciences and educational science(abbreviation: Ph.Dr.), natural sciences(abbreviation: RNDr.), pharmacy (abbre-viation: PharmDr.) and in the field oftheology (abbreviation: ThDr.).

• Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe � Vysokoškolský diplom degree and the� Vysvìdèení o státní doktorské zkou�ce

certificate. Abbreviation: Ph.D. and Th.D. inthe field of theology.

Doktor (+ field of study)Country: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Doktoren, doktorer,doktorerneLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who successfullycomplete the � Doktorgrad. It is followed bythe Latin name of the field concerned, usuallyin its abbreviated form (for example, dr. phil.in human sciences, dr.scient, in naturalsciences). Abbreviation: Dr.

Doktor (+ field of study)Country: GermanyGrammatical variants: DoktorenLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who successfullycomplete the � Doktorgrad. It is followed bythe Latin name of the field concerned, usuallyin its abbreviated form (for example, Dr.phil.in human sciences). Abbreviation: Dr.

Doktor (+ field of study)Country: SlovakiaGrammatical variants: Doktori, Doktor*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have passed the� Štátna skúška examination and obtained the

� Diplom in the field of medicine (doktormedicíny; abbreviation: MUDr.) and veterinarymedicine (doktor veterinárskej medicíny;abbreviation: MVDr.). It is also awarded tostudents who have passed the � Rigoróznaskúška examination and obtained the �Diplom in the field of natural sciences(abbreviation: RNDr.), pharmacy (abbre-viation: PharmDr.), human sciences and arts(abbreviation: PhDr.), law (abbreviation:JUDr.), educational sciences (abbreviation:PaedDr.), theology (abbreviation: ThDr.).

Doktor der PhilosophieCountry: LiechtensteinLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Academic title awarded on successfulcompletion of doctoral studies at theInternationalen Akademien für Philosophie(IAP). Students must submit and publicly defenda doctoral thesis and take an oral examination inPhilosophy. Abbreviation: Dr.phil.

Doktor habilitowanyCountry: PolandGrammatical variants:Doktorzy habilitowani, Doktor* habilitowan*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title certifying the highest academic level,awarded to students who have obtained the� Dyplom doktora habilitowanegoqualification. It is awarded by the facultycouncil of the institution of higher education,by the institutions of the Polish Academy ofSciences or by the scientific board of otherinstitutions authorised and approved by theCentral Commission for Academic Title andAcademic Degrees. Abbreviation: Dr hab.

Doktor na naukite (ДДооккттоорр ннаа ннааууккииттее)Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants: Doktori na naukite Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Academic title awarded by a specialised statebody (Висша атестационна комисия –Higher Attestation Commission) tocandidates who obtain the � Diploma zadoktor na naukite qualification.


DoktorátusCountry: HungaryLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Synonym of the title � Doktori cím and of the� Doktori fokozat degree.

DoktorgradCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: -graden, -grader,-graderneLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded to post-graduate studentswho have successfully defended a thesis inpublic after a minimum of 5 to 8 years ofindividual original research. It mentions thename of the field concerned. It entitles theholder to the title � Doktor and may also giveaccess to posts as full professor in highereducation in the field of the specialisation. Inmedicine, holders of this qualification haveaccess to the top posts in hospitals.

DoktorgradCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Doktorgrade, Doktorgrad*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Academic degree awarded by a university orequivalent higher education institution on thebasis of a � Promotion following a firstprofessional qualification. A Doktorgradentitles the recipient to use the title � Doktor.The Latin title indicates the area in which thedoctorate was taken and is placed in theabbreviated form before the individual’s name(e.g. Doctor philosophiae – Dr.phil.).

Doktori címCountry: HungaryGrammatical variants:Doktori címet, Doktori címek, Doktori címeketLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe � Doktori fokozat degree. This title is alsoawarded to students who have obtained the� Egyetemi oklevél degree at the end ofuniversity studies in the faculties of medicine,

veterinary medicine, dentistry and law.Abbreviation: Dr. (+ field of study).Synonym: Doktorátus.

Doktori fokozatCountry: HungaryGrammatical variants: Doktori fokozatot,Doktori fokozatok, Doktori fokozatokat Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded at the end of the doctoralprogramme to students who have passed thefinal � Doktori szigorlat examination. Itmentions the specialised subjects. This diplomagives access to employment. It confers the title� Doktori cím. Synonym: Doktorátus.

Doktori szigorlatCountry: HungaryGrammatical variants: Doktori szigorlatot,Doktori szigorlatok, Doktori szigorlatokat Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination on completion of a doctoralprogramme, which is compulsory for obtainingthe � Doktori fokozat degree conferring thetitle � Doktori cím. It consists of the publicdefence, before an examining board, of a thesis,the content of which must be approved inadvance by the council of doctors.

Doktors examenCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Tohtorintutkinto.

DoktorsexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Doctoral degree, awarded after 4 years of full-time doctoral studies, which can be pursued inall faculties. Students write a dissertation anddefend it orally in the presence of externalexaminers. The name of the degree refers eitherto the faculty, e.g. filosofie doktorsexamen(Doctorate of Philosophy), or to the area ofacademic study in which it is obtained, e.g.


ekonomie doktorsexamen. The degree certificatenormally mentions the specialisation, the title ofthe dissertation and the date of the oral defence.The doktorsexamen qualifies for teaching atuniversity. The corresponding title is � Doktor,mentioning the faculty or area of academic study,e.g. filosofie doktor.

DoktorsgrádaCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: DoktorsgráduLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded to students who passthe � Doktorspróf examination. It mentionsthe subjects and the results obtained in theexamination. It entitles the holder to occupy ateaching or research position in the university.It confers the title � Doktor.

DoktorsprófCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: -prófi, -prófsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination held following a 3- or 4-yeardoctoral programme to students who alreadyhold the �Magister degree. This examination isalso taken by students who have carried outindependent research following the �

Meistaragráda or �Kandidatsgráda. It leads tothe � Doktorsgráda.

Dott./Dott.ssaCountry: ItalyLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Dottore in.

Dottorato di RicercaCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Dottorati di RicercaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma awarded by university institutions, atthe end of post-graduate study and researchlasting 3 years, to students who have writtenand defended a thesis or a graphic projectbefore a national examining board. Thediploma mentions the field, the subject of thethesis and the title. The title conferred is �Dottore di ricerca. Abbreviation: DR.

Dottore di RicercaCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Dottoressa di ricerca,Dottori di ricerca, Dottoresse di ricercaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title attributed to students who obtain thediploma � Dottorato di Ricerca.

Dottore in (+ field of study)Country: ItalyGrammatical variants: Dottoressa, Dottori,DottoresseLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title attributed to candidates having obtainedthe diploma � Diploma di Laurea.Abbreviation: Dott./Dott.ssa.

DoutorCountry: PortugalGrammatical variants: DoutoresLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Highest academic title, conferred on studentswho pass the � Prova de doutoramentoexamination.

DRCountry: ItalyLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Dottorato di Ricerca.

DrCountry: The NetherlandsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doctor, written before thename.

DrCountry: PolandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor.


Dr hab.Country: PolandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor habilitowany.

Dr. (+ field of study)Country: GermanyLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of �Doktor followed by the fieldof study in the abbreviated form, e.g. Dr.phil.

Dr.Country: HungaryLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktori cím.

Dr.Country: RomaniaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doctor.

Dr. (+ field of study)Country: AustriaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor (+ field of study),e.g. Dr.phil.

Dr. (+ field of study)Country: DenmarkLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor followed by thefield of study.

Dr. (+ field of study)Country: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doctor (followed by thename of the field of study in the abbreviatedform, e.g. dr. agric. in agriculture; dr. psychol.in psychology).

Dr. (ДД--рр)Country: BulgariaLevel of education: Higher

Explanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor.

Dr.phil.Country: IcelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Doktor philosophiae in artssubjects. See � Doktor.

Dr.phil.Country: LiechtensteinLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor der Philosophie.

DrsCountry: The NetherlandsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doctorandus, writtenbefore the name.

DRTCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Diplôme de recherchetechnologique.

DSCountry: ItalyLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Diploma di Specializ-zazione.

DUCountry: ItalyLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Diploma Universitario.

Durjaven izpit (ДДъърржжааввеенн ииззппиитт)Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants: Durjavni izpitiLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Final state examination held in university andnon-university institutions at the end of thefinal year of study. It is compulsory for


obtaining the � Diploma za zavurchenastepen na vischeto obrazovanie qualification.The content and examination requirementsdepend on the individual faculty. It includeswritten and/or oral examinations.

DUTCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Diplôme universitaire detechnologie.

Dyplom doktoraCountry: PolandGrammatical variants: Dyplomy doktora,Dyplom* doktoraLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification certifying the completion ofpost-graduate studies, awarded to studentswho have completed a minimum of 3 years ofthe doctoral programme and passed the �Egzamin doktorski examination. It confers thetitle � Doktor. It mentions the specialisation.It allows the holder to occupy posts in highereducation or in research institutions.

Dyplom doktora habilitowanegoCountry: PolandGrammatical variants: Dyplomy, Dyplom*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded to students who havepassed the � Kolokwium habilitacyjneexamination. It confers the title � Doktorhabilitowany. It mentions the specialisation. It isa qualification for the most important positions athigher education level or in research institutions.

Dyplom ukoñczenia studiów wy¿szychCountry: PolandGrammatical variants: Dyplomy, Dyplom*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification certifying the completion ofuniversity education, awarded by thescientific council of the faculty concernedto students who have passed the �Egzamin magisterski examinationfollowing 5 to 6 years of study, or the �Egzamin dyplomowy examination,following 3 to 4 years of study. It confersthe title � Magister (following studieslasting 5 to 6 years) and � Licencjat or �In¿ynier, following 3 to 4 years of study. Itmentions the field of study and thespecialisation, the final marks and the titleawarded. It gives the right to practice therelevant profession or to continueeducation at post-graduate level.

Dyplom ukoñczenia szko³y policealnejCountry: PolandGrammatical variants: Dyplomy, DyplomLevel of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of post-secondaryeducation (2 or 2½ years or 1 year),awarded on the basis of school results in thefinal year of studies and the marks in the� Egzamin z przygotowania zawodowegoexamination (after 2 or 2½ years of study,conferring the title � Technik) or �Egzamin z nauki zawodu (after 1 year ofstudy, conferring the title of � Robotnikwykwalifikowany). It gives access to thetrade or occupation.


Éducateur graduéCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded at the end of 3 years of trainingleading to the� Diplôme d’éducateur gradué.

Egyetemi oklevélCountry: HungaryGrammatical variants: Egyetemi oklevelet,Egyetemi oklevelek, Egyetemi okleveleket Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma awarded at the end of universitystudies, lasting from 4 to 6 years or more, tostudents who have passed the final �Záróvizsga examination. It mentions thespecialisation and the marks obtained in theexamination. It gives access to employmentand/or to a doctorate. It confers the title �Okleveles (+ field of study).

Egzamin dojrza³o�ciCountry: PolandGrammatical variants:Egzaminy dojrza³o�ci, Egzamin* dojrza³o�ciLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:National examination, held at the end of uppersecondary general education (4 years) andupper secondary technical and vocationaleducation (5 or 4 years). It is compulsory onlyto obtain the � �wiadectwo dojrza³o�cicertificate, required in order to gain access tohigher education. It includes dissertations onPolish language and literature, and one in an

optional subject (depending on the pupil’schoice), set by the regional educationauthorities. Oral examinations (determinedby each institution) cover Polish languageand literature, one foreign language and oneoptional subject. Synonym: Matura.

Egzamin doktorskiCountry: PolandGrammatical variants:Egzaminy doktorskie, Egzamin* doktorski*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:National examination on completion of post-graduate studies lasting a minimum of 3 years,which is compulsory for obtaining the �Dyplom doktora qualification, conferring thetitle � Doktor. It consists of the defence of athesis and includes two oral examinationsrelating to the subject of the thesis and one on asubject chosen from philosophy or economics.

Egzamin dyplomowyCountry: PolandGrammatical variants:Egzaminy dyplomowe, Egzamin* dyplomow*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:National examination on completion of short-term university studies (3 or 4 years), which iscompulsory for obtaining the � Dyplomukoñczenia studiów wy¿szych qualification,conferring the title � Licencjat or � In¿ynierdepending on the field of study. These aredefined and assessed by each faculty and varydepending on the field of study.

E e


Egzamin magisterskiCountry: PolandGrammatical variants:Egzaminy magisterskie, Egzamin* magisterski*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:National examination on completion of long-term university studies (5 to 6 years). It iscompulsory for obtaining the � Dyplomukoñczenia studiów wy¿szych qualificationwhich confers the title � Magister or �Lekarz (+ specialisation), depending on thefield and duration of studies. Thisexamination consists of the defence of adissertation (praca magisterska) or, in thecase of technical studies, of a practicalapplication project. It also includes oralexaminations, which vary depending on thefaculty and the field of study.

Egzamin wstêpny do szko³y �redniejCountry: PolandGrammatical variants: Egzaminy wstêpne do szkó³ �rednich,

Egzamin* wstêpn* do szkó³ �rednichLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:National compulsory entrance examination toall upper secondary schools (except basicvocational schools – szko³y zasadnicze) heldin order to select pupils on a basis ofattainment (limited number of places). It isaimed at pupils who have obtained thecertificate of completion of compulsoryeducation � �wiadectwo ukoñczenia szko³ypodstawowej. The examination includesdissertations in Polish and mathematics(certain schools may organise an oralexamination in a subject related to the pupil’schosen specialisation). The content is set bythe regional education authorities.

Egzamin z nauki zawoduCountry: PolandGrammatical variants: Egzaminy z naukizawodu, Egzamin* z nauki zawoduLevel of education: Upper secondary/post-secondary Explanatory note:Compulsory vocational examination, held at theend of upper secondary vocational education

lasting 3 or 4 years (or post-secondaryeducation, lasting 1 year). Its content and thelevel of requirements are defined by each school.Success in the theoretical and practicalexaminations relating to the occupation givesentitlement to the � �wiadectwo ukoñczeniaszko³y zasadniczej (in basic vocational traininglasting 3 years) and � �wiadectwo ukoñczenialiceum zawodowego certificates (in vocationalschools lasting 4 years) and � Dyplomukoñczenia szko³y policealnej (in post-secondary school lasting 1 year).

Egzamin z przygotowania zawodowegoCountry: PolandGrammatical variants:Egzaminy z przygotowania zawodowego,Egzamin* z przygotowania zawodowegoLevel of education: Upper secondary/post-secondaryExplanatory note:Compulsory vocational proficiencyexamination, held by upper secondary technicalschools (or post-secondary school of 2 or 2½years) at the end of the final year of studies, toverify the practical and complete knowledge ofthe techniques relating to a specialisation. Itscontent and the level of requirements are definedby each school. Success in this examinationgives entitlement to the certificate of completionof secondary technical education � �wiadectwoukoñczenia technikum zawodowego or of post-secondary education � Dyplom ukoñczeniaszko³y policealnej.

EindexamenCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: EindexamensLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:School-leaving examination of vbo, mavo,havo, vwo. The eindexamen comprises twoparts, an internal school examination �Schoolexamen and a national examination �Centraal examen. Successfully candidates areawarded one of the diplomas: � Diploma voorbereidend beroepsonderwijs;� Diploma middelbaar algemeen voortgezetonderwijs; � Diploma middelbaar algemeenvoortgezet onderwijs/voorbereidend beroeps-onderwijs; � Diploma hoger algemeen


voortgezet onderwijs; � Diploma voorbe-reidend wetenschappelijk onderwijs. See also� Staatsexamen.Note: New-style examinations are scheduled forhavo in the 2000/2001 school year and for vwo inthe 2001/2002 school year (or one year earlier forthe experimental schools). In the new centraalexamen for havo and vwo, Dutch and Englishwill be compulsory and one classical languagefor vwo (gymnasium), and all the subjects of thespecialised component of the subjectcombination, opted for by the pupil. From theschool year 1999/2000 (or one year earlier for theexperimental schools), the pupils in the fourthyear of havo and vwo opt for one of four groupsof subjects prescribed by the Minister forEducation. The number of compulsoryexamination subjects from the specialisedcomponent of the group varies between 3 and 6.(Not all subjects have the same weight).For vbo and mavo, new-style examinations –as a consequence of an educational reform tobe implemented in the school year 1999/2000– will be administered in the 2002/2003school year. From August 1999, the new vmbo(voorbereidend middelbaar beroepsonder-wijs) (pre-vocational secondary education)will replace both vbo and mavo.

Eindexamen havo, mavo, mavo/vbo, vbo, vwoCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Havo-, mavo-, mavo/vbo-, vbo-, vwo-eindexamenLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Eindexamen hogeralgemeen voortgezet onderwijs, � Eind-examen middelbaar algemeen voortgezetonderwijs, � Eindexamen middelbaaralgemeen voortgezet onderwijs/voorbe-reidend beroepsonderwijs, � Eindexamenvoorbereidend beroepsonderwijs, � Eind-examen voorbereidend wetenschappelijkonderwijs. See � Eindexamen.

Eindexamen hoger algemeen voortgezetonderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Eindexamens hogeralgemeen voortgezet onderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondary

Explanatory note:School-leaving examination in the final 5thyear of upper secondary general education(havo). It is divided into an internal schoolexamination � Schoolexamen and a nationalexamination � Centraal examen. The havo-examination covers six subjects. It iscompulsory to sit Dutch language andliterature and one modern language.Successful candidates are awarded thediploma � Diploma hoger algemeenvoortgezet onderwijs.Note: New-style examinations are scheduledfor the 2000/2001 school year (or one yearearlier for experimental schools). See �Eindexamen.

Eindexamen middelbaar algemeenvoortgezet onderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Eindexamensmiddelbaar algemeen voortgezet onderwijsLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:School-leaving examination in the final 4thyear of lower secondary general education(mavo). It is divided into an internal schoolexamination � Schoolexamen and a nationalexamination � Centraal examen. The mavo-examination covers six subjects. It iscompulsory to sit Dutch plus one modernlanguage. Successful candidates are awardedthe diploma � Diploma middelbaaralgemeen voortgezet onderwijs.Note: For vbo and mavo, new-styleexaminations – as a consequence of aneducational reform to be implemented in the1999/2000 school year – will be administered inthe 2002/2003 school year. From August 1999,the new vmbo (voorbereidend middelbaarberoepsonderwijs) (pre-vocational secondaryeducation) will replace both vbo and mavo.

Eindexamen middelbaar algemeenvoortgezet onderwijs/voorbereidendberoepsonderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Eindexamensmiddelbaar algemeen voortgezet onderwijs/voorbereidend beroepsonderwijsLevel of education: Lower secondary


Explanatory note:School-leaving examination in the final 4thyear of mavo/vbo (lower secondary generaleducation/pre-vocational education) for whichpupils must take theoretical subjects plus atleast one vocational subject at level C, thesecond highest awarded. Successfulcandidates are awarded a national diploma �Diploma middelbaar algemeen voortgezetonderwijs/voorbereidend beroepsonderwijs.Note: For vbo and mavo, new-style examinations– as a consequence of an educational reform tobe implemented in the 1999/2000 school year –will be administered in the 2002/2003 schoolyear. From August 1999, the new vmbo(voorbereidend middelbaar beroepsonderwijs)(pre-vocational secondary education) willreplace both vbo and mavo.

Eindexamen voorbereidendberoepsonderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Eindexamensvoorbereidend beroepsonderwijsLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:School-leaving examination in the final 4thyear of pre-vocational education (vbo). It isdivided into an internal school examination �Schoolexamen and a national examination �Centraal examen. The vbo-examinationcovers six subjects, general and vocational.Pupils choose a minimum of two vocationalsubjects. Examinations can be taken at threelevels in the case of vocational subjects andfour levels in the case of general subjects.Vocational subjects have no nationalexamination, but are issued by a vbo-examinations office. Successful candidatesare awarded the diploma � Diplomavoorbereidend beroepsonderwijs.Note: For vbo and mavo, new-styleexaminations – as a consequence of aneducational reform to be implemented in the1999/2000 school year – will be administeredin the 2002/2003 school year. From August1999, the new vmbo (voorbereidendmiddelbaar beroepsonderwijs) (pre-vocational secondary education) will replaceboth vbo and mavo.

Eindexamen voorbereidendwetenschappelijk onderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Eindexamensvoorbereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:School-leaving examination in the final 6thyear of pre-university education (vwo). It isdivided into an internal school examination� Schoolexamen and a national examination� Centraal examen. The vwo-examinationcovers a minimum of seven subjects. It iscompulsory to sit Dutch language andliterature and one modern language; forgymnasium pupils, one classical language(Latin or Greek language and literature) isalso compulsory. Successful candidates areawarded the � Diploma voorbereidendwetenschappelijk onderwijs.Note: New-style examinations are scheduledfor the 2001/2002 school year (or one yearearlier in experimental schools).

Eindtoets BasisonderwijsCountry: The NetherlandsLevel of education: PrimaryExplanatory note:Test commissioned by the Minister forEducation and developed by the NationalInstitute for Educational Measurement(Instituut voor Toetsontwikkeling) to measureindividual pupils’ levels of attainment in thelast year (year 8) of primary education(basisonderwijs). Optional test. The testconsist of four parts each of 60 multiplechoice questions, relating to language,arithmetic, data handling and ‘the worldaround us’ (wereldoriëntatie), the last partbeing optional. The test measures theperformance both of the individual pupil andof the school concerned compared to otherschools participating in the test. The test istaken by around 75% of all primary schools.It does not lead to any qualification, but theresults are used in the school reportdescribing the level of attainment andpotential of every pupil leaving primaryeducation. The pupil’s school report is for theuse of the chosen secondary school.Synonym: CITO-toets.


Eksamen fra videregående opplæringCountry: NorwayLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:School-leaving certificate organised by thenational authorities at the end of uppersecondary education (lasting 3 years). It is aprerequisite for obtaining a � Vitnemålcertificate. It involves examinations inNorwegian language and literature and one ormore principal subjects in the final year.

Eksamensbevis som (+ field of study)Country: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Eksamensbeviset,Eksamensbeviser, EksamensbeviserneLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Synonym of � Bevis for + (field of study).

End of Key Stage AssessmentCountry: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Primary/lower secondaryExplanatory note:See � National Curriculum Assessment and� Northern Ireland Curriculum Assessment.

Érettségi vizsgaCountry: HungaryGrammatical variants: Érettségi vizsgát,Érettségi vizsga*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Final academic upper secondary school leavingexamination, taken by pupils who havecompleted 4, 6 or 8 years of education in one ofthe three types of Gimnázium and have alreadyobtained the � Gimnáziumi bizonyítvány. Theexamination comprises a written part, set by theMinistry of Education, and an oral part organisedby the school, both of which cover a combinationof compulsory and optional specialized subjects.The compulsory subjects are Hungarianlanguage and literature, mathematics, history anda foreign language. Successful pupils receive the� Gimnáziumi érettségi bizonyítvány.

ErikoistumistutkintoCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: tutkinno-, tutkinto-,tutkinnotLevel of education: Higher

Explanatory note:A specialised higher degree awarded at the endof 3 to 8 years of specialised study in medicine,dentistry and veterinary medicine to studentswho already hold a degree of � Lisensiaatti. Itentitles graduates to enter the profession and touse the title Erikoislääkäri (in medicine),Erikoishammaslääkäri (in dentistry) andErikoiseläinlääkari (in veterinary medicine).Swedish term: Specialiseringsexamen orYrkesinriktad påbyggnadsexamen.

Erweiterte BerufsbildungsreifeCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Erweitert* Berufsbildungsreife*Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Term used in certain Länder for �Erweiterter Hauptschulabschluss.

Erweiterter HauptschulabschlussCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Erweiterter Hauptschulabschluß, Erweitert*Hauptschulabschluss*Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:General school-leaving qualification awardedby certain Länder at the end of lowersecondary general education to pupils whohave completed the tenth school year. Thereis no final examination. It gives access to the Berufsfachschule subject to certainadmissions requirements. Synonym:Erweiterte Berufsbildungsreife.

Erweiterter RealschulabschlussCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Erweiterter Realschulabschluß, Erweitert*Realschulabschluss*Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:General school-leaving qualification awardedafter year 10. The qualification is awarded bycertain Länder. Pupils must have passed thetenth school year and in some cases taken afinal examination and attained certain marks.In addition to the rights to which holders of aRealschulabschluss are entitled, the


qualification gives access to the GymnasialeOberstufe or Fachgymnasium. In someLänder, this certificate is called ErweiterterSekundarabschluss I.

Erweiterter Sekundarabschluss ICountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Erweiterter Sekundar-abschluß, Erweitert* Sekundarabschluss*Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Synonym for � Erweiterter Realschul-abschluss.

Esame di abilitazione all’insegnamento nellescuole materne

Country: ItalyGrammatical variants: Esami di abilitazioneall’insegnamento nelle scuole materneLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Examination held at the end of training fornursery school teachers (scuola magistrale).Only pupils who have obtained satisfactorymarks during the entire year of study may enter.The examination consists of two written tests, anoral test and a practical test. This leads to the �Diploma di abilitazione all’insegnamento nellescuole materne.Note: With the implementation of the amendinglaw of 1990, these courses will be phased out,the last courses under this system having begunin 1997/98.

Esame di diploma universitarioCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Esami di diplomauniversitarioLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination held by university institutions, inline with criteria established officially atnational level, at the end of the study cycleleading to the diploma � DiplomaUniversitario, for students who have alreadypassed the examinations in all subjects �Esami di profitto. It consists of the defence of afinal written assignment before an examiningboard appointed by the Faculty Council.Successful completion of this examinationleads to the title � Diplomato universitario,followed by the name of the specialist field.

Esame di idoneitàCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Esami di idoneitàLevel of education: Primary/lower/uppersecondaryExplanatory note:Examination held by state institutions ofprimary, lower and upper secondaryeducation for pupils who have followedcourses in an officially-recognised privateschool. The examination covers all of thesubjects taught. Successful completion of thisexamination allows candidates access to theproper class of primary, lower or uppersecondary state education.

Esame di laureaCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Esami di laureaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination held by university institutions,in line with criteria established officially atnational level, at the end of study leading tothe diploma � Diploma di Laurea forstudents who have already passed theexaminations in all subjects � Esami diprofitto. It consists of the defence of a finalwritten assignment before an examiningboard appointed by the Faculty Council.Successful completion of this examinationgives entitlement to the title � Dottore in,followed by the field of study.

Esame di licenza di maestro d’arteCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Esami di licenza dimaestro d’arteLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Examination held by the school at the end ofthe first cycle of upper secondary artisticstudies in an Istituto d’Arte. Only pupils whohave obtained satisfactory marks during thefinal year of studies may enter. Theexamination consists of written and oral testscovering the entire range of subjects. It leadsto the � Diploma di maestro d’arte.


Esame di licenza elementareCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Esami di licenza elementareLevel of education: PrimaryExplanatory note:Examination held by the school at the end ofprimary education. It includes two writtentests and one oral test. It is taken before anexamining board comprised of the classteachers and two others appointed by theteachers’ council. It leads to the � Diploma dilicenza elementare.

Esame di licenza mediaCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Esami di licenza mediaLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Examination held by the school at the end oflower secondary education (scuola media)before an examining board. It includes threewritten tests in Italian, mathematics and oneforeign language, as well as a test in allsubjects. This examination leads to the �Diploma di licenza media.

Esame di maturitàCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Esami di maturitàLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:National examination valid until 1998, held atthe end of upper secondary education beforean examining board appointed by the ministry.Pupils are allowed to enter the examinationonly if they have received satisfactory marksduring the final year. It includes two writtentests in Italian and, depending on the branch,mathematics or Latin/Greek or a foreignlanguage and one oral test. This examinationformerly led to the � Diploma di maturità.From 1998/99, it is replaced by the � Esamedi Stato conclusivo dei corsi di studio diistruzione secondaria superiore.

Esame di profittoCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Esami di profittoLevel of education: Higher

Explanatory note:Examinations held by university institutionscovering the individual subjects of the coursecurriculum leading to the � DiplomaUniversitario, � Diploma di Laurea or �Diploma di Specializzazione. Successfulcompletion of these examinations allowscandidates to sit the final examination of thisperiod of study � Esame di laurea.

Esame di qualificaCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Esami di qualificaLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Examination held by the school at the end ofupper secondary vocational education(istituto professionale). Pupils are allowed tosit the examination only if they have receivedsatisfactory marks during the final year. Itincludes two written tests and one oral test.This examination leads to the � Diploma diqualifica.

Esame di specializzazioneCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Esami di specializzazioneLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination held by university institutions, inline with criteria established officially atnational level, at the end of the period of studyleading to the � Diploma di Specializzazione,for students who have already passed theexaminations in all subjects � Esami diprofitto. It consists of the defence of a finalwritten assignment before an examining boardappointed by the Faculty Council. Successfulcompletion of this examination givesentitlement to the title � Specializzato inaccompanied by the specialist field.

Esame di Stato conclusivo dei corsi di studiodi istruzione secondaria superiore

Country: ItalyGrammatical variants: Esami di Statoconclusivi dei corsi di studio di istruzionesecondaria superioreLevel of education: Upper secondary


Explanatory note:National examination which, from 1998/99,replaces the examination held at the end of uppersecondary education before an examining boardappointed by the ministry. Pupils are allowed toenter the examination only if they have receivedsatisfactory marks during the final year. Itincludes three written tests in Italian and,depending on the branch, mathematics orLatin/Greek or a foreign language. The third testis a cross-curricular examination. There is alsoone oral test. This examination leads to the �Diploma di superamento dell’esame di Statoconclusivo dei corsi di studio di istruzionesecondaria superiore.

Esame integrativoCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Esami integrativiLevel of education: All levelsExplanatory note:Examination held by the educationalinstitution concerned for candidates who:• are studying at any education level in Italy

or abroad and wish to enrol in theequivalent year in another type ofinstitution of the same level in Italy;

• have completed the supplementary uppersecondary course of study (corsointegrativo) lasting 1 year (after havingsuccessfully completed upper secondarystudies lasting less than 5 years).

The tests are defined by the educationalinstitution concerned. Following successfulcompletion of this examination, candidatesreceive a certificate without a specific title orindication of marks giving them access tohigher education.

ESEUCountry: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Examen spécial d’entrée àl’université.

Exam. oecon.Country: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Examinatus oeconomiae.

Exame de equivalência à frequênciaCountry: PortugalGrammatical variants: Exames de equivalência à frequênciaLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Compulsory tests to be taken by pupils interminal subjects in years 10 and 11, and bypupils of year 12 in subjects not requiring thecompulsory nationwide final examination,taken by external pupils and independentcandidates in the context of general ortechnological courses.

Exame final de âmbito nacionalCountry: PortugalGrammatical variants: Exames finais deâmbito nacionalLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Compulsory nationwide final examinationleading (except for pupils who have to take �Exame de equivalência à frequência) to theaward of the � Diploma de EstudosSecundários, taken in some subjects at the endof upper secondary education (year 12) bypupils who have regularly attended officiallyrecognized schools (internal pupils), by pupilswhose attendance was for some reasoninterrupted or who attended schools notofficially recognized (external pupils), and byindependent candidates in the context of thegeneral or technological courses.

Examen (inter)diocésainCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: PrimaryExplanatory note:Optional examination, organised at the end ofprimary education in schools in the non-State(Catholic) network. It consists of written testscovering French and mathematics set by thediocesan inspectors. Success in this examinationcan be taken into account in awarding the �Certificat d’Études de Base certificate.

Examen beroepsonderwijsCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Examens beroepsopleidingenLevel of education: Upper secondary


Explanatory note:Leaving examination for an exit qualificationfor a vocational training course (opleidingberoepsonderwijs or beroepsopleiding),leading to a � Diploma opleidingberoepsonderwijs. Exit qualifications describeknowledge, understanding, skills and whereapplicable, the vocational attitude which thosecompleting vocational training courses shouldpossess with a view to their future career androle in society. Exit qualifications areformulated by the National VocationalEducation Bodies for each sector ofemployment, group of sectors or occupationalgroup. The exit qualifications are divided upinto a number of partial qualifications. Theleaving examination consists of units whichcorrespond to the partial qualifications. Theexamination is successfully passed if all thetests leading to the partial qualifications forthe educational programme are passed.

Examen cantonalCountry: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: PrimaryExplanatory note:Optional examination organised at the end ofprimary education by certain administrativesubdivisions (cantons) under the supervisionof the cantonal inspector of primaryeducation. The examination consists ofwritten tests in the main subjects. Success inthis examination can be taken into account inawarding the � Certificat d’Études de Base.This examination is taken only by pupils inthe official grant-aided communal andprovincial education network and can replacethe examination set by the school.

Examen d’admission à l’enseignementsecondaire général

Country: LuxembourgLevel of education: PrimaryExplanatory note:Selection examination, held at the end of primaryeducation which lasts 6 years. It is reserved forpupils who wish to enter secondary generaleducation, even though, according to their marksin the official selection procedure, they have beenjudged to be suited to secondary technicaleducation. The parents must lodge an appeal

against this decision for a pupil to sit theexamination. The examination covers German,French and arithmetic. Pupils who pass may beadmitted into secondary general education.

Examen d’Aptitude à accéder àl’Enseignement Supérieur

Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Optional examination, organised at the end ofupper secondary vocational education by theexamination board of the French Community.Pupils who pass this examination are awardedthe � Diplôme d’Aptitude à accéder àl’Enseignement Supérieur. This certificate isonly intended for pupils who have passedtheir final year assessment in certainvocational schools and for foreign pupils.

Examen de absolvireCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Examenul de absolvireLevel of education: Upper secondary/post-secondary/higherExplanatory note:Examination of completion of studies, held atdifferent levels of vocational education(upper secondary, post-secondary and highereducation). The tests are devised by eachinstitution, on the basis of criteria developedby the Ministry of National Education andapproved by the national educationauthorities. The number of tests and theircontent differ according to the type, level andspecialisation of the educational institution. Itis compulsory for obtaining the certificate �Certificat de absolvire (in schools of post-secondary education) or the qualification �Diplomã de absolvire (in upper secondaryvocational schools or in institutions of short-term university education).

Examen de bacalaureatCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants:Examenul de bacalaureatLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Final national examination organised forgeneral and specialised secondary schools


lasting 4 or 5 years. It is compulsory forobtaining the qualification � Diplomã debacalaureat, which gives access to highereducation. The tests (written and oral) aredevised by the Ministry of National Educationand differ depending on the school’sspecialisation, or on the section. They coverRomanian language and literature, thelanguage and literature of the linguisticminority (for pupils pursuing their studies inone of the minority languages), mathematics,history, the foreign language studied, a choiceof one subject from physics, chemistry,biology and Romanian geography, and onespecialist subject. In schools of general,theological, artistic or sports education, pupilsare allowed to choose one human sciencessubject instead of mathematics.

Examen de capacitateCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants:Examenul de capacitateLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Final national examination set under nationalcontrol at the end of 4 years of lowersecondary general education. It is compulsoryfor obtaining the certificate � Certificat decapacitate. It includes written, oral andpractical tests (for pupils in artistic and sportsschools), devised by each institution, on thebasis of Ministry of National Educationcriteria and directives. They must be approvedby the regional education authorities. Thetests cover Romanian language and literature,mathematics, history and Romaniangeography. Pupils from linguistic minoritiesmust sit an extra examination covering theirown language and literature.

Examen de fin d’apprentissageCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Examination marking the successfulconclusion of vocational studies which takesplace at the end of the final year of education(year 12, referred to as essentially practical). Itis held by the school and includes a theoreticalpart and a practical part. This examination

gives entitlement either to the � Certificatd’aptitude technique et professionnelle, or tothe � Certificat de Capacité Manuelle, if thepupil passes only the practical part.

Examen de fin d’études du technicienCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Examination held nationally at the end ofsecondary technician-training studies.Success in the examination gives entitlementto the � Diplôme de technicien.

Examen de fin d’études secondairesCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:National examination held at the end ofsecondary general education by the Ministryof Education and covering the subjects in thefinal year of the pupil’s section of studies,including German as language of instruction,mathematics, sciences and a foreignlanguage. Success in this examination givesentitlement to the � Diplôme de fin d’étudessecondaires.

Examen de fin d’études secondairestechniques

Country: LuxembourgLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:National examination held at the end ofsecondary technical education by theMinistry of Education and covering thesubjects in the final year of the pupil’s sectionof studies. This examination givesentitlement to the � Diplôme de fin d’étudessecondaires techniques, which specifies thesection as well as the branches in which thepupil has been examined.

Examen de licenþãCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Examenul de licenþãLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination of completion of universitystudies lasting 4 to 6 years. It is held by theinstitution and is compulsory for obtaining


the qualification � Diplomã de licenþã,conferring the title � Licenþiat. It consists ofthe defence before an examining board of awritten work on a subject chosen by thestudent from several proposed by the faculty.

Examen mboCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Mbo-examenLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Examen middelbaarberoepsonderwijs.

Examen middelbaar beroepsonderwijsCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Examens middelbaar beroepsonderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving examination for an exit qualification ofa secondary vocational education course, varyingin length between 2 and 4 years (opleidingmiddelbaar beroepsonderwijs), leading to a �Diploma middelbaar beroepsonderwijs. Theexamination consists of an internal schoolexamination and a national leaving examination.Abbreviation: Examen mbo. Note: Gradually to be replaced by theexaminations under the law on adult andvocational education, introduced in 1996 (Weteducatie en beroepsonderwijs). See �Examen beroepsonderwijs.

Examen spécial d’admission aux étudesuniversitaires de 1er cycle en sciencesappliquées

Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Examination set at the start of the academic yearby the authorities of each university that confersthe title � Ingénieur (civil), on the basis of aprogramme laid down by the government of theFrench Community. It comprises writtenexaminations in mathematical subjects –analysis, algebra, trigonometry and numerical

calculation, geometry and analytical geometry.The examination is compulsory and access toapplied science courses is conditional onpassing it. Intending students who do not haveenough education in mathematics to take theexamination can make this good by taking ayear’s preparatory course in the uppersecondary schools.

Examen spécial d’entrée à l’université Country: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Former entrance examination to universityeducation, replaced since 1994 by the �Diplôme d’accès aux études universitairescertificate. Abbreviation: ESEU.

Examinatus oeconomiaeCountry: NorwayGrammatical variants: Examinata oeconomiaeLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree and title awarded to students whopass written and oral final examinations at theend of undergraduate university studieslasting 3½ years in the field of economics.The examinations are set by each institutionand assessed by two examiners, of whom oneis external in order to avoid the possibility ofbias. The certificate mentions the student’sresults in the examinations and the average ofthe marks in the main subjects. It gives accessto post-graduate university studies in thesame field. Abbreviation: Exam. oecon.

Extraneï-examensCountry: The NetherlandsLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Final school-leaving examinations forexamination candidates not registered aspupils at the school, but only taking the finalexamination � Eindexamen at the school forgeneral secondary education under the sameconditions and at the same time as pupils infull-time education.


FacharbeiterbriefCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Facharbeiterbriefe,Facharbeiterbrief*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of vocational competence awardedin the context of vocational training in theduales System to pupils who pass the �Ausbildungsabschlussprüfung in a recognisedoccupation requiring formal training(anerkannter Ausbildungsberuf). Thiscertificate is always awarded along with an �Abschlusszeugnis der Berufsschule. It givesaccess to the occupation and constitutes aprerequisite for access to a Fachschule, afterpupils gain the required occupationalexperience, and for qualification as a mastercraftsman.

Fachgebundene HochschulreifeCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants:Fachgebunden* Hochschulreife*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification entitling holders to studyparticular subjects at a higher educationinstitution. It can be obtained in varioustraining courses with a vocational focus inupper secondary education. Certificated in the�Zeugnis der Fachgebundenen Hochschulreife.

FachhochschulreifeCountry: GermanyLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification entitling holders to study at aFachhochschule, or in some Länder at aBerufsakademie. It can usually be obtainedby means of a final examination at the end ofthe twelfth school year in a Fachoberschuleor under certain conditions in another full-time vocational school. The final examinationincludes written, oral and in some casespractical tests. Certified in the � Zeugnis derFachhochschulreife.

FachhochschulreifeprüfungCountry: LiechtensteinGrammatical variants: Fachhochschul-reifeprüfungen, Fachhochschulreifeprüfung*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Optional final examination, taken at the endof upper secondary vocational education(four years in the duales System, threesemesters in evening classes). It leads to thecertificate � Fachhochschulreifezeugnis.The content of this examination is developedby each institution. It includes written tests inGerman, English, mathematics and physicsand oral tests in mathematics, German andEnglish, as well as in a subject to be chosenfrom history, political science, law andeconomics, or chemistry. Synonym:Berufsmatura.

F f


FachhochschulreifezeugnisCountry: LiechtensteinGrammatical variants:Fachhochschulreifezeugnisse,Fachhochschulreifezeugnis*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of upper secondaryvocational education awarded to pupils whopass the examination � Fachhochschul-reifeprüfung. It mentions the specialisation,the subjects and the examination results. Itgives access to specialised higher education(in a Fachhochschule), without an entranceexamination.

FachoberschulreifeCountry: GermanyLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:School-leaving qualification generallyconsidered equivalent to a � Realschul-abschluss, awarded in general education inlower secondary education at the end of year10 and in Berufsaufbauschulen in uppersecondary education. It is a prerequisite foradmission to a Fachoberschule.

FagbrevCountry: NorwayGrammatical variants: Fagbrevet, FagbreveneLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of a vocational qualification in acraft trade awarded to pupils who pass the �Fagprøve examination at the end of avocational training course lasting 3 yearsminimum. It specifies the trade and the resultsof the examination. It gives access to the trade.

FagkarakterbevisCountry: NorwayGrammatical variants: Fagkarakterbeviset,FagkarakterbeviseneLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:A subject-grade certificate which documentscompletion of one or more subjects which arepart of a course.

FagprøveCountry: NorwayGrammatical variants: Fagprøven, Fagprøver, FagprøveneLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Compulsory vocational examinationorganised at the end of an apprenticeship in afirm or upper secondary school. It leads to a� Fagbrev certificate. It is aimed at pupilswho have taken courses lasting 3 years in anupper secondary vocational school and forexternal candidates. Schools and/or firmsdevelop the contents of this examination onthe basis of the training programme in theparticular sector, in accordance with thevocational training directives of the Ministryof Education. The examination includes threesections: planning, implementation anddocumentation relevant to carrying out apractical task. External candidates must passtheoretical examinations relating to the trade.

Felsõfokú szakképesítést igazoló

bizonyítvány

Country: HungaryGrammatical variants:Felsõfokú szakképesítést igazoló

bizonyítvány, Felsõfokú szakképesítést

igazoló bizonyítványok

Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma of vocational qualification awarded atthe end of 2 years of non-university vocationalhigher education to students who have passedthe � Szakmai vizsga examination. It certifiesthe vocational qualification (felsõfokúszakképesítés) included in the National List ofQualifications. It mentions the subjects studiedand the results obtained during the studies. Itgives access to the appropriate trade oroccupation and entitles holders to continue theirstudies in non-university higher educationcolleges (Fõiskola) or in university highereducation (Egyetem).

Felvételi vizsgaCountry: HungaryGrammatical variants: Felvételi vizsgát,Felvételi vizsg*Level of education: Lower secondary


Explanatory note:Entrance examination, set and organised byinstitutions of upper secondary general andvocational education, and higher educationinstitutions in order to select pupils accordingto their knowledge and ability. In the firstcase, it includes written examinations in themother tongue, mathematics (on rareoccasions, in history and literature) and in thespecialist subjects chosen by the pupil, inaddition to an oral examination relating to thepupil’s chosen subjects. The content isdetermined by each institution. The academicrequirements for entrance to higher educationinstitutions are set out in detail by eachinstitution.

FiskerikandidatCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree and title awarded to students at the endof a 5-year university course in fisheries.Students must pass written and oral finalexaminations set by the institution and presenta final dissertation. Students are assessed bytwo examiners, of whom one is external toavoid the possibility of bias. The certificatementions the student’s results in theexaminations, the subject of the finaldissertation and its assessment. It gives accessto employment and/or to studies for adoctorate.

Foaie matricolã

Country: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Foaia matricolã

Level of education: Lower secondary/uppersecondary/higher Explanatory note:Student matriculation record, indicating thelevel of education, the subjects and the marksobtained during all of the years of study. Thisdocument is used at lower secondary, uppersecondary and university levels. It certifies thecompletion of studies. A copy of this record isissued, without examination. At the end oflower secondary education it gives access toupper secondary vocational education lastingbetween 1 and 3 years.

Fõiskolai oklevél

Country: HungaryGrammatical variants: Fõiskolai oklevet,

Fõiskolai oklevek, Fõiskolai okleveleket

Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded at the end of 3 or 4 years ofnon-university higher education in a college(Fõiskola), to students who have passed the� Záróvizsga final examination. It mentionsthe field of study, the specialisation and thefinal mark. It gives access to employment andentitles students to take a college post-graduate course or to continue their studies atuniversity (Egyetem).

FolkeskolelærerCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Folkeskolelæreren, -lærerer, -lærerneLevel of education: Higher Explanatory note:Title awarded to students who successfullycomplete the 4-year teacher trainingprogramme taken at a specialised (non-university) teacher training college(Lærerseminarium). It gives access toemployment as a teacher at compulsoryeducation level (primary and lowersecondary).

Folkeskolens afgangsprøveCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Folkeskolens afgangsprøverLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Non-compulsory leaving examination, whichmay cover 10 subjects, at the end of the ninthyear, on completion of compulsory education.This examination includes a nationallycoordinated written part and an oral part setby the subject teacher and a teacher fromanother school in accordance with statutoryprovisions laid down for the individualsubjects. Pupils who pass the examinationhave the marks obtained in the optional finalexamination entered into the � Afgangsbevisfor Folkeskolen. It is required for admissionto the Gymnasium, HHX and HTX in uppersecondary education.


Folkeskolens udvidede afgangsprøveCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Folkeskolens udvidede afgangsprøver Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Non-compulsory advanced leavingexamination on completion of the optionaltenth year of the Folkeskole, which may cover6 subjects. This examination includes anationally coordinated written part and an oralpart set by the subject teacher and a teacherfrom another school in accordance withstatutory provisions laid down for the

individual subjects. Pupils who pass theexamination have the marks obtained in thenon-compulsory final examination enteredinto the � Afgangsbevis for Folkeskolen. It isrequired for admission to HF courses in uppersecondary education.

Fristående yrkesprovCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: -provet, -provenLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Näyttötutkinto.


GASCountry: Belgium (Flemish Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Gediplomeerde in deaanvullende studies van (followed by thename of the field of study).

GCE A levelCountry: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � General Certificate ofEducation Advanced Level.

GCE AS ExaminationCountry: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � General Certificate ofEducation Advanced SupplementaryExamination.

GCE AS LevelCountry: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � General Certificate ofEducation Advanced Subsidiary Level.

GCSECountry: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � General Certificate ofSecondary Education.

Geaggregeerde voor het secundair onderwijsCountry: Belgium (Flemish Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Teaching qualification awarded to studentswho successfully complete either a first cycleof non-university education in a Hogeschool(groep 1) or a second cycle of university ornon-university education (groep 2). Theexaminations are written and/or oral (as theteacher decides) and cover all the subjectsstudied. The degree certificate indicates thename of the institution and the title of thediploma, while a supplement gives details ofthe subjects studied and the marks awarded. Itgives entry to the teaching profession at lower(groep 1) or upper (groep 2) secondary schoollevel.

Gediplomeerde in de aanvullende studiesvan (+ specialisation)

Country: Belgium (Flemish Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded to students who, inaccordance with the university programme,successfully complete one year ofadditional post-graduate education. Theexaminations are written and/or oral (as theteacher decides) and cover all the subjectsstudied. The diploma indicates the field ofstudy and gives entry to the relevantprofession or occupation. Abbreviation:GAS.

G g


Gediplomeerde in de gespecialiseerde studiesvan (+ specialisation)

Country: Belgium (Flemish Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded to students who inaccordance with the programme successfullycomplete a 1- or 2-year course of specialiseduniversity post-graduate education. Theexaminations are written and/or oral (as theteacher decides) and cover all the subjectsstudied. The diploma indicates the field ofstudy and gives entry to the relevantprofession or occupation. Abbreviation: GGS.

Gediplomeerde in de voortgezette studie van(+ specialisation)

Country: Belgium (Flemish Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded to students who inaccordance with the programme successfullycomplete advanced post-graduate studies in aHogeschool. The examinations are writtenand/or oral (as the teacher decides) and coverall the subjects studied. The diploma indicatesthe field of study and gives entry to therelevant profession or occupation.

Gegradueerde (+ specialisation)Country: Belgium (Flemish Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded to students whosuccessfully complete, in accordance with theprogramme, a 3-year course of non-universityhigher education in various fields (e.g.accountancy, nursing). The examinations arewritten and/or oral (as the teacher decides)and cover all the subjects studied. Thediploma indicates the field of study and givesentry to the relevant profession or occupationor to post-graduate studies.

General Certificate of Education AdvancedLevel

Country: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Qualifications normally awarded at the end of2 years of post-compulsory general education

to pupils who meet the required standard.These qualifications, which are awarded on asingle subject basis, are certificated byindependent awarding bodies, all of whichoffer syllabuses for a range of subjects.Working within a framework regulated by thenational qualifications and curriculumauthorities, the awarding bodies draw up thesyllabuses, set and mark examination papers,and moderate coursework to ensureconsistency of standards. Most pupils study 3subjects, choosing from a wide range ofgeneral and some vocational subjects.Syllabuses may be linear, with evaluation atthe end of the course, or modular, withevaluation at the end of each block of work aswell as at the end of the course. Schemes ofassessment vary, but must include externallyset assessments, taken under supervised andtimed conditions, which may be writtenand/or oral and/or practical, depending on thesubject. Course work may also contribute tothe final grade. The certificate(s) indicate thename(s) of the individual subject(s), andgrade(s) obtained. Passes are graded on adescending scale from A to E, and grades Nand U are regarded as fails. The qualificationis categorised as an advanced levelqualification within the National Frameworkof qualifications. It is a qualification for entryto higher education, depending on theinstitution and programme concerned and thenumber and grades of passes obtained. It alsogives access to employment and to certainforms of training. Abbreviation: A level, GCEA level.

General Certificate of Education AdvancedSubsidiary Level

Country: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Examination replacing the � GeneralCertificate of Education AdvancedSupplementary Examination to be availablefor first teaching from September 2000. Torepresent the first year of a full � GeneralCertificate of Education Advanced Levelcourse of study, and therefore set at a lowerstandard. Pupils will study up to five subjectsat AS level. Abbreviation: GCE AS Level.


General Certificate of Education AdvancedSupplementary Examination

Country: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:A single subject qualification. Covers abouthalf the content of a full subject at �General Certificate of Education AdvancedLevel, but to the same depth and with the samerules about assessment, grading andcoursework. Available as linear or modularcourses, they can be taken over 1 or 2 years.To be replaced from 2000 by the new �General Certificate of Education AdvancedSubsidiary Level qualification. Abbreviation:GCE AS examination.

General Certificate of Secondary EducationCountry: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification awarded at the end of the firsttwo years of upper secondary education, i.e. thelast year of compulsory education, to pupils(age 15 to 16) who meet the required standard.This qualification is the main method of pupilassessment at age 16, under the NationalCurriculum assessment arrangements, althoughit can be taken at any age.The qualifications, which are on a singlesubject basis, are certificated by independentawarding bodies, each of which offerssyllabuses in a wide range of NationalCurriculum and other subjects. Workingwithin a framework regulated by the nationalqualifications and curriculum authorities, theawarding bodies draw up the syllabuses, setand mark examination papers, and moderatecoursework to ensure consistency ofstandards. Most pupils take GCSEs inEnglish, mathematics and science and a rangeof other subjects. Syllabuses may be linear,with evaluation at the end of the course, ormodular, with evaluation at the end of eachblock of work as well as at the end of thecourse. Schemes of assessment vary, butalways include externally set and markedassessments, taken under supervised andtimed conditions, which may be writtenand/or oral and/or practical, depending on thesubject. Coursework may also contribute to

the final grade. The certificates indicate thenames of the individual subject(s) passed andthe grade(s) obtained by the pupil, on adescending scale A*, A, B, C, D, E, F and G.Grades A* to C are regarded as higher gradepasses, and as intermediate levelqualifications within the National Frameworkof qualifications. Grades D to G are regardedas lower grade passes, and as foundation levelqualifications within the National Frameworkof qualifications. Grade U (unclassified) isregarded as a fail. This qualification givesaccess to employment and to certain forms oftraining and to many programmes of post-compulsory upper secondary education.Abbreviation: GCSE.

General National Vocational QualificationCountry: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:A qualification intended to offer acomprehensive preparation for employmentas well as a route to higher levelqualifications as an alternative to �General Certificate of Secondary Educationor General Cerficate of Educationqualifications. Courses leading to GNVQs areaimed at young people over compulsoryschool age who remain in full-time education,although they can be taken by students of anyage. Certificated by independent awardingbodies, working within a frameworkregulated by the national qualifications andcurriculum authorities. Qualifications areavailable in 15 broad vocational areas (e.g.business, retail distribution services), and atthree levels equivalent to foundation,intermediate and advanced within theNational Framework of qualifications.GNVQs are made up of units which can becertificated separately if the full qualificationis not completed. Assessment is primarilybased on internal assessment, moderated bythe awarding body to ensure consistency ofstandards, although it also includes externallyassessed tests. Completed GNVQs are gradedat pass, merit and distinction. AdvancedGNVQs are a qualification for entry to highereducation, depending on the institution and


programme concerned and the grade obtained.Abbreviation: GNVQ.

General Scottish Vocational QualificationCountry: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Upper secondary/post-secondaryExplanatory note:A qualification taken by pupils who remain infull-time education for 2 years after theminimum school leaving age, providing acomprehensive preparation for employmentas well as a qualification for entry to higherlevel qualifications. Awarded by the ScottishQualifications Authority (SQA). Constitutesan alternative to the more academic �Scottish Certificate of Education – HigherGrade. Evaluation is by assessment, includingpractical components. The certificateindicates the subjects studied and passed.Abbreviation: GSVQ.

Genikes Exetaseis ((ΓΓεεννιικκέέςς ΕΕξξεεττάάσσεειιςς))Country: GreeceGrammatical variants:Γενικών Εξετάσεων, γενικ-* εξετασ-*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Compulsory national entrance examinationfor institutions of higher education (AnotatoEkpaidevtiko Idrima – AEI and TechnologikoEkpaidevtiko Idrima – TEI), organised by theMinistry of National Education and ReligiousAffairs for candidates who have obtained theirupper secondary school leaving certificate �Apolytirio Genikou Lykeiou. The examinationsinclude written examinations in four mainsubjects, defined on the basis of the subjectsthe student intends to study and has taken as optional subjects during the final year of secondary education. Passing thisexamination gives access to higher education.

GesellenbriefCountry: GermanyLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded at the end of vocationaltraining in the duales System to trainees whopass the � Ausbildungsabschlussprüfung in acraft before the authority responsible for

vocational qualification (chamber).Certificate always awarded together with the� Abschlusszeugnis der Berufsschule. Itqualifies the holder for a vocationalqualification and constitutes a prerequisite forfurther qualification as a master craftsman(Handwerksmeister).

Getuigschrift (+ type of course)Country: Belgium (Flemish Community)Grammatical variants: GetuigschriftenLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who pass the finalexaminations set at the end of lower and uppersecondary vocational education. Depending onthe type of education, there are threecertificates: the getuigschrift eerste graadsecundair onderwijs (certificate of lowersecondary education) which is awarded at theend of the first 2 years of secondary educationi.e. lower secondary, the getuigschrift tweedegraad secundair onderwijs (certificate of uppersecondary education) which is awarded at theend of the first 2 years of upper secondaryeducation to pupils who have already obtainedthe certificate of the end of lower secondaryeducation (it can replace the �

Studiegetuigschrift), and the getuigschrift vanleertijd (apprenticeship certificate) which isawarded at the end of the first 2 years of uppersecondary vocational education with anapprenticeship in parallel. The examinations(written or oral) are set by the individual schooland cover all the subjects studied. Thecertificate mentions the type of education. Itcan be taken into account for the admission ofthe pupil to the next level of education.

Getuigschrift BasisonderwijsCountry: Belgium (Flemish Community)Grammatical variants: GetuigschriftenLevel of education: PrimaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who, at the endof primary education, have satisfactorilyattained the curriculum objectives. Thecertificate refers to the relevant legislationand bears the signatures of the chairman andmembers of the teaching staff involved aswell as the name and signature of the


chairman of the school’s organising body, thename of the school and the name andsignature of the pupil. The assessment, carriedout by the teachers collectively, covers interalia written examinations set by the school.The certificate entitles the pupil to enter thefirst year of secondary education. It can alsobe awarded to a pupil who passes the first yearof general secondary education or the secondyear of vocational secondary education.

Getuigschrift basisvormingCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: GetuigschriftenLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate, awarded to pupils who completethe period of basic secondary education(basisvorming) by passing all the tests �Toetsen basisvorming.

Getuigschrift van het afsluitend examenCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Getuigschriften vande afsluitende examensLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by universities and higherprofessional education institutions – hboinstitutions (hogescholen) – to students whopass the final examination for a first degree (ingeneral, 168 credits equivalent to 4 years ofstudy, but at university level 210 credits/5 yearsof technical study and of study in dentistry, and252 credits/6 years of study in medicine,pharmacy and veterinary medicine). The �Afsluitend examen is a review of the student’sacademic achievement to determine whetherall the requirements of the programme havebeen met, i.e. whether the student has passed allthe intermediate examinations (tentamens) asrequired by the teaching and examinationregulations of the particular institution. Theexamination is organised by an examiningboard set up by the institution andresponsibility for its content lies with thecompetent authority of the institution. Thecertificate lists the name of the course, thesubjects in which the student is examined, and– where appropriate – the professionalqualification obtained. It gives the graduate

from non-university education the legal rightto use the academic titles � Baccalaureus, �Ingenieur or (for international use) �Bachelor. In university education it leads tothe titles of � Doctorandus, � Ingenieur, �Meester or (for international use) � Master.

Getuigschrift van het propedeutisch examenCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Getuigschriften vande propedeutische examensLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate received after successfulcompletion of the propaedeutic examination� Propedeutisch examen. This examinationis taken at the end of the first year of study inboth university and non-university education(higher professional education – hogerberoepsonderwijs – hbo). Students must passthis examination.

GGSCountry: Belgium (Flemish Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Gediplomeerde in degespecialiseerde studies van (followed by thename of the field of study).

Gimnáziumi bizonyítványCountry: HungaryGrammatical variants:Gimnáziumi bizonyítványok,Gimnáziumi bizonyítvány*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of upper secondaryacademic education (Gimnázium), awardedon the basis of class marks, without a finalexamination. It mentions the subjects and theresults obtained during the studies. Thiscertificate enables pupils to take the �Érettségi vizsga examination or to gain accessto employment.

Gimnáziumi érettségi bizonyítványCountry: HungaryGrammatical variants:Gimnáziumi érettségi bizonyítványok,Gimnáziumi érettségi bizonyítvány*


Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of secondaryacademic education, awarded by schools topupils who pass the � Érettségi vizsgaexamination. It mentions the subjects and theresults obtained in the examination. It isnecessary for entry to higher education.

GNVQCountry: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � General NationalVocational Qualification.

Graduado en Educación SecundariaCountry: SpainGrammatical variants: Graduados en Educación SecundariaLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded at the end of lowersecondary general education (EducaciónSecundaria Obligatoria – ESO, defined by the1990 Organic Law on the General Organisationof the Education System – Ley Orgánica deOrdenación General del Sistema Educativo –LOGSE) lasting 4 years to pupils who pass intheir continuous assessment in each subjecttaken. Pupils are assessed by all their teacherstogether, coordinated by the teacher responsiblefor the class and with advice from the guidanceservices (Departamento de orientación). Theresults in this assessment can be taken intoaccount in guiding the pupil to pursue furthereducation or a career. The certificate givesaccess to upper secondary education, generalbranch (Bachillerato) and vocational branch(Formación profesional específica de gradomedio).

Graduado EscolarCountry: SpainGrammatical variants: Graduados EscolaresLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded under theeducation system in effect prior to the reformunder the 1990 Organic Law on the GeneralOrganisation of the Education System (Ley

Orgánica de Ordenación General del SistemaEducativo – LOGSE), at the end of 8 years ofcompulsory education (Educación GeneralBásica – EGB) to pupils who passed all thesubjects. It gave access to upper secondarygeneral education (Bachillerato Unificado yPolivalente – BUP) or lower secondaryvocational education (Formación Profesionalde primer grado – FP I). This certificate willbe completely replaced by the certificate �Graduado en Educación Secundaria, whencourses of an equivalent level defined by the1990 LOGSE are fully established.

Graduat en (+ specialisation)Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded by Hautes Écoles at theend of 3 years of short-cycle non-universityhigher education to students who pass theexaminations set by the individual institutionrequired under the programme in each subjectand who have submitted a final dissertation(mémoire). The certificate mentions thespecialisation, subjects taken, subject of themémoire and final mark awarded. It confersthe title � Gradué(e) en followed by thespecialisation. The qualification gives accessto the relevant profession, to specialisededucation leading to the � Diplôme despécialisation and to second cycle long-termhigher education or to university education.

Graduate DiplomaCountry: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded following a (usually)1-year course to graduates seeking vocationalreorientation.

Gradué(e) en (+ specialisation)Country: Belgium (French CommunityLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded by Hautes Écoles tostudents who obtain the certificate of �Graduat en (+ specialisation). As distinct from� Candidat(e) en, � Licencié(e) en, � Maîtreen etc., gradué(e) can be used as an adjective as


part of a professional title (the professionaldesignation + gradué(e)), e.g. infirmier(ère)gradué(e), éducateur(trice) gradué(e),bibliothécaire documentaliste gradué(e).

GrundexamenCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: examinaLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Ammatillinenperustutkinto.

GrundskollärarexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Professional degree in the field of educationfor the compulsory school, awarded after a3½- to 4½-year programme of full-time study,which may include a degree project. Thedegree certificate normally mentions thespecialisation, the subjects passed and themarks and grades obtained. The degree givesaccess to employment and general eligibilityfor doctoral studies.

GSVQCountry: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Upper secondary/post-secondary

Explanatory note:Abbreviation of � General ScottishVocational Qualification.

GymnasielärarexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Professional degree in the field of educationfor the upper secondary school, awarded aftera 2½-, 4- or 4½-year programme of full-timestudy (depending on subjects studied andvocational experience), which normallyincludes a degree project. It is also possible toobtain the degree by having relevantprofessional education and experience in onefield and combining it with a special 1-yearteacher training course. The degree certificatenormally mentions the specialisation, thesubjects passed and the marks and gradesobtained. The degree gives access toemployment and general eligibility fordoctoral studies.

Gymnasiets avgångsbetygCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: -betyget, -betygenLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Lukion päättötodistus.


H.Dip.Ed.Country: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Higher Diploma inEducation.

Habilitation à diriger des recherchesCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma attesting capacity to carry outoriginal high-level scientific research andsupervise young researchers. It is awarded tostudents who have obtained the � Doctoratqualification and have already publishedresearch work. The diploma mentions thespecialisation and gives students who pass thecompetitive selection examination access tothe profession as a university professor. Itreplaced the � Thèse d’État in 1994.

HauptschulabschlussCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Hauptschulabschluß,Hauptschulabschluss*Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:General education school-leavingqualification awarded after the ninth schoolyear by Hauptschulen as well as by othertypes of school in lower secondary education.Usually awarded on the basis of attainmentsin the ninth school year. It gives access tovocational training in the duales System, ayear of basic vocational training

(Berufsgrundbildungsjahr), or under certainconditions to a Berufsfachschule. It alsoconstitutes a prerequisite for admission toinstitutions providing secondary educationfor adults (Zweiter Bildungsweg) and tocertain Fachschulen after completion ofinitial vocational training. Synonym:Berufsbildungsreife/Berufsreife.

HFCountry: DenmarkLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note: Abbreviation of �Højere Forberedelseseksamen.

HHXCountry: DenmarkLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Højere Handelseksamen.

Higher (Higher Still)Country: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Upper secondary/post-secondaryExplanatory note:A 1-year qualification, which will be offeredunder the Higher Still reforms, and willreplace existing Highers at the same level.The first new Highers will be available in1999-2000. Highers are divided into unitswhich are internally assessed on the basis ofcoursework, but there is also an externalassessment which determines the grade on ascale A to C. Units can be taken separately.The basic content of Highers in individual

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subjects, including options, is specifiedcentrally. Highers will continue to be the basicqualification for entry to higher education,and can also lead to careers. The ScottishQualifications Authority (SQA) awards thequalification, carries out external assessmentsand moderates internal assessments.

Higher Diploma in EducationCountry: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Post-graduate qualification for secondaryschool teaching. This diploma is awarded byuniversities on the basis of examinations andpractical placements to students who alreadyhold a first degree taken over 3 or 4 years ofstudy. Abbreviation: H.Dip.Ed.

Higher National CertificateCountry: United KingdomLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:A sub-degree level, higher educationqualification awarded by the EdexcelFoundation (formely Business andTechnology Education Council) in England,Wales and Northern Ireland and by theScottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) inScotland to students who successfullycomplete vocational courses normally over 2years part-time in any of a wide range ofsubjects, such as business studies,management, engineering and design.Courses are unit-based and are provided inuniversities and other higher educationinstitutions. Assessment of students is decidedby individual institutions in accordance withassessment and quality criteria laid down byEdexcel (in Scotland, the SQA); it mayinclude a combination of examinations,continuous assessment and project work.While successful completion of the coursedoes not provide automatic access to furtherstudy or to a particular occupation, studentsmay progress to courses leading to themembership examinations of professionalbodies, to employment in a related sector or to� Bachelor’s degree courses (but this is notcommon). Successful students receive aHigher National Certificate which mentions

the area of study, e.g. business administration.This Certificate is accompanied by aCertificate of Achievement which mentionseach unit of study taken and whether a ‘pass’,‘merit’ or ‘distinction’ was gained.Abbreviations: HNC, BTEC HNC.

Higher National DiplomaCountry: United Kingdom Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:A sub-degree level, higher educationqualification awarded by the EdexcelFoundation (formerly Business andTechnology Education Council) in England,Wales and Northern Ireland and by theScottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) inScotland to students who successfullycomplete vocational courses of 2 years’ full-time study in any of a wide range of subjects,such as business studies, management,engineering and design. Courses are unit-based and are provided in universities andother higher education institutions. An HNDqualification requires more units of studythan a � Higher National Certificate.Assessment of students is decided byindividual institutions in accordance withassessment and quality criteria laid down byEdexcel (in Scotland, the SQA); it mayinclude a combination of examinations,continuous assessment and project work.While successful completion of the coursedoes not provide automatic access to furtherstudy, or to a particular occupation, studentsmay transfer to the appropriate level of a �Bachelor’s degree course, to courses leadingto the membership examinations ofprofessional bodies or to employment in arelated sector. Successful students receive aHigher National Diploma which mentions thearea of study, e.g. business administration.This Diploma is accompanied by a �Certificate of Achievement which mentionseach unit of study taken and whether a ‘pass’,‘merit’ or ‘distinction’ was gained.Abbreviations: HND, BTEC HND.

HNCCountry: United KingdomLevel of education: Higher


Explanatory note:Abbreviation of � Higher NationalCertificate.

HNDCountry: United KingdomLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Higher National Diploma.

HochschulprüfungCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants:Hochschulprüfungen, Hochschulprüfung*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination at the end of first degree courses(grundständige Studiengänge) or post-graduate studies (postgraduale Studiengänge)for which, contrary to the � Staatsprüfung,only the higher education institution where itis taken is competent and responsible. See �Diplomprüfung, � Magisterprüfung.

HögskoleexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:General degree, awarded after 2 years of full-time study. The studies can be pursued in allfaculties. The major field of study should beindicated in the degree certificate, and thesubjects passed and the marks and gradesobtained are also normally mentioned. Thereis no corresponding title.

HögskoleingenjörsexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Professional degree in the field ofengineering, awarded after a 2- or 3-yearprogramme of full-time study, which normallyincludes a degree project. The degreecertificate normally mentions the subjectspassed and the marks and grades obtained.The degrees give access to employment andthe 3-year degree gives general eligibility fordoctoral studies.

HøgskolekandidatCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification and title awarded to studentswho pass written and oral final examinationsat the end of non-university courses lasting 2to 3 years in Høgskole. This qualification canbe obtained in various fields of study. Theexaminations are set by each institution andassessed by two examiners, of whom one isexternal in order to avoid the possibility ofbias. The certificate mentions the student’sresults in the examinations and the average ofthe marks in the main subjects. It gives accessto employment or to other higher education.This certificate may constitute a part of the �Candidatus magisterii.

Højere ForberedelseseksamenCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants:Højere forberedelseseksamenerLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Higher preparatory examination taken oncompletion of upper secondary generaleducation lasting 2 years. Organised by theMinistry of Education. It includes written andoral examinations (the written ones set atnational level) in all of the compulsorycommon core subjects, including Danish,mathematics, a foreign language andsciences, optional subjects and a writtenassignment. This examination leads to theaward of the � Bevis for HøjereForberedelseseksamen.

Højere HandelseksamenCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Højere handelseksamenerLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Higher commercial examination taken oncompletion of upper secondary generaleducation lasting 3 years. Organised by theMinistry of Education. It includes written andoral examinations (the written ones set atnational level) in the presence of externalexaminers, as well as a major written


assignment. This examination leads to theaward of the � Bevis for HøjereHandelseksamen.

Højere Teknisk EksamenCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Højere tekniske eksamenerLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Higher technical examination taken oncompletion of upper secondary generaleducation lasting 3 years, organised by theMinistry of Education. It includes written andoral examinations (the written ones set atnational level) in the presence of externalexaminers, as well as a major writtenassignment. This examination leads to the awardof the � Bevis for Højere Teknisk Eksamen.

HovedfagkandidatCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded to students whopass written and oral final examinations andpresent a final dissertation at the end of a 2-year post-graduate non-university coursefollowing the � Candidatus magisteriicertificate. The examinations are set by eachinstitution and assessed by two examiners, ofwhom one is external in order to avoid thepossibility of bias. The certificate mentionsthe student’s results in the examinations, thesubject of the final dissertation and itsassessment. It gives access to employmentand/or to studies for a doctorate.

Høyere avdelings eksamenCountry: NorwayLevel of education: Higher

Explanatory note:Certificate awarded to students who passwritten and oral final examinations andsubmit a final dissertation at the end of a 2-year university course in businessmanagement following the � Siviløkonomqualification. The examinations are set byeach institution and assessed by twoexaminers, of whom one is external in orderto avoid the possibility of bias. The certificatementions the student’s results in the finalexaminations, the subject of the finaldissertation and its assessment. It givesaccess to employment and/or to studies for adoctorate.

Høyere revisoreksamenCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to students who hold a� Vitnemål (revisorutdanning) certificateand pass written and oral finalexaminations at the end of a 1½-yearuniversity course in auditing. Theexaminations are set by each institution andassessed by two examiners, of whom one isexternal in order to avoid the possibility ofbias. The certificate mentions the student’sresults in the examinations and the averageof the marks in the main subjects. It givesaccess to employment.

HTXCountry: DenmarkLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Højere Teknisk Eksamen.


IdrettskandidatCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded to students whohold a � Candidatus magisterii and pass afinal examination at the end of a 2-yearuniversity course in physical education. Theexamination consists of written and practicaltests relevant to the specialisation. Eachinstitution defines actual contents. Studentsare assessed by two examiners, of whom oneis external in order to avoid the possibility ofbias. The certificate mentions the student’sresults in the examinations and the average ofthe marks in the main subjects. It gives accessto employment and/or to a doctorate.

Ing.Country: Czech RepublicLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � In�enýr.

Ing.Country: The NetherlandsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Ingenieur.

Ing.Country: SlovakiaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � In�inier.

Ing.arch.Country: Czech RepublicLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � In�enýr in the field ofarchitecture.

Ing.arch.Country: SlovakiaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � In�inier in the field ofarchitecture.

Ingeniero (+ specialisation)Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Ingeniera,IngenierosLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree and title awarded to students whohave passed the examinations required underthe programme and taken a finalexamination (written report on a practicalproject) at the end of long-cycle universitystudies in engineering (5-6 years) in anEscuela Técnica Superior or Facultad. Theexaminations are organised by eachinstitution and cover each subject taken. Thecertificate mentions the specialisation. Itgives access to the profession and/or to a �Doctorado en. This degree corresponds tothe � Licenciatura en.

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Ingenierio Técnico (+ specialisation)Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Ingeniera Técnica,Ingenieros TécnicosLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree and title awarded to students whohave passed the examinations required underthe programme and taken a final examination(written report on a practical project) at theend of first-cycle university studies inengineering (3 years) in an EscuelaUniversitaria. The written and/or oralexaminations are organised by each teacherand cover each subject taken. The certificatementions the specialisation. It gives access tothe profession and/or to second-cycleuniversity studies. This degree corresponds tothe � Diplomatura en.

IngenieurCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Ingenieurin(nen),IngenieureLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Title conferred by the Ministry of EconomicAffairs on holders of the upper secondarytechnical and vocational school (5-year-course)� Reife- und Diplomprüfungszeugnis after 3years of relevant professional experience.

IngenieurCountry: Belgium (Flemish Community)Grammatical variants: IngenieursLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification and title awarded to studentswho successfully complete in accordance withthe programme a 3-year second cycle ofuniversity education in engineering,architecture, commerce and applied biologicalsciences or a 2-year Hogeschool course inindustrial and technological engineering. Theexaminations are written and/or oral (as theteacher decides) and cover all the subjectsstudied. The degree certificate indicates thename of the institution and the title of thediploma, while a supplement gives details ofthe subjects studied and the marks awarded. Itgives entry to the relevant profession and to

post-graduate studies. Depending on the fieldof study, the diploma and title are burgelijkingenieur (civil engineer), burgelijkingenieur-architect (architectural engineer),bio-ingenieur (agricultural engineer),industrieel ingenieur (industrial engineer),handelsingenieur (sales engineer).

IngenieurCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: IngenieursLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:• Title awarded by the agricultural university

and the technical universities on the basis ofthe � Getuigschrift van het afsluitendexamen to students who pass the finalexamination for a first degree in agriculture orengineering (in general, 210 credits,equivalent to 5 years of study). Theabbreviated title Ir. is placed before the name.In international contexts, all universitygraduates may adopt the title � Master. Theabbreviated title M. is placed after the name.

• Title awarded by higher professionaleducation institutions – hbo institutions(hogescholen) – to students who obtain the �Getuigschrift van het afsluitend examen inengineering or agriculture (in general, 168credits, equivalent to 4 years of study). Theabbreviated title Ing. is placed before thename. In international contexts, all hbo-graduates may adopt the title�Bachelor. Theabbreviated title B. is placed after the name.

Ingénieur Country: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title and qualification conferred on studentswho have passed the examinations requiredunder the programme of education (3-5 years)in a university or non-university highereducation institution. The examinations areset by each institution and vary for eachspecialisation. The qualification gives accessto the profession.

Ingénieur (+ specialisation)Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: Higher


Explanatory note:Degree and title awarded by universities orHautes Écoles at the end of 2 to 3 years ofsecond-cycle university education inengineering (after receiving the �

Candidature en) to students who have passedthe examinations set by the individualinstitution required under the programme ineach subject and submitted a finaldissertation. The certificate mentions thespecialisation, subjects taken, subject of thethesis written at the end of the programme andfinal mark awarded. It gives access toemployment, specialised higher education orpost-graduate education.The term Ingénieur is always followed by thename of the specialisation, e.g. ingénieurcivil, ingénieur agronome, ingénieur chimisteet des bio-industries, ingénieur de gestion(awarded by universities); and ingénieurcommercial, ingénieur industriel (awarded byHautes Écoles).

Ingénieur industrielCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded at the end of training lasting 4years, leading to the � Diplôme d’Ingénieurindustriel which replaces the title �Ingénieur technicien.

Ingénieur technicienCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded at the end of 3 years of training,leading to the � Diplôme d’Ingénieurtechnicien and recently replaced by the title� Ingénieur industriel.

Ingénieur-maîtreCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title conferred on students who have obtaineda � Maîtrise (Master’s) in an institutuniversitaire professionnalisé (IUP)(professional/vocational university institute).

Intermediate 1Country: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Upper secondary/post-secondaryExplanatory note:A 1-year qualification that will be offeredunder the Higher Still reforms, with the firstcourses beginning in 1999/2000. Intermediate1 is broadly equivalent in level to � ScottishCertificate of Education – Standard GradeFoundation level. Intermediate 1s are dividedinto units which are internally assessed on thebasis of coursework, but there is also anexternal assessment which determines thegrade on a scale A to C. Units can be takenseparately. The basic content of Intermediate1s in individual subjects, including options, isspecified centrally. These qualifications aresuitable for entry to training or a career, andstudents can also progress to Higher courses.The Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA)awards the qualification, carries out externalassessments and moderates internalassessments.

Intermediate 2Country: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Upper secondary/post-secondaryExplanatory note:A 1-year qualification that will be offeredunder the Higher Still reforms, with the firstcourses beginning in 1999-2000.Intermediate 2 is broadly equivalent to �Scottish Certificate of Education – StandardGrade General level. Intermediate 2s aredivided into units which are internallyassessed on the basis of coursework, but thereis also an external assessment whichdetermines the grade on a scale A to C. Unitscan be taken separately. The basic content ofIntermediate 2s in individual subjects,including options, is specified centrally.These qualifications are suitable for entry totraining or a career, and students can alsoprogress to Higher courses. The ScottishQualifications Authority (SQA) awards thequalification, carries out external assessmentsand moderates internal assessments.


In¿.Country: PolandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � In¿ynier.

In�enýr (+ field of study)Country: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants: In�enýøi, In�enýr*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe � Vysokoškolský diplom degree and the �Vysvìdèení o státní závìreèné zkou�ce

certificate in the field of technology,economics, agriculture, forestry or in amilitary academy. Abbreviations: Ing., andIng.arch. in the field of architecture.

In�inier (+ field of study)Country: SlovakiaGrammatical variants: In�inieri, In�inier*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe � Diplom in the fields of technology,agriculture, economics and architecture.Abbreviations: Ing., and Ing.arch. in the fieldof architecture.

In¿ynier

Country: PolandGrammatical variants:In¿ynierowie, In¿ynier*

Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe �Dyplom ukoñczenia studiów wy¿szych

qualification at the end of technical andeconomic and agricultural studies at highereducation level. Abbreviation: In¿.

Ir.Country: The NetherlandsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Ingenieur, awarded by auniversity, written before the name.

Izpit po teoria i praktika na profesiata(ИИззппиитт ппоо ттееоорриияя ии ппррааккттииккаа ннаа ппррооффеессиияяттаа)

Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants: Izpiti po teoria ipraktika na profesiataLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Official state examination of completion ofsecondary vocational and technical education,compulsory for obtaining the � Svidetelstvoza profesionalna kvalifikasia certificate,conferring the qualification � Rabotnik or �Technik. It includes both theoretical andpractical examinations attesting the theoreticaland practical knowledge of the trade oroccupation. These are organised by thevocational and technical upper secondaryschools following the regulations of theMinistry of Education and Science.


JUDr.Country: Czech Republic, SlovakiaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor in the field of law.

Junior CertificateCountry: IrelandLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification awarded to pupils who pass the� Junior Certificate examination taken at theend of compulsory education (end of 3 yearsof the Junior Cycle of lower secondaryeducation – age 15). The certificate indicatesthe subjects passed and the grades obtained inthe examination, ranging from A to F. It isrequired for entry to upper secondaryeducation. This is the minimum entry level forapprenticeship and to some unskilled workareas.

Junior Certificate examinationCountry: IrelandLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:National examination taken at the end ofcompulsory education (end of the 3 years ofthe junior cycle of secondary education - age15). Pupils may take this examination insubjects of their choice. Each subject is

examined individually by means of a writtenexamination and in some cases an oral,practical or project examination. Pupils whopass this examination obtain the � JuniorCertificate.

Junior Trade CertificateCountry: IrelandLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:The Junior Trades Examination taken byapprentices at the end of 2 years of a 4 yearapprenticeship is now being phased outbecause of the movement towards a standard-based rather than time-served model ofapprenticeship.

Juris kandidatexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Professional degree in the field of laws,awarded after a 4½-year programme of full-time study, which normally includes a degreeproject. The degree certificate normallymentions the subjects passed and the marksand grades obtained. The degree gives accessto employment and general eligibility fordoctoral studies. The corresponding title isjuris kandidat (jur. kand.).

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Kand.Country: The NetherlandsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Kandidaat.

KandidaatCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: KandidatenLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who pass the �Kandidaatsexamen. Abbreviation: Kand.

Kandidaat in de (+ specialisation)Country: Belgium (Flemish Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:A transitional qualification awarded to studentswho successfully complete a 2- or 3-year firstcycle of university or non-university highereducation. The examinations (written and/ororal as the teacher decides) are organised by theindividual institution and cover all the subjectsstudied. The degree certificate indicates thename of the institution and the title of thediploma, while a supplement gives details ofthe subjects studied and the marks awarded. Itgives students entry to the second cycle ofuniversity or non-university education.

Kandidaatin tutkintoCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: tutkinno-, tutkinto-,tutkinnotLevel of education: Higher

Explanatory note:Degree requiring 3 years of full-time study atuniversity. It can be taken in all fields, excepttechnology, architecture, medicine, dentistryand veterinary medicine. A Bachelor’s degreeconsists of basic and intermediate studies inone major subject (or degree programme),and studies in one or more minor subjects.Degrees are normally taken according tosubjects, but in some fields there are alsomultidisciplinary degree programmes.Swedish term: Kandidat examen.

KandidaatsexamenCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: KandidaatsexamensLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination in university courses having akandidaatsfase. The total study load of thekandidaatsfase and the propedeutische fase is126 credits. The kandidaatsexamen is a reviewof the students’ academic achievements to assesswhether or not all the requirements for theprogramme have been met. All the requirementshave been met if the student has successfullypassed all the interim-examinations (tentamens)as required in the teaching and examinationregulations. An examining board set up by theinstitution organises the examination. Theresponsibility for the way the examination isorganised and for the content of the examinationlies with the competent authority of theinstitution. Institutions are autonomous inorganising courses with a kandidaatsfase; thelaw requires only a minimum study load of

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126 credits. Institutions are not obliged to offer akandidaatsfase. Successful candidates maycontinue their university studies. Title awarded� Kandidaat.

KandidaattiCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants:Kandidaati-, Kandidaatti-, KandidaatitLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who hold the �Kandidaatin tutkinto degree. Swedish term:Kandidat.

KandidatCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants:Kandidaten, Kandidater, KandidaterneLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Synonym of � Candidatus.

KandidatCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants:Kandidaten, Kandidater, KandidaternaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Kandidaatti.

Kandidat Country: IcelandGrammatical variants: KandidataLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who pass the final �Kandidatspróf examination leading to the �Kandidatsgráda degree. Abbreviation: Cand.followed by the name of the specialisation inwhich it was obtained; e.g., cand. pharm. inthe field of pharmacy and cand. odont. in thefield of dentistry.

KandidatCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -en, -er, -ernaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title describing the holder of a �Kandidatexamen, normally with a prefixreferring either to the faculty or to the area of

academic study in which the degree wasobtained, e.g. filosofie kandidat, frequentlyused in its abbreviated form, e.g. fil.kand.

Kandidat (+ field of study)Country: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded to students whohold a � Candidatus magisterii or equivalentcertificate and pass written and oral finalexaminations at the end of a 1-year universitycourse in public health (folkehelsevitenskap),occupational health (arbeidshelse) or healthadministration (helseadministrasjon) or at theend of a 3-years course following the �Vitnemål in nursing. The examinations are setby each institution and assessed by twoexaminers, of whom one is external in order toavoid the possibility of bias. This qualificationgives access to employment. It is alwaysfollowed by the name of the field of studies inwhich it was awarded, for example kandidat ifolkehesevitenskap in the field of public health,kandidat i sykepleievitenskap in the field ofnursing or kandidat i heleseadminisstrasjon inthe field of health administration.

Kandidat examenCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Kandidaatin tutkinto.

Kandidat i musikkCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree and title awarded to students who passwritten, oral and practical final examinationsat the end of a 4-year university undergraduatemusic course. The examinations are set byeach institution and assessed by twoexaminers, of whom one is external in order toavoid the possibility of bias. The certificatementions the student’s results in theexaminations, the marks in the subjects takenand the average of the marks in the mainsubjects. It gives access to higher education inthe same field (� Diplomeksamen).


KandidatexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:General degree, awarded after 3 years of full-time study. The studies can be pursued in allfaculties. Half the programme comprisesstudies in one major subject, in which a thesisis written. The name of the degree referseither to the faculty, e.g. filosofiekandidatexamen (Bachelor of Arts), or to thearea of academic study, e.g. ekonomiekandidatexamen, in which it is obtained. Themajor field of study should be indicated in thedegree certificate, and the subjects passed andthe marks and grades obtained are normallymentioned. The degree gives generaleligibility for doctoral studies. Thecorresponding title is � Kandidat mentioningthe faculty or the area of academic study, e.g.fil. kand. (abbreviation of filosofie kandidat).

KandidatgradCountry: DenmarkLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Higher degree comparable to a Master’sdegree. Studies normally take 2 yearsfollowing the � Bachelorgrad. In fields inwhich the � Bachelorgrad is not part of thestudy programme, studies take 5½ years (inveterinary medicine) or 6½ years (inmedicine), of which one semester is devotedto producing a thesis on a specialist subject.There is not only one final examination at theend, but examinations in all the importantcourse subjects at the end of the teaching ofthe individual subjects. The degree mentionsthe marks obtained in the examinations, themark obtained in the written dissertation, thetitle and the field of specialisation. It confersthe title � Candidatus (+ field of study), e.g.cand.jur., cand.scient., and gives access tostudies leading to the � Ph.d.-grad.

KandidatsgrádaCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: KandidatsgráduLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:

Professional qualification awarded to studentswho have successfully completed a 4- to 6-yearcourse leading to a number of professionsincluding medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, law,engineering, divinity etc. and have passed thefinal � Kandidatspróf examination. It mentionsthe subjects and the results obtained in theexamination, as well as the specialisation. Thisdegree gives access to the relevant profession. Itconfers the title � Kandidat.

KandidatsprófCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: -prófi, -prófsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination held at the end of the final yearof 4- to 6-year courses of study for variousprofessions. It is compulsory for obtainingthe qualification � Kandidatsgráda,conferring the title � Kandidat. Its contentand the level of requirements depend on theindividual faculty. It includes a written and/ororal examination in one chosen subject and,in most cases, a final dissertation.

Kantonalprüfung Country: Belgium (German-speaking Com-munity)Grammatical variants: Kantonalprüfungen,Kantonalprüfung*Level of education: PrimaryExplanatory note:Optional examination at the end of primaryeducation lasting 6 years, provided under thesupervision of the Cantonal inspector forprimary education in the various Kantone(administrative districts). The examination isorganised for pupils who have not followedthe normal educational course. It includeswritten and oral sections in German, a firstforeign language and mathematics. Theresults can be taken into account in awardingan � Abschlusszeugnis der Grundschule.This examination will be replaced by anexamination before an examination boardexternal to the school beginning in the1999/2000 school year.


KaufmannsgehilfenbriefCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Kaufmannsgehilfen-briefe, Kaufmannsgehilfenbrief*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded at the end of vocationaltraining in the duales System certifyingsuccessful passage of the � Ausbildungs-abschlussprüfung in the commercial sectorbefore the authority responsible for vocationaltraining (chamber). It is always awarded alongwith an � Abschlusszeugnis der Berufsschule.It qualifies for an occupation and constitutes aprerequisite for further qualification as a masterand further vocational training in a Fachschule.

Kirchliche AbschlussprüfungCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants:Kirchliche Abschlußprüfung, KirchlicheAbschlussprüfungen, Kirchlich* Abschluss-prüfung*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:• Final examination in first degree courses

(grundständige Studiengänge) in Catholictheology for candidates for the priesthood.In addition to higher education teachersrepresentatives of the Catholic Church arealso members of the examination board.This examination is a prerequisite foraccess to the Lizenziat, a course whichleads to the academic degree of Lizenziatder Theologie (Lic. theol.).

• Final examination in first degree courses(grundständige Studiengänge) in Protestanttheology as a prerequisite for entry intoservice in the Church. Members of theexamination board are representatives of theProtestant Church and higher education tea-chers. In addition to this examination, thereare other examinations that may be taken atthe end of first degree courses (grundständigeStudiengänge) in Protestant theology. See � Theologische Abschlussprüfung.

Kolokwium habilitacyjneCountry: PolandGrammatical variants: Kolokwiahabilitacyjne, Kolokwi* habilitacyjn*

Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Oral examination which leads to thequalification certifying the highest academicdegree � Dyplom doktora habilitowanego,conferring the title � Doktor habilitowany. Itis aimed at students who have alreadyobtained the �Dyplom doktora qualification.It consists of the defence of a thesis, approvedin advance by two experts in the field, andpresented after several years of research. Theresult of this examination is decided by asecret ballot of the members of the examiningboard and approved by the CentralCommission for Academic Titles andAcademic Degrees.

KommunalkandidatCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded to students whopass written and oral final examinations at theend of a 3-year non-university course in localadministration. The examinations are set byeach institution and assessed by twoexaminers, of whom one is external in orderto avoid the possibility of bias. The certificatementions the student’s results in theexaminations and the average of the marks inthe main subjects. It gives access toemployment or to other higher education.This certificate can constitute part of the �Candidatus magisterii certificate.

KonservatorCountry: DenmarkLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who obtain the �Konservatorgrad.

KonservatorgradCountry: DenmarkLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded by the Royal Academy ofFine Arts to students who successfullycomplete studies lasting 5 years in the field ofconservation. The final examination consistsof the defence of a project before an external


examining board. The degree certificatementions only the student’s specialisation andconfers the title � Konservator. It givesaccess to studies leading to the � Ph.d.-gradand to employment as a conservator of worksof art, historical objects etc.

Konstnärlig högskoleexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Professional degree awarded after a universityprogramme (within Fine Arts) of full-timestudy of at least 2 years, in most cases 4 to 5years. The degree gives access to employment.

KonzertexamenCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: KonzertexaminaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Final examination in post-graduate studies(postgraduale Studiengänge) at a Musikhoch-schule. A � Künstlerische Abschlussprüfung ora künstlerisches Diplom with particularlyoutstanding marks and an entrance examinationor aptitude test are usually prerequisites foradmission to this course.

Konzertreife/SolistenreifeCountry: GermanyLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination taken by students admitted topost-graduate studies (postgraduale Studien-gänge) in music on the basis of particularlyoutstanding marks in the � KünstlerischeAbschlussprüfung at the end of first degreecourses at a Musikhochschule.

KunstfagkandidatCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded to students whopass final examinations at the end of a 1½

year non-university course in the artsfollowing the � Vitnemål degree in the arts.

Kunstfaglig utdanningCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to students who passwritten and oral final examinations at the endof a 4-year university and non-universitycourse in music and the arts. Theexaminations are set by each institution andassessed by two examiners, of whom one isexternal in order to avoid the possibility ofbias. The certificate mentions the student’sresults in the subjects taken and the averageof the marks in the main subjects. It givesaccess to employment.

Künstlerische AbschlussprüfungCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: KünstlerischeAbschlußprüfung, Künstlerische Abschluss-prüfungen, Künstlerisch* Abschlussprüfung*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Final examination at a Musik- or Kunsthoch-schule at the end of first degree courses (grund-ständige Studiengänge) leading to a firstprofessional qualification. This course of studiesusually leads to the award of a � Diplom.

Künstlerische ReifeprüfungCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Künstlerische Reifeprüfungen, Künstlerisch* Reifeprüfung*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:This examination leads to the final qualificati-on at the end of a post-graduate course of arti-stic training at a Musikhochschule. It attests tospecial abilities as a performer or outstandingartistic skills in a specific field. A � Diplom-prüfung in first degree courses (grundständigeStudiengänge) and an aptitude test constituteprerequisites for this examination.


LäkarexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Professional degree in the field of medicine,awarded after a 5½-year programme of full-time study, which normally includes a degreeproject. The degree certificate normallymentions the subjects passed and the marksand grades obtained. The degree gives accessto employment and general eligibility fordoctoral studies.

LantmästarexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Professional degree in the field of agricultureand rural management, awarded after a 2-yearprogramme of full-time study, including adegree project. The degree certificatementions the subjects passed. The degreegives access to employment.

LaureaCountry: ItalyLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Standard name of the � Diploma di Laurea.

LaureatoCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Laureata, Laureati,LaureateLevel of education: Higher

Explanatory note:Standard name of the � Dottore in (+ field ofstudy).

Leaving CertificateCountry: IrelandLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who pass the �Leaving Certificate examination following a 2-year course of upper secondary education(Senior Cycle). This certificate offers a route toemployment or to further education. It is also abasic entrance qualification to certain highereducation institutions, including universities,and an entrance test for a range of professions.There are three certificates, the LeavingCertificate, the Leaving Certificate VocationalProgramme (LCVP) and the Leaving CertificateApplied (LCA). Leaving Certificate candidatesnormally present in seven subjects, the results ofwhich are graded A1, A2, B1, B2, C1-C3, D1-D3, E and F and NG (no grade). In the LCVP,candidates usually take a test in three linkedmodular areas in lieu of a subject. The LCA is amodular examination based on 100 creditswhich can be acquired by satisfactoryattendance and completion of certainassignments lasting over 2 years and a series ofwritten/oral and practical performance tests.

Leaving Certificate examinationCountry: IrelandLevel of education: Upper secondary

L l


Explanatory note:Examination normally taken at the end of a 2-year course of upper secondary education(Senior Cycle). Subjects are examinedindividually by means of written examinationsand pupils must take at least five subjectsincluding Irish. Those who pass thisexamination obtain the � Leaving Certificate.

LehrabschlussprüfungCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Lehrabschlußprüfung, Lehrabschlussprüfungen,Lehrabschlussprüfung*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Examination leading to the � Lehrabschluss-prüfungszeugnis taken by apprentices at the endof 2 to 4 years of vocational training under theduales System at the end of their period in a firm.The examination is organised by the apprenticetraining centres in the various Provinces andincludes theoretical and practical parts. It is takenbefore an examining board comprising represen-tatives of employers and employees. Apprenticeswho have an � Abschlusszeugnis der Berufs-schule are exempt from the theoretical part of theexamination.

LehrabschlussprüfungCountry: LiechtensteinGrammatical variants: Lehrabschluss-prüfungen, Lehrabschlussprüfung*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Compulsory final examination, organised inSwitzerland by the regional authorities inschools of upper secondary vocational education(lasting 3 or 4 years) and leading to thecertificate � Lehrbrief. It includes theoreticaland practical tests covering the trade oroccupation as well as general knowledge tests.

LehrabschlussprüfungszeugnisCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Lehrabschluß-prüfungszeugnis, Lehrabschlussprüfungs-zeugnisse, Lehrabschlussprüfungszeugnis*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to apprentices who pass the� Lehrabschlussprüfung at the end of the

workplace part of their vocational trainingunder the duales System. The vocationalbranch (specialisation) is mentioned. It is avocational qualification in the relevant branch.

Lehramts- und Befähigungsprüfung für denland- und forstwirtschaftlichen Lehr-,Beratungs- und Förderungsdienst

Country: AustriaGrammatical variants: Lehramts- und Befähigungsprüfungen, Lehramts- und Befähigungsprüfung*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Compulsory final examination taken bystudents after a minimum of 3 years of studyin non-university courses at an agricultural orforestry teacher training college. It isorganised internally and held before a board,and covers both written and oral preliminaryexaminations held during the course andwritten and oral final examinations.Successful students are awarded the �Lehramts- und Befähigungsprüfungszeugnis.

Lehramts- und BefähigungsprüfungszeugnisCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Lehramts- und Befähigungsprüfungszeugnisse,Lehramts- und Befähigungsprüfungszeugnis*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded to students who passthe � Lehramts- und Befähigungsprüfung fürden land- und forstwirtschaftlichen Lehr-,Beratungs- und Förderungsdienst. It entitlesholders to occupy posts as agriculture andforestry teachers and in advisory andpromotion services.

LehramtsprüfungCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Lehramtsprüfungen,Lehramtsprüfung*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Compulsory final examination taken by stu-dents after a minimum of 3 years of study atPädagogische Akademien and Berufspädago-gische Akademien. Organised internally andwith an examining board. Includes written


and oral examinations in both the humanitiesand professional subjects/didactics. Success-ful students are awarded the � Lehramts-prüfungszeugnis (teaching qualification).

LehramtsprüfungszeugnisCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Lehramtsprüfungs-zeugnisse, Lehramtsprüfungszeugnis*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Final qualification awarded to students whopass the � Lehramtsprüfung after a minimumof 3 years of study at Pädagogische Akademienand Berufspädagogische Akademien. Thefield of study is indicated, and the certificategives access to a specific area of teaching.

LehrbriefCountry: LiechtensteinGrammatical variants: Lehrbriefe, Lehrbrief*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Vocational proficiency certificate, awarded topupils who pass the final examination �Lehrabschlussprüfung of the Office forVocational Training at the end of theirapprenticeship. It mentions solely thespecialisation. It gives access to employment.

Lekarz (+ field of study)Country: PolandGrammatical variants: Lekarze, Lekarz*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe � Dyplom ukoñczenia studiówwy¿szych qualification in medicine orveterinary medicine (lekarz weterynarii). Thetitle is accompanied by the name of thespecialisation in which it was obtained.

Lic. (+ abbreviation of the field of study)Country: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Licentiatus followed bythe name of the field of study in theabbreviated form, for example lic.philol. inarts subjects and lic.juris. in the field of law.

LicenceCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded to students who pass thefinal examinations organised at the end of oneyear of university education following the �Diplôme d’études universitaires générales.The oral and written final examinations areset by each institution and cover the subjectsstudied. The certificate mentions the majorfield. The degree gives access to educationleading to a � Maîtrise (Master’s) or toemployment and confers the title �Licencié(e) en (+ specialisation).

Licence en (+ specialisation)Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded at the end of 2 or 3 years ofsecond-cycle university or long-type non-university education (after the � Candi-dature en) to students who have passed theexaminations set by the individual institutionand required under the programme in eachsubject and submitted a final dissertation(mémoire). The certificate mentions thesubjects taken and final mark awarded. Itconfers the title � Licencié(e) en followed bythe name of the specialisation, and givesaccess to the relevant profession and tospecialised or post-graduate education. Untilthe recent reform of university education, anumber of post-graduate certificates werecalled licence spéciale; today, only thelicence en notariat remains. This is acertificate of post-graduate education lasting1 year after the licence in Law.

Licenciaat in de (+ specialisation)Country: Belgium (Flemish Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded to students whosuccessfully complete a 2- or 3-year secondcycle of university or non-university highereducation. The final examination comprisesexaminations in all the subjects studied and(except in courses in law) the submission of afinal dissertation on the main specialised


subject. The diploma indicates the field ofstudy, for example licentiaat in de scheikundein chemistry. It gives entry to the professionand/or to further specialised studies.

LicenciadoCountry: PortugalGrammatical variants: LicenciadosLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe degree � Licenciatura.

Licenciado en (+ specialisation)Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Licenciada en, Licenciados enLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe degree � Licenciatura en. It is alwaysfollowed by the name of the specialisation.

Licenciát teologieCountry: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants: Licenciáti teologie,Licenciát* teologieLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe � Vysokoškolský diplom degree, and the� Vysvìdèení o státní rigorózní zkou�cecertificate in the field of Catholic theology.Abbreviation: ThLic.

LicenciatgradCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: -graden, -grader,-graderneLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Former term for the � Ph.d.-grad until 1988.

LicenciaturaCountry: PortugalGrammatical variants: LicenciaturasLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded by university and polytechnichigher education institutions at the end of aspecific course (usually of 4 to 6 years’ duration)attesting to a sound scientific, academic or

cultural education providing in-depthknowledge aimed at specialisation in a givenfield or sufficient for entry to a profession. It isawarded on the basis of the student’sparticipation and semester and annualexamination results in all subjects. The form ofthe certificate varies from one institution to theother but always indicates the subject area andthe qualification or classification awarded. Itconfers the title � Licenciado. Students maygenerally proceed to undertake further study forthe � Carta Magistral degree or the � CartaDoutoral degree if they obtain respectively atleast 14 (Bom) or 16 (Muito Bom) out of 20 inthe final classification.

Licenciatura en (+ specialisation)Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Licenciaturas enLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded at the end of university studieslasting 4 or 5 years (6 years in medicine),generally in a Facultad, to students who havepassed the examinations required under theprogramme. The examinations are writtenand/or oral and cover each subject taken. Itconfers the title � Licenciado en. The certificatementions the specialisation. It gives access to theprofession and/or to a � Doctorado en.

Licencié(e) en (+ specialisation)Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have receivedthe � Licence en (+ specialisation). It isalways followed by the name of the field ofstudy in which it was awarded.

Licencié(e) en (+ specialisation)Country: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title conferred on students who haveobtained the degree � Licence.

LicencjatCountry: PolandGrammatical variants: Licencjaci, Licencjat*Level of education: Higher


Explanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe � Dyplom ukoñczenia studiów wy¿szychqualification at the end of short-termuniversity education in the field of human ornatural sciences, economic sciences, physicaleducation, tourism or certain medicalspecialisations.

LicentiatCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants:Licentiaten, Licentiater, LicentiaternaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Lisensiaatti.

LicentiatCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -en, -er, -ernaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title describing the holder of a �Licentiatexamen, normally with a prefixreferring either to the faculty or to the area ofacademic study, in which the degree wasobtained, e.g. filosofie licentiat, frequentlyused in its abbreviated form, e.g. fil.lic.

LicenþiatCountry: RomaniaGrammatical variants: LicenþiaþiLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title conferred to students who have passedthe examination � Examenul de licenþã andobtained the qualification � Diploma delicenþã.

Licentiat examen Country: FinlandGrammatical variants: examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Lisensiaatintutkinto.

LicentiatexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree obtained after 2 years of full-timepost-graduate studies. The degree includes the

writing of a dissertation. Licentiate studiescan be pursued in all faculties. The name ofthe degree refers either to the faculty or to thearea of academic study in which it isobtained, e.g. filosofie licentiat examen(Licenciate in Philosophy). The degreecertificate normally mentions thespecialisation and the title of the licentiatethesis. The corresponding title is � Licentiat.A � Licentiat may also continue doctoralstudies and obtain a � Doktorsexamen after 2more years.

Licentiatus (+ field of study)Country: NorwayGrammatical variants: LicentiataLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded very rarely tostudents who pass final written and oralexaminations at the end of studies lasting1½ years in between � Candidatus and �Doctor in the fields of law or odontology.

LisensiaatintutkintoCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: tutkinno-, tutkinto-,tutkinnotLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:• In fields other than medicine, dentistry

and veterinary medicine, an optional pre-doctoral degree taken after the Mas-ter’s degree � Maisterin tutkinto. Full-time study for the Lisensiaatintutkintolasts about 2 years. To obtain the degree,students prepare a Licentiate’s thesis,which is publicly disputed and assessedby two or more impartial examinersappointed by the university or faculty.

• A Licentiate’s degree may also includespecialist education in the field ofpsychology. In this case, the length of thestudies is about 4 years.

• In the fields of medicine, dentistry andveterinary medicine, a higher academicdegree (comparable to the Master’s degree� Maisterin tutkinto in the other fields)requiring 5 to 6 years of full-time study. Toobtain the degree, students prepare athesis, which is assessed by two or more


impartial examiners appointed by theuniversity or faculty. Swedish term:Licentiat examen.

LisensiaattiCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants:Lisensiaati-, Lisensiaatti-, LisensiaatitLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who hold the �Lisensiaatintutkinto degree. Swedish term:Licentiat.

Lukion päättötodistusCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: todistukse-, todistuksetLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate awarded to pupils who havecompleted the 3-year upper secondary generalschool (lukio/gymnasium). There is no finalexamination but pupils are continuouslyassessed. The certificate indicates thecompulsory and optional subjects taken and themarks obtained in them. It is a basic qualificationfor taking the � Ylioppilastutkinto. Swedishterm: Gymnasiets avgångsbetyg.


M.Country: The NetherlandsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Master, written after thename. The abbreviation may be followed byletters indicating the field of study.

M. Phil.Country: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Master of in the field ofphilosophy.

M. Sc.Country: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Master of in the field ofscience.

MACountry: IcelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Master of Arts/Magisterartium in arts subjects � Magister.

MACountry: LiechtensteinLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Magister Artium.

MACountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of �Master of in the field of arts.

MACountry: United KingdomLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Master of Arts. See �Master’s degree.

Maestro (+ specialisation)Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Maestra, MaestrosLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree and title awarded at the end of firstcycle university studies (3 years) in anEscuela Universitaria or Facultad to studentswho have passed the examinations requiredunder the programme. The examinations arewritten and/or oral and cover each subjecttaken. The certificate mentions thespecialisation. It gives access to theprofession as a teacher at pre-primary andprimary level and to some second cycleuniversity studies. This degree corresponds tothe � Diplomatura en.

Maestro d’arteCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: Maestri d’arteLevel of education: Upper secondary

Mm


Explanatory note:Title conferred on pupils who have obtainedthe � Diploma di maestro d’arte.

Mag. (+ field of study)Country: AustriaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Magister, followed by thedesignation of the field of study in theabbreviated form, e.g. Mag.phil. Titlesawarded by Fachhochschulen are followed bythe abbreviation FH.

Mag. artCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Magister artium.

Mag.art. or mag.scient.Country: DenmarkLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Magister Artium orMagister Scientiarum.

MagisterCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: Magistern, Magistrar, MagistrarnaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Maisteri.

MagisterCountry: GermanyLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who pass the �Magisterprüfung.

MagisterCountry: IcelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who pass theMeistarapróf examination and obtain the �Meistaragráda degree. This title is used withthe name of the specialisation in which it wasobtained. The abbreviations of this title varydepending on the specialisation: in the field ofarts and social sciences and theology the

abbreviation is MA; in the field of economics,management, administration, medicine andengineering it is MS; and in the field ofeducational sciences it is MEd or MPaed(Magister Paedagogiae).

MagisterCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants:-n, Magistrar, MagistrarnaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title describing the holder of a �Magisterexamen, normally with a prefixreferring either to the faculty or to the area ofacademic study, in which the degree wasobtained, e.g. filosofie magister, frequentlyused in the abbreviated form, e.g. fil.mag.

Magister (+ field of study)Country: AustriaGrammatical variants: MagistraLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Academic title of holders of the � Diplom-prüfungszeugnis. It is followed by an indica-tion of the field of study (e.g. Magister philo-sophiae). Titles awarded by Fachhochschu-len are followed by the abbreviation FH.Abbreviation: Mag. + abbreviation of thefield of study (e.g. Mag.phil.).

Magister (+ field of study)Country: PolandGrammatical variants: Magistrowie, Magistr*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe �Dyplom ukoñczenia studiów wy¿szych

qualification at the end of long-termuniversity education. This title is magisteredukacji in educational sciences; magister

in¿ynier in the faculties of technology,economics, agriculture; magister sztuki in artacademies; and magister in¿ynier architekt

in the field of architecture. Abbreviations:Mgr and in the technology field Mgr in¿.

Magister (+ field of study)Country: SlovakiaGrammatical variants: Magisteri,Magister*


Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe � Diplom in the fields of human sciencesand arts. Abbreviations: Mgr and Mgr.art inthe field of arts.

Magister ArtiumCountry: DenmarkLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who obtain the �Magistergrad.

Magister ArtiumCountry: LiechtensteinLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded by the Internationale Akademiefür Philosophie (IAP) to students who pass the� Magisterprüfung in philosophy.Abbreviation: MA.

Magister artiumCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded to students whopass final examinations and present a thesis atthe end of university studies lasting 6½ to 7years. Each institution sets its own written andoral examinations which are assessed by twoexaminers, of whom one is external to avoidthe possibility of bias. The certificatementions the student’s results in theexaminations, the average of the marks in themain subjects, the subject of the thesis and itsassessment. It gives access to employmentand/or to a doctorate. Abbreviation: Mag.art.

Magister examenCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Maisterin tutkinto.

Magistère Country: FranceLevel of education: Higher

Explanatory note:Degree awarded to students who hold a �Diplôme d’études universitaires générales or� Diplôme universitaire de technologie andwho have passed the final examinations set atthe end of further university studies (3 years).The oral and written examinations are set byeach institution and cover the subjectsstudied. The certificate mentions thespecialisation and gives access to third-cycleuniversity education or to employment.

MagisterexamenCountry: LiechtensteinLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Synonym of � Magisterprüfung.

MagisterexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:General degree, awarded after either 1 year afterthe � Kandidatexamen or 4 years of full-timestudy, a total of 160 credit points of which 80 inthe major subject, including one major thesis of20 or two theses of 10 credit points. Studies canbe pursued in all faculties. The name of thedegree refers either to the faculty, e.g. filosofiemagisterexamen (Master of Arts), or to the areaof academic study in which it is obtained. Themajor field of study should be indicated in thedegree certificate, and the subjects passed andthe marks and grades obtained are normallymentioned. The degree gives general eligibilityfor doctoral studies. The corresponding title is� Magister mentioning the faculty or the areaof academic study, e.g. fil.mag. (abbreviation offilosofie magister).

MagistergradCountry: DenmarkLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded in one subject (3 years forthe � Bachelorgrad + 3 years of in-depthstudies in the same subject). There is not onlyone final examination at the end, butexaminations taken throughout the studies atthe end of the teaching of the individual


subjects. The degree mentions the marksobtained in the examination, credits obtainedfrom any other examinations and the titleawarded. It confers the title � MagisterArtium or Magister Scientiarum (no longerawarded) and gives access to studies lasting2 years leading to the � Ph.d.-grad.

MagistergradCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Magistergrade, Magistergrad*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Academic degree awarded to students whopass the � Magisterprüfung. The full title isMagister Artium or Magistra Artium (M.A.).The Magistergrad can also be awarded at theend of post-graduate studies in which furtheracademic or vocational qualifications can betaken and knowledge obtained from study orwork given greater academic depth.

MagisterprüfungCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Magisterprüfungen,Magisterprüfung*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Final examination in the humanities at auniversity or equivalent higher educationinstitution or in art or music at a Kunst- orMusikhochschule. The course usually takes 4or 4½ years and completion of a master’sdissertation (Magisterarbeit) is a prerequisite.The examination consists of specialised oraland written examinations and the title �Magister is conferred on successful students.Those who are particularly successful mayproceed to the � Promotion.

MagisterprüfungCountry: LiechtensteinGrammatical variants: Magisterprüfungen,Magisterprüfung*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Final examination taken at the InternationaleAkademie für Philosophie (IAP) at the end ofa 2-year main course of study (Hauptstudium)in philosophy. The examination includes both

written and oral examinations in philosophyand the preparation of a dissertation. There isno final certificate. Graduates receive arecord of their attainments but this has nospecific name. Successful candidates obtainthe title �Magister Artium. The examinationrequirements and content are set by theAcademy. Successful students are entitled toproceed to further study in philosophy.Synonym: Magisterexamen.

Magistr (+ field of study)Country: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants: Magistøi, Magistr*

Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe � Vysokoškolský diplom degree and the �Vysvìdèení o státní závìreèné zkou�ce

certificate at universities or in art academies.Abbreviation: Mgr. and MgA. in art academies.

Magistur ((ММааггииссттъърр))Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants: MagistriLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe � Diploma za zavurchena stepen navischeto obrazovanie qualification.

MaisteriCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: Maisteri-, MaisteritLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who hold the �Maisterin tutkinto degree. Swedish term:Magister.

Maisterin tutkintoCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: tutkinno-, tutkinto-,tutkinnotLevel of education: Higher Explanatory note:Master’s degree – higher academic degree,requiring 5 years of full-time study (or 2 yearsafter Bachelor’s degree � Kandidaatintutkinto) at university. In the Theatre Academy,some Master’s degrees can be completed in 4years. The Master’s degree exists in almost all


fields, except in medicine, dentistry orveterinary medicine, where only a higheracademic degree � Lisensiaatintutkinto can betaken. Master’s degree students must completeadvanced studies which usually include studiesin one major subject and in one or more minorsubjects. To obtain the degree, students preparea Master’s thesis, which is assessed by two ormore impartial examiners appointed by theuniversity or faculty. In art academies, the thesiscan also be an artistic product, performance orstudy. Swedish term: Maisteri.

Maître en (+ specialisation)Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have receivedthe � Maîtrise en (+ specialisation). It isalways followed by the name of the field ofstudy in which it was awarded.

MaîtriseCountry: LuxembourgLevel of education: Post- secondaryExplanatory note:Synonym of � Brevet de Maîtrise.

Maîtrise (+ specialisation)Country: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded to students who have alreadybeen awarded the � Licence and who havedefended a final dissertation (mémoire) andhave passed the examinations at the end of lastyear of second cycle of university studies. Theexaminations are set by each institution andcover the subjects studied. The certificatementions the field of study and gives access tofurther post-graduate university studies and toemployment. The qualification awarded ininstituts universitaires professionnalisés(IUP) confers the title � Ingénieur-maître.

Maîtrise en (+ specialisation)Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded at the end of 3 years ofsecond-cycle university education after the �Candidature en to students who have passed the

examinations set by the individual institutionand required under the programme in eachsubject and submitted a final dissertation(mémoire). The certificate mentions the fieldof study, subjects taken, subject of themémoire and final mark awarded. The degreeis awarded in the fields of economics, appliedeconomics and computer sciences andconfers the title � Maître en followed by thename of the field in which it was awarded.The degree gives access to the relevantprofession and to post-graduate education.

Maritim kandidatCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded to students whopass written and oral final examinations at theend of university maritime studies lasting 2½years (after 3 years of study in Hogskøle).The examinations are set by each institutionand assessed by two examiners, of whom oneis external in order to avoid the possibility ofbias. The certificate mentions the student’sresults in the examinations and the average ofthe marks in the main subjects. It gives accessto employment and/or to a doctorate.

MasterCountry: GermanyLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Higher education degree that will be available inthe future to students who successfully completea post-graduate course at a university,Fachhochschule or other institution of highereducation following a standard period of studyof at least 1 year and at most 2 years. Theminimum period of study laid down is in theinterest of quality assurance. Master’s courseshave been introduced on a pilot basis in a largenumber of higher education institutions since thebeginning of the 1990s.

MasterCountry: The NetherlandsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title used by all university graduates ininternational contexts, abbreviated to M. and


written after the name. The abbreviation maybe followed by letters indicating the field ofstudy. Title used for the titles � Doctorandus,� Ingenieur, � Meester.

MasterCountry: RomaniaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title conferred on students who have obtainedthe qualification � Diplomã de studii

aprofundate de Master.

Master of (+ field of study)Country: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded to students who passwritten and oral final examinations at the end ofuniversity or non-university studies taking from1 to 2 years. The examinations are set by eachinstitution and assessed by two examiners, ofwhom one is external in order to avoid thepossibility of bias. The certificate mentions thestudent’s results in the examinations and theaverage of the marks in the main subjects. Itgives access to employment and/or to studies fora doctorate. It can by obtained in the field of arts(abbreviation: MA), business administration(abbreviation: MBA), international business(abbreviation: MIB), philosophy (abbreviation:M.Phil.), science (abbreviation: M.Sc.) andtechnology management.

Master of (+ specialisation)Country: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who hold the �Master’s degree. The title mentions the area ofstudies, e.g. Master of Arts.

Master’s degree Country: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:A higher degree awarded by the universitiesand the National Council for EducationalAwards on the basis of 1 to 3 years’ coursework and examination, research or acombination of both following the �

Bachelor’s degree (generally with honours).Students in general have to complete adissertation and/or pass a writtenexamination. Additional practical or oralexaminations may be held in some cases.Successful candidates are awarded the title �Master of (+ specialisation or field of study).

Master’s degreeCountry: United KingdomLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Usually a higher academic degree, takengenerally in 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time, awarded to graduates who successfullycomplete specialised post-graduate study,either taught courses or individual research ora combination of both. A taught Master’sdegree is awarded on the basis of either writtenexaminations or continuous assessment andrequires a dissertation or short thesis, while aresearch Master’s degree requires research andthe presentation of a thesis. The thesis isusually examined by a panel of examiners andthe student may subsequently undergo an oralexamination conducted by the examiners.Master’s degrees may be graded, according tothe institution concerned. Degrees aredesignated Master of Arts, Laws, Science etc.according to the field of study.The form of degree certificates variesaccording to the awarding institution butgenerally indicates the area of specialisation.Successful candidates may proceed to furtherspecialised research for a � Doctorate.Abbreviations: MA, LL M, MSc.In the ancient Scottish Universities, the MA isa first degree comparable to the BA awardedelsewhere. In other institutions and elsewherein the United Kingdom, the Master’s degreeis awarded for other types of programme suchas the fourth year (or, in Scotland, the fifthyear) of a first degree programme whichcovers advanced undergraduate work and forpost-graduate conversion courses(programmes which allow graduates in onediscipline to gain a qualification in a differentfield and where the standard may notnecessarily be higher than that of anundergraduate programme in the samesubject).


MaturaCountry: LiechtensteinLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Synonym of � Maturaprüfung.

MaturaCountry: PolandGrammatical variants: Matury, Matur*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Synonym of � Egzamin dojrza³o�ci.

MaturaprüfungCountry: LiechtensteinGrammatical variants: Maturaprüfungen,Maturaprüfung*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Final examination, organised at national levelin schools of upper secondary generaleducation (Gymnasium of type B – 8 years, ortype E – 5 years), which is compulsory toobtain the certificate � Maturazeugnis. In theB stream, it includes written and oralexaminations in German, Latin, French, andmathematics, a written examination in Englishand an oral test to be chosen from physics,chemistry, biology, geography, history andEnglish. In the E stream, the examination issimilar to that for the B stream, but the Latinexamination is replaced by written and oralexaminations in economics. Its content is setby the school. Synonym: Matura.

MaturazeugnisCountry: LiechtensteinGrammatical variants: Maturazeugnisse,Maturazeugnis*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of upper secondarygeneral education, issued by the Gymnasium,to pupils who pass the � Maturaprüfung. Itmentions the specialisation, the subjectspassed and the examination results. Thiscertificate is recognised by Switzerland,Austria and certain German Länder. It givesaccess (without entrance examination) tohigher education in these countries.

Maturitná skúškaCountry: SlovakiaGrammatical variants: Maturitné* skúšky,Maturitná skúška*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Final examination organised in institutions ofupper secondary general, specialised andvocational education lasting 4 years.Successful pupils receive the school leavingcertificate � Vysvedèenie o maturitnej

skú�ke. The content of this examination is setby the examining board and approved by theschool head. In schools of general education(Gymnázium), it includes written and oralexaminations covering Slovak language andliterature, an oral examination in mathematicsor in a foreign language and two optionalsubjects. In schools of vocational andspecialised education (Stredná odborná školaand Stredné odborné uèili�te), it includeswritten and oral examinations in Slovaklanguage and literature and the subjects of thespecialisation, plus an oral examination in anoptional subject. The examinations in thespecialisation subjects also may include apractical part. It is also organised following 2years of supplementary courses for pupilswho have passed the examination �Závereèna skú�ka.

Maturitní zkouškaCountry: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants: Maturitní zkoušky,Maturitní* zkouš*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Compulsory final examination held at the end ofthe final year of upper secondary general,technical and vocational education lasting 4years. Successful pupils receive the �Vysvìdèení o maturitní zkou�ce certificate. Theexaminations are determined by each institutionand differ depending on the type of school. In theupper secondary general school, it includesexaminations (written and oral) in Czechlanguage and literature and in one foreignlanguage, as well as in two optional subjects,depending on the pupil’s specialisation.In upper secondary technical or vocationalschools, it includes a written and oral


examination in Czech language and literature,a single oral examination and a choice ofspecial subject, plus a practical test intechnical or vocational subjects. It is possible to sit the examination afterhaving finished 2 years of extension courses(nástavbové studium) for which the contentand method of organisation are like those inupper secondary vocational or technicalschools.In upper secondary artistic schools, added tothe compulsory examination on Czechlanguage and literature and one foreignlanguage, is the history of art and culture, aswell as the special subject.This examination is evaluated by a committeewhose chairman is appointed by the localeducation authorities, and the members by thehead of the educational institution.

MBACountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Master of in the field ofBusiness Administration.

MEdCountry: IcelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Master of Education/Magister Educationis in the field ofeducational sciences. See � Magister.

MeesterCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: MeestersLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title obtained by students who pass the finalexamination of a first degree university coursein law, leading to the � Getuigschrift van hetafsluitend examen. The study load is 168credits (in practice, 4 years of study). Theabbreviated title � Mr. is placed before thename. Internationally, all university graduatesmay adopt the title �Master. The abbreviatedtitle M. is placed after the name, and may befollowed by letters indicating the field ofstudy.

Meester (+ specialisation)Country: Belgium (Flemish Community)Grammatical variants: MeestersLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification and title awarded to studentswho successfully complete in accordancewith the programme a 3-year second cycle ofnon-university higher education in fine art ina Hogeschool, following a � Kandidaat in dedegree. The examinations (written and/or oralas the teacher decides) cover all the subjectsstudied. The degree indicates the name of theinstitution and the title of the diploma, whilea supplement gives details of the subjectsstudied and the marks awarded. It gives entryto the relevant profession.

Meester in de rechtenCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Meesters in de rechtenLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Term referring to the title of law graduates.See � Meester.

MeistarabréfCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants:Meistarabréfi, MeistarabréfsLevel of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Master craftsman’s certificate awarded totrainees who have successfully completed the� Meistaranám í iðn examination. It confersthe title � Meistari. The certificate mentionsthe specialisation. Holders may exercisesupervisory responsibilities in the given fieldand recruit apprentices.

MeistaragrádaCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: MeistaragráduLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Post-graduate qualification awarded tostudents who successfully complete a post-graduate course of university study of 2 to 3years following the � BA-, BS- or BEd-grádaor 1 year following the � Kandidatsgráda inengineering. It is awarded to students who


pass the final � Meistarapróf examination. Itconfers the title �Magister in the given field.

Meistaranám í iðnCountry: IcelandLevel of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Continuous assessment in a 1- to 3-yearcourse of vocational education (depending onthe trade) following the � Sveinsbréfqualification and one year’s work in the tradeor occupation. It leads to the � Meistarabréfcertificate, conferring the title � Meistari(master craftsman). The tests and assessmentdepend on each educational institution(industrial-vocational and comprehensiveupper secondary schools) or apprenticeshiptraining centres.

MeistaraprófCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: -prófi, -prófsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination held by university institutions atthe end of post-graduate studies of 2 to 3 yearsleading to the � Meistaragráda qualification,conferring the title � Magister. Its contentand the level of requirements depend on eachinstitution. It includes written and oral testsrelating to the different subjects in theprogramme studied, as well as a finaldissertation.

MeistariCountry: IcelandLevel of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Title awarded to craftsmen who have obtainedthe � Meistarabréf certificate.

MeisterklassenexamenCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: MeisterklassenexaminaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination held at the end of a master class(Meisterklasse) as a post-graduate course inMusikhochschulen. The prerequisite for entryis a particularly outstanding performance in afirst degree course (grundständiger

Studiengang) in music and success in anentrance examination or aptitude test.

MeisterschülerCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants:Meisterschüler, Meisterschüler*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded by Kunsthochschulen toartistically particularly talented students whosuccessfully complete a post-graduate courseof studies ending with a presentation of theirartistic achievements. A final examination ina first degree course (grundständigeStudiengänge) constitutes a prerequisite forthis course.

MestreCountry: PortugalLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Academic title conferred on holders of the �Carta Magistral degree.

Metaptychiako Diploma Eidikefsis sti (n)(+ specialisation) ((ΜΜεεττααππττυυχχιιαακκόό ∆∆ίίππλλωωµµααΕΕιιδδίίκκεευυσσηηςς σσττηη((νν))))

Country: GreeceGrammatical variants: Μεταπτυχιακού∆ιπλώµατος Ειδίκευσης στη(ν),µεταπτυχιακ-* διπλωµ-*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma of completion of post-graduatestudies, lasting a minimum of 1 year, 3months of which must be devoted to a finalwritten assignment on a subject relating to thespecialisation. It is awarded by institutions ofhigher education (Anotato EkpaidevtikoIdrima – AEI) to students who have passedthe written and oral examinations in all of thesubjects studied and presented the finalassignment to a board of examiners. Thediploma mentions the field of thespecialisation and the level of studies; it givesaccess to employment and to doctoral studiesin the field concerned.


MgA.Country: Czech RepublicLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of �Magistr in the field of arts.

MgrCountry: PolandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Magister.

Mgr in¿.

Country: PolandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Magister in thetechnological field.

Mgr.Country: Czech RepublicLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Magistr.

Mgr.Country: SlovakiaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Magister in the field ofhuman sciences.

Mgr.art.Country: SlovakiaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Magister in the field ofarts.

MIBCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Master of in the field ofInternational Business.

Mittlerer AbschlussCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Mittlerer Abschluß,Mittler* Abschluss*Level of education: Lower secondary

Explanatory note:Term used in certain Länder for �Realschulabschluss.

Mittlerer BildungsabschlussCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Mittlerer Bildungsabschluß, Mittler* Bildungsabschluss*Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Term used in certain Länder for �Realschulabschluss.

Mittlerer SchulabschlussCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Mittlerer Schulabschluß, Mittler* Schulabschluss*Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Term used in certain Länder for �Realschulabschluss.

ModulbevisCountry: NorwayGrammatical variants: Modulbeviset, ModulbeviseneLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:A module certificate which documentscompletion of a module which is part of asubject. The module certificate can be issuedfor a whole module or in special cases for partof a module.

MPaedCountry: IcelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Magister Paedagogiae in thefield of educational sciences � Magister.

Mr.Country: The NetherlandsLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Meester, written beforethe name.


MSCountry: IcelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Magister Scientiarum in thefield of the exact sciences � Magister.

MUDr.Country: Czech Republic, SlovakiaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor in the field ofmedicine.

MVDr.Country: Czech Republic, SlovakiaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor in the field ofveterinary medicine.


National CertificateCountry: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded after completion of a 2-year full-time course of higher educationinstitutions (Institute of Technology and otherdesignated institutions) validated by theNational Council for Educational Awards. It isfollowed by an indication of the area of study,e.g. National Certificate in Science. Only thestudy area is indicated. Students obtaininghigh marks and those who have one year’swork experience may proceed to the �National Diploma in the same field.Successful students may also be exemptedfrom parts of certain professionalexaminations. Abbreviation: NC.

National Certificate ModuleCountry: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Lower secondary/uppersecondary/post-secondaryExplanatory note:A non-advanced vocational qualificationawarded by the Scottish QualificationsAuthority on the basis of a course comprisingone or more learning outcomes. Each courseelement is evaluated on a modular basis, i.e.as the student completes the work. This isrecorded and certificated on an annual basis.

National Craft CertificateCountry: IrelandLevel of education: Upper secondary

Explanatory note:Certificate of completion of apprenticeship,the duration of which may vary according tothe trade or occupation concerned. Thiscertificate indicates the occupational sectorand standard reached and grants access toemployment. It is awarded jointly by theDepartment of Education and Science andFAS based on a new standard approach. Itinvolves seven phases, four at work and threein a training centre or college.

National Curriculum AssessmentCountry: United Kingdom (E/W)Level of education: Primary/lower secondaryExplanatory note:Statutory assessment which all pupils inpublicly-funded schools must undergo at theend of Key Stages 1 (age 7), 2 (age 11), and 3(age 14). These assessments consist ofteacher assessment of all pupils usingnationally-set criteria and nationally-set tasksand written tests for most pupils (the lowestattaining pupils being subject to teacherassessment only) in English, Welsh (inWelsh-speaking schools in Wales),mathematics and, at the end of Key Stages 2and 3, science. The results of the teacherassessment and the tests and tasks areexpressed in terms of the NationalCurriculum 1-8 level scale. No certificate isawarded, but the results of individual pupilsmust be reported to parents, and school-levelresults must be published in the school’sprospectus.

N n


National DiplomaCountry: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Diploma awarded by the National Council forEducational Awards to students who havesuccessfully completed a 3-year full-time courseof study, or 1-year following the � NationalCertificate, in an Institute of Technology. Itmentions the specialised area, e.g. NationalDiploma in Science. Only the study area isindicated. Students obtaining high marks andthose who have one year’s work experience mayproceed to study for a � Bachelor’s degree inthe same field. Successful students may also beexempted from parts of certain professionalexaminations. Abbreviation: ND.

National Foundation CertificateCountry: IrelandLevel of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to learners who meet therequired standard in a total of eight modules,including three core modules of broad pre-vocational training intended to provide a basisfor progression opportunities in the nationalfurther education framework.

National testingCountry: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Primary/secondaryExplanatory note:Testing undertaken in primary and the firsttwo years of secondary education by teachersto confirm their own assessment of the pupil’sprogress towards each of the five levels ofattainment identified in the 5-14 Curriculum.Tests are carried out for monitoring purposesat the discretion of the teacher and at themoment considered appropriate, and are notcertificated.

National Vocational Certificate (Level 1, 2, 3)Country: IrelandLevel of education: Post-secondary• Explanatory note level 1:

Certificate awarded to learners who meetthe required standard in a total of eightmodules, including four core modules inintroductory vocational education and

training intended to provide access togeneral employment and progressionopportunities in the national furthereducation framework.

• Explanatory note level 2:Certificate awarded to candidates who meetthe required standard in modules whosetotal value is at least eight and whichinclude the mandatory vocational modulesfor that certificate, communications and awork experience module in specificvocational education and training intendedto provide access to specific employmentand progression opportunities to Further,Higher Education and Training.

• Explanatory note level 3:Certificate awarded to candidates whomeet the required standard in all themodules required in advanced vocationaleducation and training intended to provideaccess to specific employment and toHigher Education and Training.

National Vocational QualificationCountry: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Specific vocational qualifications aimed atyoung people who have left full-time education.Designed specifically for education and trainingin the workplace and further educationinstitutions but some are now available inschools. Available at five levels, of which thefirst three are Level 1, broadly equivalent to alower grade pass in the �General Certificate ofSecondary Education and categorised as afoundation level qualification within theNational Framework of qualifications, Level 2,broadly equivalent to a higher grade pass in the� General Certificate of Secondary Educationand categorised as an intermediate levelqualification within the National Framework ofqualifications and Level 3, broadly equivalent toa pass in the �General Certificate of EducationAdvanced Level and categorised as an advancedlevel qualification within the NationalFramework of qualifications. Assessment isbased on demonstration of requiredcompetencies as defined by the standard-settingbodies (now largely employer-led NationalTraining Organisations) and therefore there are


no grades of achievement other than ‘pass’.Students may progress to Level 4 NVQs.Abbreviation: NVQ.

NäyttötutkintoCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: näyttötutkinno-,näyttötutkinto-, näyttötutkinnotLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:A vocational skills examination, the officialbasis of which is laid down by the NationalBoard of Education. Pupils must demonstrateto an examination board that they have therequired skills in order to qualify. It is open toall who have taken an apprenticeship orvocational training, or who have skills fromwork experience or training in the workplace.There are three levels of qualification of whichthe first one is � Ammatillinen perustutkinto.Swedish term: Fristående yrkesprov.

NCCountry: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � National Certificate.

NCEA DiplomaCountry: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Post-graduate teaching qualification awardedby the National Council for EducationalAwards to holders of a � Bachelor’s degree or

a � National Diploma in Art or Design whosuccessfully complete a 1-year full-timecourse.

NDCountry: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � National Diploma.

Northern Ireland AssessmentCountry: United Kingdom (NI)Level of education: Primary/lower secondaryExplanatory note:Statutory assessment which pupils at allpublicly-funded schools must undergo at theend of Key Stages 1 (age 8), 2 (age 11), and 3(age 14). Assessments consist of teacherassessment of all pupils using nationally-setcriteria; and nationally-set written tests at theend of Key Stage 3 in English, mathematicsand science.The results of the teacher assessment and thetests are expressed in terms of the NorthernIreland Curriculum 1-8 level scale. Nocertificate is awarded, but the results ofindividual pupils must be reported to parents.

NVQCountry: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � National VocationalQualification.


Okleveles (+ field of study)Country: HungaryLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe � Egyetemi oklevél degree. It is alwaysaccompanied by the name of the field ofstudy, for example – okleveles közgaszdász inthe field of economics.

One-year Certificate Country: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification awarded by the NationalCouncil for Educational Awards in respect of

two of the four major discipline areasdesignated by it – Business and Humanities –to students who successfully complete 1-yearfull-time courses or equivalent.

OperatoreCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: OperatoriLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Title conferred on pupils who have obtainedthe � Diploma di qualifica.

O o


PaedDr.Country: SlovakiaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor in the field ofeducational sciences.

PAPCountry: PortugalLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Prova de AptidãoProfissional.

Part One General National VocationalQualification

Country: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:The Part One GNVQ is currently being pilotedin schools in England and Wales, but will beavailable to all schools from September 1999.It offers a 2-year course designed for 14- to 16-year-olds. It is available in a number of broadvocational areas at two levels – Foundation,roughly equivalent to two lower grade passesin the � General Certificate of SecondaryEducation; and Intermediate, roughlyequivalent to two higher grade � GeneralCertificate of Secondary Education.Abbreviation: Part One GNVQ.

Part One GNVQCountry: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondary

Explanatory note:Abbreviation of � Part One GeneralNational Vocational Qualification.

PAUCountry: SpainLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Pruebas de Acceso a laUniversidad.

PeritoCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: PeritiLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Title conferred on pupils who have obtained the�Diploma di superamento dell’esame di Statoconclusivo dei corsi di studio di istruzionesecondaria superiore in an istituto tecnico.

Peruskoulun päättötodistusCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants:todistukse-, todistuksetLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate awarded to pupils at theend of the 9-year peruskoulu/grundskola.There is no final examination but continuousassessment throughout the pupil’s career. Thecertificate indicates the compulsory andoptional subjects taken and the marksobtained in them. This certificate grantsaccess to upper secondary education. Swedishterm: Avgångsbetyg från grundskolan.

P p


PGCECountry: United KingdomLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Postgraduate Certificate ofEducation. See � Postgraduate Certificate/Diploma + field of study.

Ph.D.Country: Czech RepublicLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor.

Ph.D.Country: IrelandLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Doctor of Philosophy, onetype of � Doctorate.

Ph.d.Country: DenmarkLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Philosophiae Doctor.

Ph.d.-gradCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: -grader, -graderneLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded at the end of supervised post-graduate studies lasting 3 years following the� Kandidatgrad (or equivalent) or 2 yearsfollowing the � Magistergrad. In order toobtain this degree, the student must pass thesubjects in the study programme, write anddefend a thesis on a specialist subject andparticipate in a research assignment for 6months. The assessment of students alsocovers their mobility, i.e. their integration intoactive research groups and their teachingexperience. The degree mentions the title andthe field of specialisation. It confers the title� Philosophiae Doctor. It constitutes theminimum basis required for teaching andresearch in a Danish university. Until 1988,the term used for this degree was �Licenciatgrad.

PharmDr.Country: Czech Republic, SlovakiaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor in the field ofpharmacy.

PhDCountry: SlovakiaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Philosophiae doctor atpost-graduate level.

PhDr.Country: Czech RepublicLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of �Doktor in the field of humanand social sciences and educational science.

PhDr.Country: SlovakiaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor in the field ofhuman and artistic sciences.

Philosophiae doctorCountry: DenmarkLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who obtain the �Ph.d.-grad. Abbreviation: Ph.d.

Philosophiae doctorCountry: SlovakiaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title conferred on students who haveobtained the diploma � Diplom at the end ofpost-graduate studies. Abbreviation: PhD andin the field of arts: ArtD.

Postgraduate Certificate/Diploma(+ field of study)

Country: United KingdomLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:A post-graduate course of higher educationusually in a specialised or vocational subject.An example is the Postgraduate Certificate of


Education (PGCE), a 1-year course in the theoryand practice of teaching taken by graduates inany subject who intend to teach. Courses areoffered by universities and other highereducation institutions and normally take 1 year’sfull-time or 2 years’s part-time study dependingon the institution. Diploma courses are usuallyof a higher level than courses leading to aCertificate. Assessment arrangements aredetermined at institutional level but may includewritten examinations, continuous assessment,extended essay or thesis or a combination ofthese. Successful completion of these coursesdoes not normally give automatic access tofurther studies or particular occupations, butstudents may progress to employment in arelated sector, to studies for a higher degree, orto fulfil the examination or other membershiprequirements of a professional association. Forexample, in Scotland, a PGCE course confers aTeaching Qualification (TQ), but there is a 2-year probationary period before a holder of theTQ can become a fully registered teacher.Abbreviation: PGCE.

Praktisk-pedagogisk utdanningCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to students who passwritten final examinations and completeperiods of practice in a school at the end ofuniversity studies lasting 1 year in the field ofeducation and teaching. The examinations areset by each institution and assessed by twoexaminers, of whom one is external in order toavoid the possibility of bias. The certificatementions the student’s results in the finalexaminations and an assessment of thepractical stage. It gives access to employmentas a primary or secondary school teacher.

Praktisk-teologisk utdanningCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to students who, afterobtaining the �Candidatus degree in the field oftheology pass final examinations and completeperiods of practical training in congregations andinstitutions at the end of university studies lasting

1 year in the field of theology, liturgy, church lawand clerical practice. The examinations are setby each institution and assessed by twoexaminers, of whom one is external to avoid thepossibility of bias. The certificate mentions thestudent’s results in the final examinations and anassessment of the practical training. It givesaccess to employment as a Lutheranpriest/parson.

Probã practicã

Country: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Proba practicã

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Optional practical examination, held at theend of studies in upper secondary education(specialised secondary schools), which makesit possible to obtain the certificate � Atestatprofesional. This test covers the specialistsubject and is accompanied by a written test.

Professeur agrégéCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title conferred on students who haveobtained the � Agrégation.

Professeur certifiéCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title conferred on students who haveobtained the � Certificat d’aptitude auprofessorat de l’enseignement secondaire.

Professeur des écolesCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title conferred on holders of the � Certificatd’aptitude au professorat des écoles. Thistype of teacher has been replacing theinstituteur in primary schools since 1992 andthe latter are disappearing.

PromotieCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: PromotiesLevel of education: Higher


Explanatory note:Inter alia, the formal defence of a thesis ortechnological design to obtain a doctorate �Doctoraat.

PromotionCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: PromotionenLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination forming part of a specialprocedure for the award of the � Doktorgrad.Successful completion of a first course ofstudy ending with a � Diplom, a � Magisteror a first Staatsexamen (see � Staatsprüfung)is normally a prerequisite for admission to thePromotion process, which serves to reviewstudents’ achievements in examinations andestablish their academic capabilities. Theirability to undertake independent research isdemonstrated in the presentation of asubstantial written thesis (Dissertation) on anacademic topic and an oral examination,known as the Rigorosum, Kolloquium orDisputation, before the Promotion examiningboard of the department or Faculty for thesubject being examined. Once they havedeposited the obligatory copies of theirDissertation and received their Promotioncertificate, successful students are entitled tobear the � Doktorgrad.

Propedeutisch examenCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants:Propedeutische examensLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination at the end of the first year ofstudy in university education (wetenschap-pelijk onderwijs – wo) and non-universityhigher professional education (hogerberoepsonderwijs – hbo). Students must passthis examination in order to continue withtheir studies. The propedeutisch examen is areview of the student’s academic record toassess whether the student has completed therequirements of the first year of the highereducation study. All the requirements for theexamination have been met if the student haspassed all the interim-examinations

(tentamens) as required in the teaching andexamination regulations of the institution. Anexamining board set up by the institutionorganises the examination. The responsibilityfor the way the examination is organised andthe content of the examination lies with thecompetent authority of the institution(universiteit or hogeschool). Successfulcandidates receive a � Getuigschrift van hetpropedeutisch examen.

Prova de Aptidão ProfissionalCountry: PortugalGrammatical variants: Provas de Aptidão Profissional Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Examination taken by pupils attendingvocational schools (Escolas Profissionais), afterhaving completed two thirds of their curricular3-year course. It is necessary for the award ofthe �Diploma de Qualificação Profissional deNível III. This examination takes the form of aninterdisciplinary project developed according tothe pupil’s personal interests and is organised inclose connection with enterprises. This projectis submitted and assessed by an examinationboard which includes the pedagogical directorof the vocational school, who presides, the tutorand representatives of the relevant local tradeassociations and trade unions.

Prova de doutoramentoCountry: PortugalGrammatical variants: Provas de doutoramentoLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:University examination leading to the award ofthe � Carta Doutoral degree and the title �Doutor. It involves the public defence of anoriginal thesis (tese de doutoramento) which isregarded as making a new and originalcontribution to the advancement of knowledgeat a high cultural level in a specific area ofknowledge and demonstrating an ability tocarry out independent research work. Theremay also be � Provas Complementares inaccordance with the individual university’sregulations on doctorates. This is held before aboard comprising the head of the university, in


the chair, at least three doctoral members (ofwhom two are external), the director of studiesand possibly an eminent expert in the fieldconcerned.

Prova GlobalCountry: PortugalGrammatical variants: Provas GlobaisLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:• One of the components of internal

summative assessment, other thancontinuous assessment, in the subjects ofthe third stage of compulsory basiceducation (Ensino Básico).

• Also one of the components of internalsummative assessment to be taken intoaccount for the final mark in a given subject atthe end of years 10 and 11 and in subjects of apractical nature in the final year (year 12).

Provas ComplementaresCountry: PortugalLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examinations required to be taken bycandidates for the � Carta Doutoral degreeand the title � Doutor who do not satisfy someof the requirements in the individualuniversity’s regulations on doctorates, forinstance by not holding a � Carta Magistraldegree, or where the qualification held is not inthe same subject area as the � Carta Doutoral.It involves a discussion before a board ofexaminers comprising three doctoral members(two of whom are external) on research worksubmitted by the student in a subject arearelated to the specialisation but separate fromthe work prepared for the thesis (tese dedoutoramento). To be accepted as a candidate,the student may be required to attend and passcourses from the curriculum provided by theuniversity at post-graduate level.

Prueba de MadurezCountry: SpainGrammatical variants: Pruebas de MadurezLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Final examination organised under theeducation system in effect prior to the reformsof the 1990 Organic Law on the General

Organisation of the Education System (LeyOrgánica de Ordenación General del SistemaEducatión – LOGSE). This examination wasintended for those pupils who did notsuccessfully complete the 8 years ofcompulsory education (Educación GeneralBásica – EGB). Success in this examinationentitled pupils to the certificate � GraduadoEscolar. This examination consisted ofexaminations covering the compulsorysubjects in the programme. This examinationwill remain until 2001/2002.

Pruebas de Acceso a la UniversidadCountry: SpainGrammatical variants: Prueba de Acceso ala UniversidadLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Obligatory examination for entry to long-cycleuniversity studies, organised at the end of theupper secondary education. It is intended forpupils who have already passed theexaminations under the course programme.There are two types of access examination, theone corresponding to the system prior to thereform of 1990 (LOGSE), for pupils who havesuccessfully completed the 1-year pre-universitypreparation course (Curso de OrientaciónUniversitaria – COU), the other for pupils whohave followed LOGSE Bachillerato and havebeen awarded the certificate � Bachiller. Inboth cases, the access system is analogous in itsconcept and organisation, varying only inrelation to the specific access examinations.There are two examinations covering thesubjects taken during the final year of study. Firstexercise: Pupils taking the COU course musttake tests in the Spanish language (in theAutonomous Communities with two officiallanguages, there is also a test in the otherlanguage) and also in a foreign language and inphilosophy and take examinations in thecompulsory and optional subjects in their chosenfield in a total of four subjects. LOGSEBachillerato pupils must take tests in theSpanish language (and, as applicable, in thelanguage and literature of the AutonomousCommunity), in a foreign language and inphilosophy or history and take examinations inthree or more subjects they have taken in the


second year of the Bachillerato. Theseexaminations are organised twice each schoolyear. If they fail the examination, candidates havethe right to make three additional attempts.Synonym: Selectividad. Abbreviation: PAU.

PsykologexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Professional degree in the field of psychology,awarded after a 5-year programme of full-timestudy, which normally includes a degreeproject. The degree certificate normallymentions the subjects passed and the marksand grades obtained. The degree gives accessto employment and general eligibility fordoctoral studies.

PsykoterapeutexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Graduate diploma in the field of psychotherapy,awarded after a 3-year programme of half-timestudy. The studies are based on a firstprofessional degree in the health care sector. Thedegree certificate normally mentions the subjectspassed and the marks and grades obtained. Thedegree gives access to employment.

Ptychio (+ specialisation) ((ΠΠττυυχχίίοο))Country: GreeceGrammatical variants: Πτυχίου, πτυχ-*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:• Diploma of completion of non-university

higher education, lasting 3 to 3½ years,followed by a practical training placement of6 months in the field of the specialisation. It isawarded by institutions of specialisedtechnical education (TechnologikoEkpaidevtiko Idrima – TEI) to students whopass the continuous assessment throughoutthe period of their studies in all of the subjectsstudied, their practical training placement andthe final examination. The diploma mentionsthe specialisation, the title, the overall markand the grade obtained. It gives access toemployment in the field of the specialisation.

• Degree awarded by universities aftercompletion of studies, varying from 4 to 6years, to candidates who have passed theexaminations in all of the subjects studied.The degree mentions the specialisation, thetitle, the overall mark and the grade obtained.It gives access to employment, in the field ofthe specialisation, as well as to post-graduatestudies.

The name of the degree is always accompaniedby the name of the field concerned (e.g.Ptychio Iatrikis in medicine, Ptychio Physikisin physics, etc.). The title conferred is �Ptychiouchos, followed by the name of thefield concerned. Synonym: Diploma.

Ptychio Technikis Epaggelmatikis Scholis((ΠΠττυυχχίίοο ΤΤεεχχννιικκήήςς –– ΕΕππααγγγγεελλµµααττιικκήήςς ΣΣχχοολλήήςς))

Country: GreeceGrammatical variants: Πτυχίου Τεχνικής –Επαγγελµατικής Σχολής, πτυχ–*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of upper secondaryvocational education (Techniko EpaggelmatikoScholeio – TES) lasting 2 years, awarded topupils on the basis of internal assessmentthroughout their studies in all of the subjectsfollowed. It mentions the specialisation, thecourse subjects and the marks obtained, as wellas the average mark and the grade. Thisdiploma confers the title � PtychiouchosTechnikis Epaggelmatikis Scholis and it givesaccess to employment in the field of thespecialisation and to the second year of theTechniko-Epaggelmatiko Lykeio for candidateswishing to continue their studies. Abbreviation:Ptychio TES.

Ptychio Technikou-Epaggelmatikou Lykeiou((ΠΠττυυχχίίοο ΤΤεεχχννιικκοούύ –– ΕΕππααγγγγεελλµµααττιικκοούύ ΛΛυυκκεείίοουυ))

Country: GreeceGrammatical variants: Πτυχίου Τεχνικού –Επαγγελµατικού Λυκείου, πτυχ–*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of upper secondaryvocational education (Techniko-EpaggelmatikoLykeio – TEL) lasting 3 years, awarded topupils who have chosen a section ofspecialisation. It is awarded on the basis of


internal assessment throughout their studies inall of the subjects followed. It mentions thespecialisation, the course subjects and the marksobtained, as well as the average mark and thegrade. This certificate confers the title �Ptychiouchos Technikou-EpaggelmatikouLykeiou and gives access to employment in thefield of the specialisation and, since 1996, to thenational examinations � Genikes Exetaseis forcontinuing technical higher education studies.Abbreviation: Ptychio TEL.

Ptychio TEL ((ΠΠττυυχχίίοο ΤΤ.. ΕΕ.. ΛΛ..))Country: GreeceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Ptychio Technikou-Epaggelmatikou Lykeiou.

Ptychio TES ((ΠΠττυυχχίίοο ΤΤ.. ΕΕ.. ΣΣ..))Country: GreeceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Ptychio TechnikisEpaggelmatikis Scholis.

Ptychio Tmimatos Eidikevsis EniaiouPolykladikou Lykeiou ((ΠΠττυυχχίίοο ΤΤµµήήµµααττοοςςΕΕιιδδίίκκεευυσσηηςς ΕΕννιιααίίοουυ ΠΠοολλυυκκλλααδδιικκοούύ ΛΛυυκκεείίοουυ))

Country: GreeceGrammatical variants: Πτυχίου ΤµήµατοςΕιδίκευσης Ενιαίου Πολυκλαδικού Λυκείου,πτυχ–*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Diploma of completion of studies of uppersecondary vocational education lasting 1 year,awarded to students who have obtained thediploma � Apolytirio Eniaiou PolykladikouLykeiou and chosen an extra section ofvocational specialisation in an institution ofcomprehensive secondary education (EniaioPolykladiko Lykeio – EPL). It is awarded onthe basis of internal assessment throughouttheir studies in all of the subjects followed. Itmentions the specialisation, the coursesubjects and the marks obtained, as well as theaverage mark and the grade. This diplomaconfers the title � Ptychiouchos TmimatosEidikevsis Eniaiou Polykladikou Lykeiou andit gives access to specialised vocational

studies lasting 6 months in an InstitutoEpaggelmatikis Katartisis – IEK.

Ptychiouchos (+ specialisation) ((ΠΠττυυχχιιοούύχχοοςς))Country: GreeceGrammatical variants: Πτυχιούχου,Πτυχιούχων, πτυχιουχ-*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe diploma � Ptychio. It is followed by thename of the field concerned.

Ptychiouchos Technikis Epaggelmatikis Scholis((ΠΠττυυχχιιοούύχχοοςς ΤΤεεχχννιικκήήςς –– ΕΕππααγγγγεελλµµααττιικκήήςςΣΣχχοολλήήςς))

Country: GreeceGrammatical variants:Πτυχιούχου Τεχνικής – ΕπαγγελµατικήςΣχολής, πτυχιουχ–*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Title awarded to candidates who haveobtained the diploma � Ptychio TechnikisEpaggelmatikis Scholis.

Ptychiouchos Technikou-EpaggelmatikouLykeiou ((ΠΠττυυχχιιοούύχχοοςς ΤΤεεχχννιικκοούύ ––ΕΕππααγγγγεελλµµααττιικκοούύ ΛΛυυκκεείίοουυ))

Country: GreeceGrammatical variants:Πτυχιούχου Τεχνικού – ΕπαγγελµατικούΛυκείου, πτυχιουχ–* Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Title awarded to candidates who haveobtained the diploma � Ptychio Technikou-Epaggelmatikou Lykeiou.

Ptychiouchos Tmimatos Eidikevsis EniaiouPolykladikou Lykeiou ((ΠΠττυυχχιιοούύχχοοςς ΤΤµµήήµµααττοοςςΕΕιιδδίίκκεευυσσηηςς ΕΕννιιααίίοουυ ΠΠοολλυυκκλλααδδιικκοούύ ΛΛυυκκεείίοουυ))

Country: GreeceGrammatical variants:Πτυχιούχου Τµήµατος Ειδίκευσης,πτυχιουχ–*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Title awarded to candidates who haveobtained the diploma � Ptychio TmimatosEidikevsis Eniaiou Polykladikou Lykeiou.


Qualifizierender HauptschulabschlussCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Qualifizierender Hauptschulabschluß, Qualifizierend* Hauptschulabschluss*Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Qualifying lower secondary general educationcertificate awarded in some Länder after theninth school year by a Hauptschule as well asby other schools at lower secondary level topupils who have attained certain marks and onthe basis of other evidence of achievement(examination). It gives pupils access undercertain conditions to a Berufsaufbauschule orBerufsfachschule. Synonym: QualifizierterHauptschulabschluss.

Qualifizierter HauptschulabschlussCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Qualifizierter Hauptschulabschluß, Qualifiziert* Hauptschulabschluss*Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Term used in certain Länder for �Qualifizierender Hauptschulabschluss.

Qualifizierter SekundarabschlussCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Qualifizierter Sekundarabschluß, Qualifiziert* Sekundarabschluss*Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Term used in certain Länder for �Realschulabschluss.

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Rabotnik ((РРааббооттнниикк))Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants: RabotnitziLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Vocational qualification awarded to pupilswho have obtained the certificate �Svidetelstvo za profesionalna kvalifikasia.

RealschulabschlussCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Realschulabschluß,Realschulabschluss*Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:General education school-leaving certificateawarded by a Realschule or under certain con-ditions also by other types of lower secondaryschool after the tenth school year. Awarded onthe basis of attainments during the tenthschool year or in some Länder following afinal examination (oral and written tests). Itgives access under certain conditions to othertypes of secondary schools providing educati-on beyond the tenth school year or to theGymnasiale Oberstufe. Terms used in certainLänder: � Mittlerer Abschluss, � MittlererSchulabschluss, � Mittlerer Bildungs-abschluss, �Qualifizierter Sekundarabschluss,� Fachoberschulreife/Fachschulreife, �Wirtschaftsschulabschluss.

ReceptarieexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: Higher

Explanatory note:Professional degree in the field of pharmacy,awarded after a 2-year programme of full-time study. The degree certificate normallymentions the subjects passed. The degreegives access to employment.

Régent(e)Country: Belgium (French Community)Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Synonym of � Agrégé(e) de l’enseignementsecondaire inférieur.

Reife- und Diplomprüfung Country: AustriaGrammatical variants: Reife- und Diplomprüfungen, Reife- und Diplomprüfung*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Final examination at the end of uppersecondary vocational education in theberufsbildende höhere Schule (BHS) and uppersecondary schools for training of nurseryschool teachers and in social pedagogy(Sozialpädagogik) (duration 5 years). Thosewho pass receive the � Reife- undDiplomprüfungszeugnis. The examination isinternally organised by the individualinstitutions but the subjects for the written partshave to be submitted to the regional schoolauthorities for approval. The orals are chairedby an external representative of the schoolauthorities. The examinations vary accordingto the type of institution and branch of study.

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Reife- und DiplomprüfungszeugnisCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Reife- und Diplomprüfungszeugnisse, Reife- und Diplomprüfungszeugnis*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to those who pass the �Reife- und Diplomprüfung at the end of uppersecondary technical and vocational educationin the berufsbildende höhere Schule (BHS)and upper secondary schools for training ofnursery school teachers and in socialpedagogy (Sozialpädagogik). The certificatementions the overall result, the subjects andmarks, the overall timetable of education andtraining and, for the BHS, the professionalqualifications and individual professionalrights. It gives access to higher education(allgemeine Hochschulreife).

ReifeprüfungCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Reifeprüfungen, Reifeprüfung*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Final examination at the end of 4 years ofupper secondary general education (AHS-Oberstufe or Oberstufenrealgymnasium).Pupils who pass it obtain the �Reifeprüfungszeugnis. The examination isorganised internally by the school. Theexamination consists of seven parts, somewritten and some oral, and covers at least foursubjects, including German, mathematics anda foreign language. It may include aspecialised dissertation (Fachbereichsarbeit)that has to be completed by the end of the firstsemester of the final year and may replace oneof the written examinations. The examiningboard includes teachers from the school and arepresentative of the regional educationauthority or the headteacher of another school.

ReifeprüfungszeugnisCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Reifeprüfungszeugnisse, Reifeprüfungszeugnis*Level of education: Upper secondary

Explanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who pass the �Reifeprüfung at the end of upper secondarygeneral education (AHS-Oberstufe orOberstufenrealgymnasium). It indicates thesubjects sat and the marks awarded. It givesaccess to higher education (allgemeineHochschulreife).

RigorosenzeugnisCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Rigorosenzeugnisse,Rigorosenzeugnis*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree certificate confirming success in the� Rigorosum. It may be awarded after 2years of study at a university. It indicates thesubject of the thesis and is a requirement forthe award of the academic title � Doktor(+ field of study).

RigorosumCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants:Rigorosen, Rigorosum*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Final examination in studies for higherdegrees, compulsory to obtain the �Rigorosenzeugnis required to obtain theacademic title � Doktor (+ field of study).Organised internally within the institution.Acceptance and defence of the thesis.

Rigorózna skúškaCountry: SlovakiaGrammatical variants: Rigorózne skúšky,Rigorózna skúška*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination aimed at students who arealready holders of the title � Magister. Itincludes oral examinations covering thesubjects of the studies pursued and isaccompanied by a thesis and its defence(obhajoba rigoróznej práce). Successfulstudents receive the � Diplom indicating thefield of study pursued.


RNDr.Country: Czech Republic, SlovakiaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor in the field ofnatural sciences.

Robotnik wykwalifikowanyCountry: PolandGrammatical variants:Robotnicy wykwalifikowani, Robotnik*wykwalifikowan* Level of education: Upper secondary/post-secondaryExplanatory note:Title awarded to pupils who have obtained thecertificate � �wiadectwo ukoñczenia szko³yzasadniczej (in basic vocational schools) or ��wiadectwo ukoñczenia liceum zawodowego(in vocational schools lasting 4 years) or �Dyplom ukoñczenia szko³y policealnej (inpost-secondary schools lasting 1 year).

Royal Society of Arts Examinations BoardInitial Award

Country: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondary

Explanatory note:RSA Examinations Board Initial Awardscomprise 15 qualifications in a range ofvocational areas. Assessment is by twoexternally set and marked written tests and aninternally marked project (with externalmoderation). These qualifications areprimarily designed for 14- to16-year-olds as acomplementary provision to their NationalCurriculum studies. Progression to �General National Vocational Qualificationor vocational qualifications, or � GeneralCertificate of Education Advanced Level.Entry requirements vary according toinstitution and course. Abbreviation: RSAInitial Award.

RSA Initial AwardCountry: United Kingdom (E/W/NI)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Royal Society of ArtsExaminations Board Initial Award.


Samræmd lokaprófCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: Samræmd lokaprófun,Samræmd lokaprófaLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Nationally coordinated examinations held atthe end of the 10 years of compulsoryeducation. It leads to the � Vitnisburður umnám í grunnskóla certificate. It is set, organisedand marked by the Institute of EducationalResearch. It includes written tests in Icelandic,mathematics, Danish and English.

SCE – Higher GradeCountry: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Scottish Certificate ofEducation – Higher Grade.

SCE – Standard GradeCountry: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Scottish Certificate ofEducation – Standard Grade.

SchoolexamenCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: SchoolexamensLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Internal school examination for compulsoryexamination subjects, organised and markedby the school and taken during the final year.

Vbo, mavo, havo and vwo have their owninternal school examination for eachexamination subject. It consists of two ormore oral or written tests. The schoolexamenis part of the � Eindexamen.Note: New style examinations are scheduledfor havo in the 2000/2001 school year and forvwo in the 2001/2002 school year (or oneyear earlier for the experimental schools),changing the nature of the schoolexamen forhavo and vwo. For some subjects there will beonly a schoolexamen.For vbo and mavo, new style examinations –as a consequence of an educational reformstill to be implemented – will be administeredin the 2002/2003 school year.

SchoolonderzoekCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: SchoolonderzoekenLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Until the school year 1998/99, the term for theinternal school examination; since 1998/99, theofficial term for the internal school examinationof vbo, mavo, havo and vwo is � Schoolexamen.

SchoolverlatersverklaringCountry: The NetherlandsLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils leaving secondaryeducation without passing the finalexamination, i.e. leaving without a diploma.The certificate mentions the school type and thelast unconditional promotion to the next class,

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and indicates the types of education and theschool class in which the school leaver wouldbe permitted to continue his/her school career.

Scottish Certificate of Education – HigherGrade

Country: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:External, nationally standardised uppersecondary school leaving examination andfinal qualification organised and certificatedby the Scottish Qualifications Authority(SQA) taken in a variable number of subjects(usually about 4) freely selected by the pupil.Usually taken in the 5th, but also in the 6th,year of secondary education. Theexaminations are mainly written but someinclude an oral or a practical element andassessment of course work over the year istaken into account. The certificate indicatesthe names of the subjects examined and thegrade obtained by the pupil in each, on a scalefrom A to E, grades down to D being regardedas a pass. It is a qualification for entry towork, training and higher education. Pupilscan remain at school for a further year andmay study for the � Certificate of Sixth YearStudies. Abbreviation: SCE – Higher Grade.

Scottish Certificate of Education – StandardGrade

Country: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:External, nationally standardised lowersecondary school examination andqualification which may be taken atFoundation, General and Credit levels (inascending order of difficulty), usually in the4th year of secondary education, in a variablenumber of subjects (usually a maximum of 8)selected by the pupil. The examinations,organised and certificated by the ScottishQualifications Authority (SQA), are mainlywritten but some include an oral or a practicalcomponent and assessment of course workover the year is taken into account. Thecertificate indicates the subjects examined andthe grade obtained by the pupil in each, on ascale from 1 to 4, (Credit (1 and 2) and

General (3 and 4) levels) and 5 to 7(Foundation level). Pupils may proceed tostudy for the � Scottish Certificate ofEducation – Higher Grade but it is not acondition for such study. It is a basicqualification for entry to training or work.Abbreviation: SCE – Standard Grade.

Scottish Group AwardCountry: United Kingdom (Scotland)Grammatical variants: Scottish Group Awards, SGA, SGAsLevel of education: Upper secondary/post-secondaryExplanatory note:A new qualification being introduced as partof the Higher Still reforms. This qualificationwill replace � General Scottish VocationalQualification. The qualification will be madeup of a number of individual Higher Stillcourses and units to provide a coherentcombination of subjects, and will be availableat all Higher Still levels above � Access 1;though some individual courses or unitswithin an SGA may be at a lower level thanthe overall level of the award. The SGA willbe of relevance to entry to a career, and entryto higher education. The ScottishQualifications Authority (SQA) awards thequalification, carries out external assessmentsand moderates internal assessments.Abbreviation: SGA.

Scottish Vocational QualificationCountry: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:A job-specific qualification based on actualworking practices in workplace conditions.The qualification is accredited by the ScottishQualifications Authority (SQA) and awardedby a range of awarding bodies including theSQA itself. It indicates which of five bands hasbeen achieved, level I being the basic level andlevel V the most complex. SVQs are equivalentto the NVQs awarded in the other parts of theUnited Kingdom. Abbreviation: SVQ.

SelectividadCountry: SpainLevel of education: Upper secondary


Explanatory note:Synonym of � Pruebas de Acceso a laUniversidad.

Senior Trade CertificateCountry: IrelandLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded at the end of 4 years ofapprenticeship.

SGACountry: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Upper secondary/post-secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Scottish Group Award.

Siv. ingCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Sivilingeniør.

Siv. økCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Siviløkonom.

SivilarkitektCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded to students whopass written and oral final examinations at theend of university studies lasting 5½ years inthe field of architecture. Each institution setsits own examinations, which are assessed bytwo examiners, of whom one is external. Thecertificate mentions the student’s results in theexaminations and the average of the marks inthe main subjects. It gives access toemployment and/or to a doctorate.

SivilingeniørCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded to students whopass written and oral final examinations at theend of university and non-university studies

lasting 4½ to 5 years in the field of engineering.The examinations are set by each institutionand assessed by two examiners, of whom one isexternal in order to avoid the possibility of bias.The certificate mentions the student’s results inthe examinations and the average of the marksin the main subjects. It gives access toemployment and/or to a doctorate.Abbreviation: Siv.ing.

SiviløkonomCountry: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded to students whopass written and oral final examinations at theend of non-university and university studieslasting 4 years in the field of economics andbusiness management. The examinations areset by each institution and assessed by twoexaminers, of whom one is external in orderto avoid the possibility of bias. The certificatementions the student’s results in theexaminations and the average of the marks inthe main subjects. It gives access toemployment and/or to university studies inthe same field. Abbreviation: Siv.øk.

SjuksköterskeexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Professional degree in the field of nursing,awarded after a 3-year programme of full-timestudy, which normally includes a degreeproject. The degree certificate normallymentions the subjects passed and the marks andgrades obtained. It gives access to employmentand general eligibility for doctoral studies.

SkolebevisCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Skolebeviset, Skolebeviser, Skolebeviserne Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by the educationalinstitution concerned to pupils whosuccessfully complete a programme ofvocational education and training. It contains


the name of the specialisation and the legalbasis of the programme, and a list of thesubjects studied. It also mentions the marksobtained for proficiency in the basic subjects,the area subjects and the special subjects and theexamination marks in the basic subjects, thethematic project and the practical test as well aspossible examination marks obtained in theoptional subjects. It gives access to employmentand, together with the � Uddannelsesbevis, tofurther studies at a higher level.

Slutbetyg från grundskolanCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -et, -en, -enLevel of education: Lower secondary Explanatory note:Leaving certificate at the end of compulsoryeducation (the 9-year grundskola). It isawarded on the basis of pupil assessmentthroughout the final year. The results of thenational examinations in Swedish, Englishand mathematics are taken into consideration,in order to ensure national comparability ofthe marks. The certificate mentions thesubjects of the courses followed and themarks obtained. Pupils with the minimumpass grades in Swedish, English andmathematics are given access to uppersecondary education.

Slutbetyg från gymnasieskolanCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -et, -en, -enLevel of education: Upper secondary Explanatory note:Leaving certificate at the end of uppersecondary education (the 3-yeargymnasieskola), awarded on the basis of themarks obtained for each course. In order tofacilitate standardisation of pupil assessment,the results of national examinations in somesubjects can be used. The certificate mentionsthe subjects of the courses followed and themarks obtained. It is a basic requirement forentry to higher education.

Social omsorgsexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: Higher

Explanatory note:Professional degree in the field of social care,awarded after a 2½-, 3- or 4-year programmeof full-time study, which normally includes adegree project. The degree certificatenormally mentions the subjects passed andthe marks and grades obtained. All degreesgive access to employment and generaleligibility for doctoral studies.

SocionomexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Professional degree in the field of socialwork, awarded after a 3½-year programme offull-time study, which normally includes adegree project. The degree certificatenormally mentions the subjects passed andthe marks and grades obtained. The degreegives access to employment and generaleligibility for doctoral studies.

SpecialiseringsexamenCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Erikoistumistutkinto.

Specialist po (+ field of study)((ССппееццииааллиисстт ппоо))

Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants: Specialisti poLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe � Diploma za zavurchena stepen navischeto obrazovanie qualification.

Specializzato in (+ field of study)Country: ItalyGrammatical variants: Specializzati in,Specializzata in, Specializzate inLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title attributed to students who have obtainedthe � Diploma di Specializzazione. It isaccompanied by the name of the fieldconcerned.


Staatliche AbschlussprüfungCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants:Staatliche Abschlußprüfung, Staatliche Abschlussprüfungen, Staatlich* Abschlussprüfung*Level of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Final examination on completion of aFachschule (lasting 1, 2 or 3 years) or aFachakademie in Bavaria (lasting at least 2years). It includes written, oral and practicaltests. Success in the examination confers theright to use an occupational title such asStaatlich geprüfter Techniker, Staatlichgeprüfter Betriebswirt, Staatlich anerkannterErzieher, etc. depending on the occupation.

StaatsexamenCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: StaatsexaminaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Synonym of � Staatsprüfung.

StaatsexamenCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: StaatsexamensLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving examination of mavo, havo or vwo,organised by the state. Pupils who pass aleaving examination before a board ofexaminers set up by the Minister forEducation, may obtain one of the followingdiplomas:� Diploma staatsexamen middelbaaralgemeen voortgezet onderwijs, � Diplomastaatsexamen hoger algemeen voortgezetonderwijs, � Diploma staatsexamen voor-bereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijs.In all subjects there is a written and an oralexamination. It is compulsory to sit Dutchplus one modern language. The staatsexamencovers a minimum of six subjects. It isequivalent to the � Eindexamen. It makes itpossible to obtain a diploma equivalent to thatin full-time education without beingregistered as a pupil at a school, i.e. withoutfollowing lessons at a school.

Staatsexamen havo, mavo, vwoCountry: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Staatsexamens havo,mavo, vwoLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:Abbreviation of Staatsexamen hoger alge-meen voortgezet onderwijs, Staatsexamenmiddelbaar algemeen voortgezet onderwijs,Staatsexamen voorbereidend wetenschappe-lijk onderwijs. See � Staatsexamen.

Staatsexamen hoger algemeen voortgezetonderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Staatsexamenshoger algemeen voortgezet onderwijsLevel of education: Lower/upper secondaryExplanatory note:See � Staatsexamen (school type havo).

Staatsexamen middelbaar algemeenvoortgezet onderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Staatsexamensmiddelbaar algemeen voortgezet onderwijsLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:See � Staatsexamen (school type mavo).

Staatsexamen voorbereidendwetenschappelijk onderwijs

Country: The NetherlandsGrammatical variants: Staatsexamensvoorbereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:See � Staatsexamen (school type vwo).

StaatsprüfungCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Staatsprüfungen,Staatsprüfung*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Final examination for university courses ofstudy leading to professions in which there isa particular public interest, such as medicine,dentistry, veterinary medicine, pharmacy,food chemistry and jurisprudence, andcourses leading to the teaching profession.


When they have passed the examination,candidates in medical and pharmaceuticalcourses can apply in writing for theApprobation that will entitle them to practisethe profession and use the professional title. The Erste Staatsprüfung (first State examination)usually consists of a written dissertation andwritten and oral examinations, but there arevariations specific to individual Länder. It isusually both an academic and a vocationalqualification. An additional Vorbereitungsdienst(preparatory service) leading to the ZweiteStaatsprüfung (second State examination) iscompulsory after the Erste Staatsprüfung forstudents studying to become teachers or lawyers.Only this Zweite Staatsprüfung gives access tothese professions, as teachers or judges.The Zweite Staatsprüfung usually consists ofa dissertation and written and oralexaminations, but there are variations specificto each Land. Practical experience from theVorbereitungsdienst is also included in thisexamination.Synonym: Staatsexamen.

Štátna skúškaCountry: SlovakiaGrammatical variants:Štátne skúšky, Štátna skúška*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Final examination at the end of short-term (3 or 4years) or long-term (4 to 6 years) universitystudies. It includes oral examinations in the fieldof study pursued and the defence of a finalwritten dissertation (obhajoba závereènej práce

or obhajoba diplomovej práce), compulsory ifthe faculty requires it. Successful studentsreceive the diploma � Diplom indicating thefield of study pursued, and the certificate �Vysvedèenie o �tátnej skú�ke.

Státní doktorská zkouškaCountry: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants: Státní doktorskézkoušky, Státní* doktorsk* zkoušk*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Compulsory oral examination including thedefence of a thesis (disertaèní práce), organisedat the end of post-graduate studies lasting 3

years (doctorate). Successful students receivethe � Vysokoškolský diplom degree and the �Vysvìdèení o státní doktorské zkou�ce

certificate. The content and organisation of theexamination are determined by the faculty.

Státní rigorózní zkouškaCountry: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants: Státní rigoróznízkoušky, Státní* rigorózní* zkoušk*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Compulsory oral examination including thedefence of a final written dissertation(rigorózní práce) (with the exception ofmedicine and veterinary students whose Státnírigorózní zkouška does not include it), aimed atstudents who have been awarded the title �Magistr and wish to obtain the title � Doktor,abbreviated to JUDr., PhDr., RNDr., PharmDr.,ThDr., MUDr. or MVDr., or � Licenciátabbreviated to ThLic. (in the field of Catholictheology) certified by the � Vysokoškolskýdiplom degree and the � Vysvìdèení o státní

rigorózní zkou�ce certificate. The organisationand content are determined by each faculty.

Státní závìreèná zkou�ka

Country: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants: Státní závìreènézkou�ky, Státní* závìreèn* zkou�k*

Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:• Examination organised at the end of

university or non-university higher educationlasting 3 to 4 years, including the defence ofa final written dissertation (bakaláøskápráce). Successful students receive the �Vysokoškolský diplom degree and the �Vysvìdèení o státní závìreèné zkou�ce

certificate. The content and organisation aredetermined by each institution and varydepending on the duration and field of study.

• Examination organised at the end ofuniversity studies lasting 4 to 6 years or 2 to3 years after the � Bakaláø degree,including the defence of a final writtendissertation (diplomová práce). Successfulstudents receive the � Vysokoškolskýdiplom degree and the � Vysvìdèení o

státní závìreèné zkou�ce certificate. The


content and organisation of the examinationare determined by the university and varydepending on the duration and field of study.

StudentCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants:Studenten, Studenter, StudenternaLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Ylioppilas.

StúdentCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: StúdentsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Title awarded to pupils who pass the �Stúdentspróf examination and obtain the �Stúdentsprófsskírteini certificate at the end ofupper secondary general education.

StudentereksamenCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants:Studentereksamenen, Studentereksamener,StudentereksamenerneLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Examination taken on completion of a 3-yearupper secondary general course or a 2-year adultupper secondary general course (studenterkur-sus), organised by the Ministry of Education. Itconsists of nationally coordinated written exa-minations plus oral examinations held in the pre-sence of external examiners, and a major writtenassignment. It leads to the award of the � Stu-dentereksamensbevis.

StudentereksamensbevisCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Studentereksamensbeviset, Studentereksamensbeviser, StudentereksamensbeviserneLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded upon successfulcompletion of the � Studentereksamen. Itcontains the marks for the year’s work in thesubjects which form part of the �Studentereksamen, the examination marks,

including the mark for the year’s work insubjects which were not examined, theaverage of the marks for the year’s work, theaverage of all the examination marks and theexamination result, which is the average ofthe two foregoing averages. It is a basicqualification for entry to higher education.

StudentexamenCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Ylioppilastutkinto.

StudentexamensbetygCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: -betyget, -betygenLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Ylioppilastutkintotodistus.

StúdentsprófCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: Stúdentsprófi,StúdentsprófsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Examinations held at the end of upper secondarygeneral education lasting 4 years, compulsoryfor obtaining the � Stúdentsprófsskírteinicertificate. All of the subjects taught are coveredin the final assessment, including Icelandic,mathematics, sciences and foreign languages,and this is under the entire responsibility of eachschool. The tests are spread over 4 years ofstudy, but the main part of the examination isheld at the end of the final year.

Stúdentsprófsskírteini Country: IcelandGrammatical variants:StúdentsprófsskírteiniLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of upper secondarygeneral education, awarded to pupils whopass the � Stúdentspróf examination. Itconfers the title � Stúdent. It mentions theprogramme studied by the student, thesubjects passed and the marks obtained in the


tests. This qualification is recognised for entryto higher education.

StudiegetuigschriftCountry: Belgium (Flemish Community)Grammatical variants: StudiegetuigschriftenLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils who pass thefinal examinations (written or oral) set at theend of upper secondary vocational, technicalor art education. The examinations are aimedat pupils who have not taken the �Getuigschrift (tweede graad secundaironderwijs). They are set by the individualschool and cover all the subjects studied. Thecertificate mentions the school year, the typeof education and the branch. It can be takeninto account for the admission of the pupil tothe next level of education.

StudienberechtigungsprüfungCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants:Studienberechtigungsprüfungen,Studienberechtigungsprüfung*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Entrance examination taken at the institutionin question by those who wish to obtain arestricted right to enter higher education or tostudy at a specific post-secondary institution(Akademie). The examination includes bothwritten and oral parts. The content of theexamination relates to the desired course ofstudy (University, Akademie etc.).

StudienberechtigungszeugnisCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants:Studienberechtigungszeugnisse,Studienberechtigungszeugnis*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to those who succeed inthe � Studienberechtigungsprüfung. It givesrestricted access to higher education. Thecertificate is awarded as soon as theexamination is passed and it indicates thefields of study in which the candidate mayenrol.

SveinnCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants: Svein, Sveini, SveinsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Title (journeyman) conferred on apprenticeswho obtain the � Sveinsbréf certificate.

SveinsbréfCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants:Sveinsbréfi, SveinsbréfsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of vocational training in a certifiedtrade, awarded to pupils who pass the �Sveinspróf (journeyman’s examination) at theend of vocational training. It confers the title� Sveinn (journeyman). It mentions thespecialisation and the average of the resultsobtained in the examination. It gives access tothe trade and to a 1- or 3-year course leadingto the title � Meistari (master craftsman).

SveinsprófCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants:Sveinsprófi, SveinsprófsLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Journeyman’s examination at the end of a 4-year vocational training in a certified trade inschool and the workplace. It is compulsoryfor obtaining the � Sveinsbréf certificate.The examination, which includes boththeoretical and practical parts, is set andorganised by a special committee,representing both sides of industry.

SvendebrevCountry: DenmarkLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Synonym of � Uddannelsesbevis.

SvendeprøveCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants:Svendeprøve, Svendeprøver, Svendeprøverne


Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Journeyman’s test held at the end of thetechnical vocational education and trainingprogrammes, organised by the educationalinstitution after consultation with the tradecommittee concerned and taken afterobtaining the � Skolebevis. It consists of apractical test of the pupil’s skills by anexamining board comprised of masters of thetrade or craft, with an equal number ofemployers and employees. It gives access toemployment. The title that it confers isidentical to the title of the trade or craftconcerned.

SvennebrevCountry: NorwayGrammatical variants:Svennebrevet, SvennebreveneLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of craft qualification awarded toapprentices who pass the � Svenneprøve(journeyman’s examination) at the end of avocational training course. It is awarded byupper secondary schools. It specifies thesubjects and results of the examination. Itgives access to the trade or occupation.

SvenneprøveCountry: NorwayGrammatical variants:Svenneprøver, SvenneprøveneLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Craft examination organised at the end of anapprenticeship in a firm or upper secondaryschool; it is a prerequisite for obtaining a �Svennebrev. It is aimed at pupils who takecourses lasting 3 years in an upper secondaryschool and external candidates. Schools and/orfirms develop the contents of this examinationon the basis of the training programme in theparticular sector and in accordance with thedirectives of the Ministry of Education. Theexamination includes three sections – planning,implementation and documentation relevant tocarrying out a practical task. Externalcandidates must pass theoretical examinationsrelating to the trade or profession.

Svidetelstvo za natchalno obrazovanie((ССввииддееттееллссттввоо ззаа ннааччааллнноо ооббррааззооввааннииее))

Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants:Svidetelstva za natchalno obrazovanieLevel of education: PrimaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of primaryeducation lasting 4 years, awarded on thebasis of class marks, without a finalexamination. The subjects and the marksobtained in the final year are indicated. Itgives access to lower secondary education.

Svidetelstvo za osnovno obrazovanie((ССввииддееттееллссттввоо ззаа ооссннооввнноо ооббррааззооввааннииее))

Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants:Svidetelstva za osnovno obrazovanieLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of lower secondaryeducation, awarded on the basis of schoolmarks, without a final examination. It indicatesthe subjects taken and the marks obtained at theend of the final year. It gives access to uppersecondary education and/or to employment.

Svidetelstvo za profesionalna kvalifikasia((ССввииддееттееллссттввоо ззаа ппррооффеессииооннааллннааккввааллииффииккаацциияя))

Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants:Svidetelstva za profesionalna kvalifikasiaLevel of education: Lower secondary/uppersecondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of vocational qualification,awarded to pupils who pass the � Izpit poteoria i praktika na profesiata examination atthe end of secondary vocational and technicaleducation. It confers the title � Rabotnik (inschools of vocational education) or �Technik (in schools of technical education). Itindicates the marks obtained in theexamination and the title awarded. It givesaccess to the trade or occupation.

SVQCountry: United Kingdom (Scotland)Level of education: Post-secondary


Explanatory note:Abbreviation of � Scottish VocationalQualification.

�wiadectwo dojrza³o�ci

Country: PolandGrammatical variants: �wiadectwadojrza³o�ci, �wiadectw* dojrza³o�ci

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by schools of uppersecondary general and vocational education topupils who have completed the studyprogramme and passed the � Egzamin

dojrza³o�ci examination. This certificatementions the courses and the marks obtainedon completion of the school, as well as themarks in the examination. Awarded in uppersecondary vocational and technical schools, itmentions occupational titles as well. It is aqualification required for admission touniversity or non-university higher education.Synonym: �wiadectwo maturalne.

�wiadectwo maturalne

Country: PolandGrammatical variants: �wiadectwamaturalne, �wiadectw* maturaln*

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Synonym of � �wiadectwo dojrza³o�ci.

�wiadectwo ukoñczenia liceum

ogólnokszta³c¹cego

Country: PolandGrammatical variants: �wiadectwaukoñczenia liceum ogólnokszta³c¹cego,

�wiadectw* ukoñczenia liceum

ogólnokszta³c¹cego

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of upper secondarygeneral education (4 years), awarded on thebasis of school results, without a finalexamination. It mentions the subjects and themarks obtained at the end of the final year. Itgives access to the � Egzamin dojrza³o�ci

examination and/or to post-secondaryeducation.

�wiadectwo ukoñczenia liceum technicznego

Country: PolandGrammatical variants: �wiadectwaukoñczenia liceum technicznego,

�wiadectw* ukoñczenia liceum

technicznego

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by schools of uppersecondary technical education (4 years) topupils at the end of the final year, on the basisof school results, without a final examination.It mentions the final marks and thespecialisation. It gives access to the trade oroccupation and/or to the � Egzamin

dojrza³o�ci examination.

�wiadectwo ukoñczenia liceum zawodowego

Country: PolandGrammatical variants:�wiadectwa ukoñczenia liceum zawodowego,

�wiadectw* ukoñczenia liceum zawodowego

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by schools of uppersecondary vocational education (4 years) topupils in the final year who have passed the� Egzamin z nauki zawodu examination. Itmentions the marks obtained in the differentsubjects at the end of the final year, the marksin the examination, as well as thespecialisation. It gives access to the trade oroccupation and/or to the � Egzamindojrza³o�ci examination.

�wiadectwo ukoñczenia szko³y podstawowej

Country: PolandGrammatical variants: �wiadectwa ukoñczenia szko³y podstawowej,

�wiadectw* ukoñczenia szko³y podstawowej

Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of compulsoryeducation organised in a single structure (8years), awarded by the schools attended onthe basis of class marks, without a finalexamination. It mentions the subjects studiedand the marks obtained at the end of the finalyear of studies. This certificate is required inorder to proceed to upper secondaryeducation.


�wiadectwo ukoñczenia szko³y zasadniczej

Country: PolandGrammatical variants: �wiadectwa ukoñczenia szko³y zasadniczej,

�wiadectw* ukoñczenia szko³y zasadniczej

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of basic vocationaleducation (3 years), awarded on the basis ofthe marks in the � Egzamin z nauki zawoduexamination, conferring the title � Robotnikwykwalifikowany. It mentions the subjects andthe marks obtained during the final year, themarks in the examination, as well as thespecialisation. It gives access to the trade oroccupation and/or to upper secondaryeducation (full-time or at evening classes),preparing for � Egzamin dojrza³o�ciexamination.

�wiadectwo ukoñczenia technikum

zawodowego

Country: PolandGrammatical variants: �wiadectwaukoñczenia technikum zawodowego,

�wiadectw* ukoñczenia technikum

zawodowego

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of upper secondarytechnical education (5 years), awarded by theschool attended on the basis of the results inthe final year of studies and the marks in the� Egzamin z przygotowania do zawoduexamination. It mentions the subjects and themarks in the final year, the marks in theexamination, and the title � Technik which itconfers. It gives access to the trade oroccupation and/or entitlement to sit the �Egzamin dojrza³o�ci examination.

Szakképz�o iskolai képesítõ bizonyítvány

Country: HungaryLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of training in anapprentice training school (Szakiskola) over 1or 2 years. Awarded to trainees who havepassed the � Szakmai vizsga. It confers thetitle � Szakmunkás and gives access toemployment as a skilled worker.

Szakközépiskolai bizonyítvány

Country: HungaryGrammatical variants:Szakközépiskolai bizonyítványok,Szakközépiskolai bizonyítvány* Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of upper secondaryvocational studies lasting 4 or 5 years, awardedby schools on the basis of class marks, withouta final examination. It mentions the subjectsstudied and the final marks obtained. It isrequired for pupils to proceed to the � Szakmaivizsga or � Szakközépiskolai érettségi-

képesítõ vizsga examinations.

Szakközépiskolai érettségi-képesítõ

bizonyítvány

Country: HungaryGrammatical variants:Szakközépiskolai érettségi-képesítõ

bizonyítványok, Szakközépiskolai érettségi-

képesítõ bizonyítvány*

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by schools to pupils whopass the combined � Szakközépiskolaiérettségi-képesítõ vizsga examination at theend of upper secondary vocational studieslasting 4 or 5 years. It mentions thespecialisation, the subjects and the marks inthe examination. It confers the title �Szakmunkás in an occupation. It gives accessto the occupation and/or higher education.

Szakközépiskolai érettségi-képesítõ vizsgaCountry: HungaryGrammatical variants: Szakközépiskolai érettségi-képesítõ vizsgát,

Szakközépiskolai érettségi-képesítõ vizsga*

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Final examination, held at the end of uppersecondary vocational education lasting 4 to 5years. It is aimed at pupils who have obtained the� Szakközépiskolai bizonyítvány certificate. Itleads to the combined � Szakközépiskolaiérettségi-képesítõ bizonyítvány certificate. Itconsists of written, oral and practicalexaminations covering both general andvocational subjects. The written part in the


academic and in the vocational subjects is set bythe Ministry of Education. The oral part and thepractical assessment are determined by eachschool.

Szakközépiskolai képesítõ bizonyítvány

Country: HungaryLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of upper secondaryvocational studies lasting 4 or 5 years, awardedby the vocational schools (Szakközépiskola) topupils who pass the vocational � Szakmaivizsga examination. It gives access toemployment as a skilled worker.

Szakmai vizsga

Country: HungaryGrammatical variants: Szakmai vizsgát,Szakmai vizsgák, Szakmai vizsgákat Level of education: Upper secondary/higherExplanatory note:• A general term for the vocational examination

held at the end of upper secondary vocationaleducation in different branches. It leads tocertificates which differ depending on the typeand duration of studies: � Szakképzõ iskolai-képesítõ bizonyítvány, � Szakmunkásképzõ iskolai-képesítõ bizonyítvány or �

Szakközépiskolai-képesítõ bizonyítvány. Itincludes written, oral and practicalexaminations, the requirements for which aredetermined by the Ministry of Labour,varying in line with the type of vocationaleducation.

• Compulsory examination, held at the end ofaccredited non-university higher vocationalcourses organised within the school system.It leads to the higher vocationalqualification � Felsõfokú szakképesítést

igazoló bizonyítvány. The tests are set byeach institution and vary according to thefield of study. The level of requirements forthis examination is defined in the NationalRegister of Qualifications.

SzakmunkásCountry: HungaryLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Title of vocational training, awarded by allinstitutions of upper secondary vocationaleducation to pupils who pass the � Szakmaivizsga or the combined type of �Szakközépiskolai érettségi-képesítõ vizsga

examination.

Szakmunkásképzõ iskolai bizonyítványCountry: HungaryGrammatical variants: Szakmunkásképzõiskolai bizonyítványok, Szakmunkásképzõiskolai bizonyítvány*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of upper secondaryvocational education lasting 3 years, awardedon the basis of class marks, without a finalexamination. It mentions the subjects studiedand marks obtained during the studies and onassessment of job skills. It is compulsory forbeing allowed to sit the examination �Szakmai vizsga.

Szakmunkásképzõ iskolai-képesítõbizonyítvány

Country: HungaryGrammatical variants: Szakmunkásképzõ iskolai-képesítõbizonyítványok, Szakmunkásképzõ iskolai-képesítõ bizonyítvány*Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of vocational training, issued byinstitutions of vocational education(Szakmunkásképzõ iskola) lasting 3 years, topupils who have passed the examination �Szakmai vizsga. It confers the title �Szakmunkás in a given occupation. Thiscertificate gives access to the occupationand/or to upper secondary education (eveningclasses).


Technicien brevetéCountry: FranceLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Synonym of � Agent technique breveté.

Technicien supérieurCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title conferred on students who have obtainedthe � Brevet de technicien supérieur.

Technik

Country: PolandGrammatical variants: Technicy, Technik*Level of education: Upper secondary/post-secondaryExplanatory note:Title awarded by upper secondary technicalschools to pupils who have obtained thecertificate � �wiadectwo ukoñczeniatechnikum zawodowego or by post-secondaryschools (2 to 2½ years) to graduates who haveobtained the � Dyplom ukoñczenia szko³ypolicealnej.

Technik ((ТТееххнниикк))Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants: TechnitziLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Title conferred to pupils who have obtainedthe � Svidetelstvo za profesionalnakvalifikasia certificate at the end of uppersecondary technical education.

TechnikusCountry: HungaryGrammatical variants:Technikust, TechnikusokLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Title of technician, awarded to pupils whohave obtained the � Technikusi oklevél.

Technikusi oklevélCountry: HungaryGrammatical variants: Technikusi oklevelet,Technikusi oklevelek, Technikusi okleveleketLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification of technician in a givenoccupation, awarded to pupils who complete1 year of supplementary technical training inan institution of upper secondary vocationaleducation and pass the � Technikusképesítõvizsga examination. It confers the title �Technikus. It mentions the subject and themarks obtained in the examination. It givesaccess to employment.

Technikusképesítõ vizsgaCountry: HungaryGrammatical variants:Technikusképesítõ vizsgát, Technikusképesítõvizsgák, Technikusképesítõ vizsgánLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Practical examination, held at the end of oneyear of supplementary technical training (ininstitutions of upper secondary vocationaleducation). It leads to the � Technikusi oklevél

T t


qualification which confers the title � Technikus.It includes advanced written and oral tests of thestudent’s practical and theoretical knowledge.

TecnicoCountry: ItalyGrammatical variants: TecniciLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Title conferred on pupils who have obtained the�Diploma di superamento dell’esame di Statoconclusivo dei corsi di studio di istruzionesecondaria superiore in an istituto professionale.

Técnico Auxiliar en (+ specialisation)Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Técnica Auxiliar en,Técnicos Auxiliares enLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded at the end of lowersecondary vocational education (FormaciónProfesional de primer grado – FP I) lasting 2years, under the education system in effectprior to the 1990 reform, to pupils who havepassed their continuous assessment in allsubjects. It mentions the specialisation. It givesaccess to employment, or to upper secondaryvocational training (Formación profesional desegundo grado – FP II) or to upper secondarygeneral education (Bachillerato Unificado yPolivalente – BUP), where they may begranted credit for some subject areas and enrolto take the second year along with the first yearsubjects for which they have not been grantedcredit, in the old system of education; and toupper secondary general education(Bachillerato) or upper secondary vocationaltraining (Formación profesional específica degrado medio) in the new system.

Técnico en (+ specialisation)Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Técnica en, TécnicosenLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded at the end ofupper secondary vocational training lasting 1or 2 years, established by the 1990 OrganicLaw on the General Organisation of the

Education System (Ley Orgánica deOrdenación General del Sistema Educativo –LOGSE) to pupils who have passed in theircontinuous assessment in all subjects. Itmentions the specialisation. The certificategives access to upper secondary generaleducation (Bachillerato) or to employment.

Técnico Especialista en (+ specialisation)Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Técnica Especialistaen, Técnicos Especialistas enLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded at the end of uppersecondary vocational education (FormaciónProfesional de segundo grado – FPII) lasting 2or 3 years under the education system in effectprior to the 1990 reform to pupils who havepassed their continuous assessment in allsubjects. It mentions the specialisation. It givesaccess to the first cycle of certain universitystudies and to employment.

Técnico Superior en (+ specialisation)Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Técnica Superior en,Técnicos Superiores enLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate and title awarded at the end ofadvanced non-university vocational studies(Formación profesional específica de gradosuperior defined by the 1990 Organic Law onthe General Organisation of the EducationSystem – Ley Orgánica de OrdenaciónGeneral del Sistema Educativo – LOGSE)usually lasting 2 years to students who havepassed in their continuous assessment in allsubjects. It mentions the specialisation. Itgives access to the first cycle of certainuniversity studies and to employment.

Tezã de doctorat

Country: RomaniaGrammatical variants: Teza de doctoratLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination of completion of a doctoralprogramme lasting 4 years held by universityinstitutions or by scientific researchinstitutions. It is compulsory for obtaining the


qualification � Diplomã de doctor and thetitle � Doctor. It consists of the public defenceof a thesis, assessed by experts appointed bythe council of the organising institution.

Th.D.Country: Czech RepublicLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor in the field oftheology. See � Doktor (third paragraph).

ThDr.Country: Czech RepublicLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor in the field oftheology. See � Doktor (second paragraph).

ThDr.Country: SlovakiaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Doktor in the field oftheology.

Theologische AbschlussprüfungCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants:Theologische Abschlußprüfung, Theologische Abschlussprüfungen, Theologisch* Abschlussprüfung*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Final examination in first degree course inProtestant theology at a university orKirchliche Hochschule that can be taken as aFakultätsexamen, � Diplomprüfung, �Magisterprüfung or examination by the Churchin the particular Land (� KirchlicheAbschlussprüfung) and provides a qualificationgiving access to the profession. Whereas onlymembers of the Faculty sit on the examinationboard for the Fakultätsexamen, �

Diplomprüfung and � Magisterprüfung,representatives of the Church also participate inthe Kirchliche Abschlussprüfung (examinationfor service in the Church). An examination bythe Church in the particular Land is aprerequisite for access to the curacy, but theaverage mark in the final examination is also

decisive in determining employment in theservice of the Church.

Thèse d’ÉtatCountry: FranceLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Qualification replaced by the � Habilitationà diriger des recherches since 1994.

ThLic.Country: Czech RepublicLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Abbreviation of � Licenciát teologie in thefield of Catholic theology.

Titulado Superior en (+ specialisation)Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Titulada Superior en,Titulados Superiores enLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who have obtainedthe degree � Título Superior en. It is followedby the name of the specialisation.

Título profesional del grado medio de(+ specialisation)

Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Títulos profesionalesdel grado medio deLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded at the end of 6 years of theintermediate level of dance or music studies topupils who pass in the continuous assessmentduring these studies. It involves two areas ofspecialisation, music and dance, and mentionsthe subjects taken and the field studied. Thiscertificate entitles pupils to take the entranceexaminations for higher music or dance studies.

Título Superior en (+ specialisation)Country: SpainGrammatical variants: Títulos Superiores enLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Degree awarded at the end of studies inadvanced level music and dance, dramatic artand the conservation and restoration of artistic


objects to students who have passed in thecontinuous assessment during these studies.The certificate mentions the specialisation. Itgives access to the profession and/or to a �Doctorado en. The degree in music, dance, ordramatic art studies corresponds to the �Licenciatura en. The degree in theconservation and restoration of artistic objectscorresponds to the � Diplomatura en. Itconfers the title � Titulado Superior en.

Todistus oppisopimuskoulutuksestaCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: todistukse-, todistuksetLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded after completion ofapprenticeship training (oppisopimuskoulutus).The certificate is based on assessments of thetrainee’s performance by the employer and bythe teacher in the theoretical subjects. Itindicates the basic curriculum followed and,where relevant, the specialisation, the durationof the training and the average of the marksobtained. This certificate, however, only atteststo participation in the training. To enteremployment, the trainee must take the �Näyttötutkinto. Swedish term: Betyg överläroavtalsutbildning.

Todistus toisen asteen ammatillisistaopinnoista

Country: FinlandGrammatical variants: todistukse-, todistuksetLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded at the end of uppersecondary vocational education. Thequalification awarded is the � Ammatillinenperustutkinto. It gives access to employmentor to higher level studies. Swedish term: Betygöver avlagd yrkesexamen på andra stadiet.

Todistus yhdistelmäopinnoistaCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: todistukse-, todistuksetLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:An experimental qualification for uppersecondary pupils who wish to combine bothgeneral and vocational studies. It is awarded

at the end of such education without a finalexamination to pupils who pass in thecontinuous assessment over the course. Thecertificate indicates the subjects taken andmarks obtained in them. It gives access toemployment and also to higher leveleducation. Swedish term: Betyg överkombinationsstudier.

Toetsen basisvormingCountry: The NetherlandsLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Tests for each subject in the core curriculumof basisvorming (with the exception ofphysical education). The tests, developedunder the responsibility of the Minister forEducation, are compulsory. The pupils takethe tests at a moment to be decided by theschool, to end the period of basisvorming (atthe end of the second year at the earliest). Acertificate is awarded to pupils who pass allthe tests � Getuigschrift basisvorming.

TohtoriCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: Tohtori-, TohtoritLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Title awarded to students who hold the �Tohtorintutkinto degree. Swedish term:Doktor.

TohtorintutkintoCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: tutkinno-, tutkinto-,tutkinnotLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Doctor’s degree, requiring approximately 4years of full-time study after the � Maisterintutkinto or approximately 2 years after the �Lisensiaatintutkinto. Students prepare adoctoral thesis, which is publicly disputedand assessed by two or more impartialexaminers appointed by the university orfaculty. Swedish term: Doktors examen.


Transfer Procedure TestsCountry: United Kingdom (NI)Level of education: Primary Explanatory note:Tests in English, mathematics and scienceused to select pupils for selective (grammar)

schools. Set by the Northern Ireland Councilfor the Curriculum, Examinations andAssessment (CCEA). The results areexpressed on a six-point scale, and grammarschools are required to admit pupils strictly inorder of test grades.


UddannelsesbevisCountry: DenmarkGrammatical variants: Uddannelsesbeviset,Uddannelsesbeviser, UddannelsesbeviserneLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of completion of studies awardedby the trade committee concerned, certifyingsuccessful completion of a vocational

education and training programme and theacquisition of competence within thespecialisation. It contains the name of thespecialisation and refers to the � Skolebevis,and the practical training statement (obtainedfrom the practical training place). It givesaccess to employment and, together with the� Skolebevis, to further studies at a higherlevel.

U u


VeterinärexamenCountry: SwedenGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Professional degree in the field of veterinarymedicine, awarded after a 5½-yearprogramme of full-time study, which includesa degree project. The degree certificatementions the subjects passed. The degreegives access to employment and generaleligibility for doctoral studies.

VitnemålCountry: NorwayGrammatical variants:Vitnemålet, VitnemåleneLevel of education: Lower secondary/uppersecondaryExplanatory note:• School-leaving certificate awarded to all

pupils when they leave compulsory schoolafter 10 years. It lists the subjects studied,with a mark for overall achievement ineach subject. The basis for determiningthese marks in the various subjects is thecompetence the pupils have reached in thatsubject at the time of giving the mark,according to the aims, objectives and areasof study in the subject syllabuses. Theresults of the examination are alsomentioned in the vitnemål. This certificategives access to upper secondary education.

• School-leaving certificate awarded at theend of upper secondary education from oneof the areas of study which gives access to

college or university education, to pupils inthe final year who pass the � Eksamen fravideregående opplæring examination. Theresults of the examination are included.

Vitnemål (+ name of higher educationinstitution + field of study)

Country: NorwayLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate of advanced professionalqualification awarded to students who passwritten and oral final examinations at the endof a programme of non-university studies invarious specialisations. The duration of thecourses varies from 1 to 4 years depending onthe type of study. The Ministry of Education,Research and Church Affairs establishes thecurricula (programmes) for somespecialisations. The examinations areorganised and set by each institution andassessed by two examiners, of whom one isexternal in order to avoid the possibility ofbias. The certificate mentions the student’sresults in the courses taken and the average ofthe marks in the main subjects. It gives accessto the profession and/or to other highereducation. It is always followed by the nameof the specialisation in which it was awarded,for example vitnemål allmennlærerutdanningin the field of teacher training for teachers atthe level of compulsory education, vitnemålbioingeniørutdanning in the field oflaboratory techniques and vitnemålfysioterapeututdanning in the field ofphysiotherapy.

V v


Vitnisburður um nám í grunnskólaCountry: IcelandGrammatical variants:Vitnisburð, Vitnisburði, VitnisburðarLevel of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to pupils on completionof compulsory education, indicating the marksobtained in the nationally coordinated �Samræmd lokapróf examinations and in allother courses completed in their final year ofcompulsory education as well as marks givenby the school in the nationally coordinatedexamination subjects. It gives access to uppersecondary education.

VordiplomCountry: LiechtensteinGrammatical variants: Vordiplome, Vordiplom*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded to students who pass theintermediate examination (with the samename) at the end of the 2-year basic course ofstudy (Grundstudium) at the FachhochschuleLiechtenstein. The examination includesinternally set examinations in the basicsubjects of the particular course. Thecertificate indicates the subjects studied, themarks obtained in the first year and theexamination results. Successful students mayproceed to the main course of study(Hauptstudium).

Vysoko�kolský diplom

Country: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants: Vysoko�kolskédiplomy, Vysoko�kolsk* diplom*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:• Degree awarded at the end of university or

non-university higher education lasting 3 to4 years, to students who pass the � Státní

závìreèná zkou�ka final examination,including the defence of a final writtendissertation (bakaláøská práce). It confersthe title � Bakaláø. The degree mentions thespecialisation and the title awarded. Studentsmay pursue master’s studies and/or enteremployment.

• Degree awarded at the end of 4 to 6 yearsof university studies (or 2 to 3 yearsfollowing the bachelor studies) to studentswho pass the � Státní závìreèná zkou�ka

examination, including the defence of afinal written dissertation (diplomovápráce) (with the exception of the faculty ofmedicine and veterinary medicine wherestudies are completed by � Státnírigorózní zkouška). It confers the title �Doktor, � In�enýr or � Magistr,depending on the duration and type ofstudies. Holders of the title � Magistr areadmitted to the � Státní rigorózní zkouškaexamination. All graduates may haveaccess to post-graduate studies (doctorate)and/or to employment.

• Degree awarded at the end of post-graduate studies (doctorate) lasting 3 yearsto students who pass the � Státnídoktorská zkouška final examination,including the defence of a thesis(disertaèní práce). It confers the title �Doktor. It gives access to employment.

Vysvìdèení o absolutoriu

Country: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants:Vysvìdèení* o absolutoriu

Level of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded for success in the �Absolutorium at post-secondary technicalschool and conservatoire.

Vysvìdèení o maturitní zkou�ce

Country: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants:Vysvìdèení* o maturitní zkou�ce

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by schools of general,technical and upper secondary vocationaleducation, to pupils who pass the �Maturitní zkouška examination. It mentionsthe subjects and the marks obtained in theexamination. In the case of upper secondaryvocational and technical schools it alsomentions the specialisation. It is a basicqualification for entry to university or non-university higher education.


Vysvìdèení o státní doktorské zkou�ce

Country: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants:Vysvìdèení* o státní doktorské zkou�ce

Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate of successful completion of the �Státní doktorská zkouška final examinationand the defence of a thesis (disertaèní práce)at the end of post-graduate studies (doctorate).Students are awarded the title � Doktor withthe abbreviation: Ph.D., in the field oftheology: Th.D.

Vysvìdèení o státní rigorózní zkou�ce

Country: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants:Vysvìdèení* o státní rigorózní zkou�ce

Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate of successful completion of the �Státní rigorózní zkouška final examination,including the defence of a final writtendissertation (rigorózní práce). Thisexamination is taken by students who haveobtained the title � Magistr. They areawarded the title � Doktor or � Licenciát (inthe field of Catholic theology).

Vysvìdèení o státní závìreèné zkou�ce

Country: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants:Vysvìdèení* o státní závìreèné zkou�ce

Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:• Certificate of successful completion of the� Státní závìreèná zkou�ka finalexamination and of the defence of a finalwritten dissertation (bakaláøská práce),awarded following undergraduate studies(3 to 4 years) at university or an institutionof non-university higher education.Holders are awarded the title � Bakaláø

and may pursue university studies or enteremployment.

• Certificate of successful completion of the� Státní závìreèná zkou�ka finalexamination, including the defence of afinal written dissertation (diplomová práce)following 4 to 6 years of study at universityor 2 to 3 years after the � Bakaláø degree.

Students are awarded the title � Magistror � In�enýr. Students may pursue post-graduate studies (doctorate) or enteremployment.

Vysvìdèení o závìreèné zkou�ce

Country: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants:Vysvìdèení* o závìreèné zkou�ce

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by upper secondarytechnical or vocational schools (courseslasting less than 4 years) to pupils who passthe � Závìreèná zkou�ka examination. Itmentions the specialisation, the subjects andthe marks obtained in the examination. Thiscertificate gives access to employment.

Vysvedèenie o maturitnej skú�ke

Country: SlovakiaGrammatical variants:Vysvedèenia o maturitných skú�kach,

Vysvedèenie o maturitnej skú�ke*

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of upper secondarygeneral, specialised and vocational education,awarded to pupils who pass the finalexamination �Maturitna skúška. It mentionsthe subjects studied and the examinationmarks. In schools of specialised andvocational education, it also mentions thespecialisation. This certificate is a basicqualification for entry to higher educationand/or to employment.

Vysvedèenie o �tátnej skú�ke

Country: SlovakiaGrammatical variants:Vysvedèenia o �tátných skú�kách,

Vysvedèenie o �tátnej skú�ke*

Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Certificate awarded by the institutions at theend of short-term university studies (3 or 4years) or following 4 to 6 years of advanceduniversity studies to students who have passedthe � Štátna skúška and defended a finalwritten dissertation (obhajoba závereènej

práce or obhajoba diplomovej práce).


Vysvedèenie o závereènej skú�ke

Country: SlovakiaGrammatical variants:Vysvedèenia o závereèných skú�kach,

Vysvedèenie o závereènej skú�ke*

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Leaving certificate of upper secondary short-term vocational and specialised education (lessthan 4 years), issued to pupils who pass the �Závereèna skú�ka examination. It mentionsthe specialisation, the subjects studied and theexamination marks. This certificate is alwaysaccompanied by a vocational proficiencycertificate � Výuèný list. It gives access toemployment and/or to courses leading to the� Maturitná skúška examination.

Výuèní list

Country: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants: Výuèní listy, Výuèní* list*

Level of education: Upper secondary

Explanatory note:Certificate awarded by upper secondaryvocational schools (courses lasting less than4 years) to pupils who pass the � Závìreèná

zkou�ka examination in vocational fields. Itgives access to employment and/or toextension courses (nástavbové studium).

Výuèný list

Country: SlovakiaGrammatical variants:Výuèné listy, Výuèný list*

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Vocational proficiency certificate awarded atthe end of upper secondary vocational andspecialised education to pupils who pass the� Zavereèná skú�ka examination. It isalways accompanied by the certificate �Vysvedèenie o závereènej skú�ke. Itmentions the qualification (trade oroccupation). It gives access to employment.


WirtschaftsschulabschlussCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Wirtschaftsschulabschluß, Wirtschaftsschulabschluss*Level of education: Lower secondaryExplanatory note:Term used in certain Länder for � Realschul-abschluss.

Ww


YlioppilasCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: ylioppilaa-, ylioppilaatLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Title conferred on pupils who obtain the �Ylioppilastutkintotodistus after passing the �Ylioppilastutkinto examination. Swedishterm: Student.

YlioppilastutkintoCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: tutkinno-, tutkinto-,tutkinnotLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:The national matriculation examination forentry to all types of higher education. Usuallytaken at the end of the upper secondarygeneral school although individual subjectscan be sat in the course of the year.Compulsory subjects are mother tongue,second official language (Finnish/Swedish),foreign language and, as the candidatechooses, either mathematics or generalstudies. This examination leads to the �Ylioppilastutkintotodistus certificate andgrants the title � Ylioppilas. Swedish term:Studentexamen.

YlioppilastutkintotodistusCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: todistukse-, todistuksetLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Qualification awarded to pupils who pass the� Ylioppilastutkinto. Swedish term:Studentexamensbetyg.

Yrkesexamen på institutnivå Country: FinlandGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: Post-secondaryExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Ammatillinen opistoasteen tutkinto.

YrkeshögskoleexamenCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Ammattikorkeakoulu-tutkinto.

Yrkesinriktad påbyggnadsexamenCountry: FinlandGrammatical variants: -examinaLevel of education: HigherExplanatory note:Swedish term for � Erikoistumistutkinto.

Y y


Záróvizsga

Country: HungaryGrammatical variants:Záróvizsgát, Záróvizsgák, Záróvizsgákat

Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Examination on completion of non-universityand university higher education, which iscompulsory for obtaining the � Fõiskolai

oklevél or � Egyetemi oklevél diploma. Itconsists of the preparation and defence of adissertation, written and oral examinationsand, in certain cases, a practical test (e.g. forteachers). The examinations are set by eachinstitution in accordance with its curriculum.Students are assessed by a state board ofexaminers, one member of which is fromoutside the institution.

Závereèná skú�ka

Country: SlovakiaGrammatical variants: Závereèné skú�ky,

Závereèná skú�ka*

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Final examination organised in schools ofupper secondary specialised and vocationaleducation (of less than 4 years). Successfulpupils receive the leaving certificate �Vysvedèenie o závereènej skú�ke which isaccompanied by a vocational proficiencycertificate � Výuèný list. The content andlevel of requirements for this examination aredefined by each institution. It includespractical and theoretical examinations.

Závìreèná zkou�ka

Country: Czech RepublicGrammatical variants: Závìreèné zkou�ky,

Závìreèn* zkou�k*

Level of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Compulsory final examination, held by uppersecondary technical and vocational schools(courses lasting less than 4 years). The form,as well as content, of this examination isdefined by each institution. In the study fieldsat upper secondary technical schools, itincludes a practical test and a theoretical test(oral) which relate to the special subjects. Itleads to the � Vysvìdèení o závìreèné

zkou�ce certificate. In upper secondaryvocational schools, this examination consistsof a written, practical and oral test, relating tothe vocational subjects and leads to thecertificate � Výuèní list. The examination isevaluated by a committee whose chairman isappointed by the local education authorities,and the members by the head of theeducational institution.

ZertifikatCountry: AustriaGrammatical variants: Zertifikate, Zertifikat*Level of education: HigherExplanatory note:Final certificate awarded to students who passthe whole curriculum including writtenexaminations. The specialisation is indicated.Testifies to the completion of professionaltraining as a clinical psychologist.

Z z


Zeugnis der Allgemeinen HochschulreifeCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Zeugnisse der Allgemeinen HochschulreifeLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of success in the � Abiturprüfungat the end of upper secondary generaleducation (usually following school year 13).In addition to the pupils’ results in the �Abitur examination, the certificate alsorecords the results of their continuousassessment during the final two school yearsin the Gymnasiale Oberstufe. It gives accessto all institutions of higher education and allsubject areas.

Zeugnis der Fachgebundenen HochschulreifeCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Zeugnisse der Fachgebundenen HochschulreifeLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate of the final examination taken atthe end of upper secondary education invarious educational programmes withcareer-oriented specialisation. It gives accessto education in particular subject areas atuniversities and equivalent higher educationinstitutions. See � Fachgebundene Hochschulreife.

Zeugnis der FachhochschulreifeCountry: GermanyGrammatical variants: Zeugnisse der FachhochschulreifeLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Certificate attesting that the pupil has passedthe examination generally taken in aFachoberschule following school year 12 orunder certain conditions in another full-timevocational school in general educationsubjects and certain vocational subjects. Itgives access to a Fachhochschule or, in someLänder, to a Berufsakademie.

Zrelosten izpit ((ЗЗppeeллооссттеенн ииззппиитт))Country: BulgariaGrammatical variants: Zrelostni izpitiLevel of education: Upper secondaryExplanatory note:Final examination held in upper secondarygeneral and technical schools (including theorientation sections). It is compulsory forobtaining the � Diploma za srednoobrazovanie/Diploma za sredno-spetzialnoobrazovanie certificate. It includes writtenexaminations set by the Ministry ofEducation and Science and oralexaminations, defined by each institution,relating to Bulgarian language and literature,one general subject or one of the mainspecialised subjects.

Part II — Summary tables

184

GG GGLL LLOO OOSS SSSS SSAA AARR RRYY YYOO OONN NNEE EEDD DDUU UUCC CCAA AATT TTII IIOO OONN NN-- --VV VVOO OOLL LLUU UUMM MMEE EE11 11

Belgium (French Community)

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimary Examen (inter)diocésain

Examen cantonalCertificat d’Études de Base (CEB)

Lower secondary Certificat d’Enseignement Secondaire du deuxième degré (CESDD)Certificat d’Enseignement Secondaire Inférieur (CESI)Certificat d’Études de Base (CEB)

Upper secondary Examen d’Aptitude à accéder à l’Enseignement Supérieur Certificat d’Enseignement Secondaire Supérieur (CESS)Certificat de Qualification (CQ)Diplôme d’Aptitude à accéder à l’Enseignement Supérieur (DAES)

Post-secondaryHigher Examen spécial d’admission aux études universitaires de

1er cycle en sciences appliquéesAgrégation de l’enseignement secondaire inférieur (AESI)Agrégation de l’enseignement secondaire supérieur (AESS)Agrégation de l’enseignement supérieurArchitecteCandidature enCertificat d’aptitude pédagogique (CAP)Diplôme d’études approfondies (DEA)Diplôme d’études complémentaires (DEC)Diplôme d’études spécialisées (DES)Diplôme d’études supérieures spécialiséesDiplôme de spécialisationDoctorat enGraduat enIngénieurLicence enMaîtrise en

Agrégé(e) de l’enseignementsecondaire inférieur (AESI)(Régent(e))Agrégé(e) de l’enseignementsecondaire supérieur (AESS)Agrégé(e) de l’enseignementsupérieurArchitecteCandidat(e) enDocteur enGradué(e) enIngénieurLicencié(e) enMaître en

Note: The names of examinations, qualifications and titles appear in alphabetical order. The terms listed under each level of education do not necessarily correspond across the columns.

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Structures of schools and tertiary education institutions, 1998/99

185

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Belgium (German-speaking Community)

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimary Kantonalprüfung Abschlusszeugnis der GrundschuleLower secondary Abschlusszeugnis der Unterstufe des SekundarunterrichtsUpper secondary Abschlusszeugnis der Oberstufe des Sekundarunterrichts

Befähigungsnachweis des sechsten JahresPost-secondaryHigher Diplom





186


Belgium (Flemish Community)

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimary Getuigschrift Basisonderwijs

Lower secondary Getuigschrift

Upper secondary Attest van regelmatige lesbijwoningDiploma secundair onderwijsGetuigschriftStudiegetuigschrift

Post-secondaryHigher Architect

ArtsBaccalaureusDoctoraatsgetuigschriftGeaggregeerde voor het secundair onderwijsGediplomeerde in de aanvullende studies van (GAS)Gediplomeerde in de gespecialiseerde studies van (GGS)Gediplomeerde in de voortgezette studie vanGegradueerdeIngenieurKandidaat in deLicenciaat in deMeester

ArchitectArtsBaccalaureusDoctorIngenieurMeester





187


Denmark

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimaryLower secondary Folkeskolens afgangsprøve

Folkeskolens udvidede afgangsprøveAfgangsbevis fra Folkeskolen

Upper secondary Afsluttende fagprøveHøjere Forberedelseseksamen (HF)Højere Handelseksamen (HHX)Højere Teknisk Eksamen (HTX)StudentereksamenSvendeprøve

Bevis for Højere ForberedelseseksamenBevis for Højere HandelseksamenBevis for Højere Teknisk EksamenSkolebevisStudentereksamensbevisUddannelsesbevis (Svendebrev)

Post-secondaryHigher Bachelorgrad

Bevis for (Eksamensbevis som)BilledkunstnergradDiplomeksamen (Musik)DoktorgradKandidatgradKonservatorgradMagistergradPh.d.-grad

BachelorBilledkunstnerCandidatus (Kandidat)DiplomingeniørDoktor (Dr.)FolkeskolelærerKandidatKonservatorMagister Artium (Mag.art.)Philosophiae Doctor (Ph.d.)



188


Germany

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimaryLower secondary Abgangszeugnis

Erweiterte BerufsbildungsreifeErweiterter HauptschulabschlussErweiterter Realschulabschluss (Erweiterter Sekundarabschluss I)FachoberschulreifeHauptschulabschluss (Berufsbildungsreife)Mittlerer AbschlussMittlerer BildungsabschlussMittlerer SchulabschlussQualifizierender HauptschulabschlussQualifizierter HauptschulabschlussQualifizierter SekundarabschlussRealschulabschlussWirtschaftsschulabschluss

Upper secondary AbiturprüfungAusbildungsabschlussprüfungBerufliche Abschlussprüfung

AbgangszeugnisAbiturAbschlusszeugnis der BerufsschuleAllgemeine HochschulreifeBerufsqualifizierender AbschlussFacharbeiterbriefFachgebundene HochschulreifeFachhochschulreifeFachoberschulreifeGesellenbriefKaufmannsgehilfenbriefZeugnis der Allgemeinen HochschulreifeZeugnis der Fachgebundenen HochschulreifeZeugnis der Fachhochschulreife

Post-secondary Staatliche Abschlussprüfung

189


Examinations Qualifications TitlesHigher Diplomprüfung

HochschulprüfungKirchliche AbschlussprüfungKonzertexamenKünstlerische AbschlussprüfungKünstlerische ReifeprüfungMagisterprüfungMeisterklassenexamenStaatsexamenStaatsprüfungTheologische Abschlussprüfung

BachelorDiplomDiplomgradDoktorgradKonzertreife/SolistenreifeMagisterMagistergradMasterPromotion

Doktor (Dr.)MagisterMeisterschüler


Germany (continued)


The Fachhochschulen für Verwaltung, the Berufsakademien/Fachakademien, the Fachschulen and the Schulen des Gesundheitswesens belong to the broader first stage of tertiary education categorized aslevel 5B in the new ISCED 97 classification. The examinations and qualifications at this level are included at the level of higher education given in the summary table.

190


Greece

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimary �� !

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191


Spain

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimaryLower secondary Prueba de Madurez Certificado acreditativo del grado elemental de

Certificado de EscolaridadGraduado en Educación SecundariaGraduado EscolarTécnico Auxiliar en

Graduado en EducaciónSecundariaGraduado EscolarTécnico Auxiliar en

Upper secondary Pruebas de Acceso a la Universidad (PAU) (Selectividad) BachillerCertificación académica del ciclo elemental de las enseñanzas deidiomasCertificado de aptitud del ciclo superior de las enseñanzas deidiomasTécnico enTécnico Especialista enTítulo profesional del grado medio de

BachillerTécnico enTécnico Especialista en

Post-secondaryHigher Arquitecto

Arquitecto TécnicoDiplomatura enDoctorado enIngenierio TécnicoIngenieroLicenciatura enMaestroTécnico Superior enTítulo Superior en

ArquitectoArquitecto TécnicoDiplomado enDoctor enIngenierio TécnicoIngenieroLicenciado enMaestroTécnico Superior enTitulado Superior en



192


France

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimaryLower secondary Brevet Brevet

Certificat de formation générale (CFG)Upper secondary Baccalauréat Baccalauréat

Brevet d’études professionnelles (BEP)Brevet de technicien (BT, BTA)Certificat d’aptitude professionnelle (CAP)Certificat de fin d’études secondaires (CFES)Diplôme d’accès aux études universitaires (DAEU)

Agent technique breveté(Technicien breveté)Bachelier(ère)

Post-secondaryHigher Agrégation

Architecte diplômé par le GouvernementBrevet de technicien supérieur (BTS)Certificat d’aptitude au professorat de l’enseignement secondaire(CAPES)Certificat d’aptitude au professorat des écoles (CAPE)Certificat d’études spécialisées (CES)Certificat de synthèse clinique et thérapeutique (CSCT)Diplôme d’État de docteurDiplôme d’études approfondies (DEA)Diplôme d’études spécialisées (DES)Diplôme d’études supérieures spécialisées (DESS)Diplôme d’études universitaires générales (DEUG)Diplôme d’études universitaires scientifiques et techniques (DEUST)Diplôme de recherche technologique (DRT)Diplôme des grandes écolesDiplôme national de technologie spécialisée (DNTS)Diplôme universitaire de technologie (DUT)Doctorat enHabilitation à diriger des recherchesIngénieurLicenceMagistèreMaîtrise

Architecte diplômé par leGouvernementDocteurIngénieurIngénieur-maîtreLicencié(e) enProfesseur agrégéProfesseur certifiéProfesseur des écolesTechnicien supérieur


193


France (continued)


194


Ireland

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimaryLower secondary Junior Certificate examination Junior CertificateUpper secondary Leaving Certificate examination Junior Trade Certificate

Leaving CertificateNational Craft CertificateSenior Trade Certificate

Post-secondary National Foundation CertificateNational Vocational Certificate, Level 1, 2 and 3

Higher Bachelor’s degree (BA, BBS, B.Sc.)Certificate inDiploma inDoctorateGraduate DiplomaHigher Diploma in Education (H.Dip.Ed.)Master’s degreeNational Certificate (NC)National Diploma (ND)NCEA DiplomaOne-year Certificate

Bachelor ofDoctorDoctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)Master of


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195


Italy

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimary Esame di idoneità

Esame di licenza elementareEsame integrativo

Diploma di licenza elementare

Lower secondary Esame di idoneitàEsame di licenza mediaEsame integrativo

Diploma di licenza media

Upper secondary Esame di abilitazione all’insegnamento nelle scuolematerneEsame di idoneitàEsame di licenza di maestro d’arteEsame di maturitàEsame di qualificaEsame di Stato conclusivo dei corsi di studio di istruzionesecondaria superioreEsame integrativo

Diploma di abilitazione all’insegnamento nelle scuole materneDiploma di maestro d’arteDiploma di maturitàDiploma di qualificaDiploma di superamento dell’esame di Stato conclusivo dei corsi distudio di istruzione secondaria superiore

Maestro d’arteOperatorePeritoTecnico

Post-secondary Esame integrativoHigher Esame di diploma universitario

Esame di laureaEsame di profittoEsame di specializzazioneEsame integrativo

Diploma di Accademia di Belle ArtiDiploma di educazione fisicaDiploma di Laurea (Laurea) (DL)Diploma di Specializzazione (DS)Diploma Superiore per le Industrie ArtisticheDiploma Universitario (DU)Dottorato di Ricerca (DR)

Diplomato universitarioDottore di RicercaDottore in (Dott./Dott.ssa)(Laureato)Specializzato in



197


Luxembourg

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimary Examen d’admission à l’enseignement secondaire généralLower secondary Certificat d’aptitude technique et professionnelle (CATP)

Certificat d’Initiation Technique et Professionnelle (CITP)Certificat de Capacité Manuelle (CCM)Certificat de fin de scolarité

Upper secondary Examen de fin d’apprentissageExamen de fin d’études du technicienExamen de fin d’études secondairesExamen de fin d’études secondaires techniques

Certificat d’aptitude technique et professionnelle (CATP)Certificat d’Initiation Technique et Professionnelle (CITP)Certificat de Capacité Manuelle (CCM)Diplôme d’État d’infirmier(ère)Diplôme de fin d’études secondairesDiplôme de fin d’études secondaires techniquesDiplôme de technicien

Post-secondary Brevet de maîtrise (Maîtrise)Brevet de technicien supérieur (BTS)Diplôme d’Éducateur

Higher CertificatCertificat d’études pédagogiquesDiplôme d’éducateur graduéDiplôme d’études supérieures en gestionDiplôme d’études supérieures spécialisées (DESS)Diplôme d’Ingénieur industriel

Éducateur graduéIngénieur industriel


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198


The Netherlands

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimary Eindtoets Basisonderwijs (CITO-toets)

Lower secondary Centraal examenDeeleindexamenDeelstaatsexamenEindexamenEindexamen middelbaar algemeen voortgezet onderwijs(Eindexamen mavo)Eindexamen middelbaar algemeen voortgezetonderwijs/voorbereidend beroepsonderwijs (Eindexamenmavo/vbo)Eindexamen voorbereidend beroepsonderwijs (Eindexamen vbo)Extraneï-examensSchoolexamen (Schoolonderzoek)StaatsexamenStaatsexamen hoger algemeen voortgezet onderwijs(Staatsexamen havo)Staatsexamen middelbaar algemeen voortgezet onderwijs(Staatsexamen mavo)Toetsen basisvorming

CertificaatCertificaat middelbaar algemeen voortgezet onderwijs (Certificaat mavo)Certificaat middelbaar algemeen voortgezet onderwijs/voorbereidendberoepsonderwijs (Certificaat mavo/vbo)Certificaat staatsexamenCertificaat staatsexamen middelbaar algemeen voortgezet onderwijs(Certificaat staatsexamen mavo)Certificaat voorbereidend beroepsonderwijs (Certificaat vbo)Diploma middelbaar algemeen voortgezet onderwijs (Diploma mavo)Diploma middelbaar algemeen voortgezet onderwijs/voorbereidendberoepsonderwijs (Diploma mavo/vbo)Diploma staatsexamenDiploma staatsexamen middelbaar algemeen voortgezet onderwijs (Diplomastaatsexamen mavo)Diploma voorbereidend beroepsonderwijs (Diploma vbo)Getuigschrift basisvormingSchoolverlatersverklaring

Upper secondary Centraal examenDeeleindexamenDeelstaatsexamenEindexamenEindexamen hoger algemeen voortgezet onderwijs (Eindexamenhavo)Eindexamen voorbereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijs(Eindexamen vwo)Examen beroepsonderwijsExamen middelbaar beroepsonderwijs (Examen mbo)Extraneï-examensSchoolexamen (Schoolonderzoek)StaatsexamenStaatsexamen hoger algemeen voortgezet onderwijs(Staatsexamen havo)Staatsexamen voorbereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijs(Staatsexamen vwo)

CertificaatCertificaat hoger algemeen voortgezet onderwijs (Certificaat havo)Certificaat middelbaar beroepsonderwijs (Certificaat mbo)Certificaat opleiding beroepsonderwijsCertificaat staatsexamenCertificaat staatsexamen hoger algemeen voortgezet onderwijs (Certificaatstaatsexamen havo)Certificaat staatsexamen voorbereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijs(Certificaat staatsexamen vwo)Certificaat voorbereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijs (Certificaat vwo)Diploma hoger algemeen voorgezet oderwijs (Diploma havo)Diploma middelbaar beroepsonderwijs (Diploma mbo)Diploma opleiding beroepsonderwijsDiploma staatsexamenDiploma staatsexamen hoger algemeen voortgezet onderwijs (Diplomastaatsexamen havo)Diploma staatsexamen voorbereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijs (Diplomastaatsexamen vwo)Diploma voorbereidend wetenschappelijk onderwijs (Diploma vwo)Schoolverlatersverklaring

Post-secondary

199


Examinations Qualifications TitlesHigher Afsluitend examen

KandidaatsexamenPropedeutisch examen

DoctoraatGetuigschrift van het afsluitend examenGetuigschrift van het propedeutisch examenPromotie

Baccalaureus (Bc.)Bachelor (B.)Doctor (Dr)Doctorandus (Drs)Ingenieur (Ir., Ing.)Kandidaat (Kand.)Master (M.)Meester (Mr)Meester in de rechten(Mr.)



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The Netherlands (continued)


200


Austria

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimaryLower secondary Abschlusszeugnis der Hauptschule

Upper secondary Abschlussprüfung der berufsbildenden mittleren SchuleBerufsreifeprüfungDiplomprüfungLehrabschlussprüfungReife- und DiplomprüfungReifeprüfungStudienberechtigungsprüfung

Abschlussprüfungszeugnis der berufsbildenden mittleren SchuleAbschlusszeugnis der berufsbildenden mittleren SchuleAbschlusszeugnis der BerufsschuleAbschlusszeugnis der Polytechnischen SchuleBerufsreifeprüfungszeugnisDiplomDiplomprüfungszeugnisLehrabschlussprüfungszeugnisReife- und DiplomprüfungszeugnisReifeprüfungszeugnisStudienberechtigungszeugnis

Ingenieur

Post-secondary Diplomprüfung Diplomprüfungszeugnis

Higher AbschlusskolloquiumAbschlussprüfungDiplomprüfungLehramts- und Befähigungsprüfung für den land- undforstwirtschaftlichen Lehr-, Beratungs- undFörderungsdienstLehramtsprüfungRigorosum

AbschlussprüfungszeugnisAbschlusszertifikatDiplomDiplomprüfungszeugnisLehramts- und BefähigungsprüfungszeugnisLehramtsprüfungszeugnisRigorosenzeugnisZertifikat

Akademischer…Diplom-Ingenieur (Dipl.-Ing.,DI)Doktor (Dr.)Magister (Mag.)






201


Portugal

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimaryLower secondary Prova Global Diploma de Ensino Básico

Diploma de Qualificação Profissional de Nível IIUpper secondary Exame de equivalência à frequência

Exame final de âmbito nacionalProva de Aptidão Profissional (PAP)Prova Global

Diploma de Estudos SecundáriosDiploma de Qualificação Profissional de Nível III

Post-secondaryHigher Prova de doutoramento

Provas ComplementaresBacharelatoCarta DoutoralCarta MagistralDiploma de Conclusão da Parte Curricular do MestradoLicenciatura

BacharelDoutorLicenciadoMestre






203


Finland

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimaryLower secondary Avgångsbetyg från grundskolan

Peruskoulun päättötodistusUpper secondary Fristående yrkesprov

NäyttötutkintoStudentexamenYlioppilastutkinto

Ammatillinen perustutkintoBetyg över avlagd yrkesexamen på andra stadietBetyg över kombinationsstudierBetyg över läroavtalsutbildningGrundexamenGymnasiets avgångsbetygLukion päättötodistusSpecialiseringsexamenStudentexamensbetygTodistus oppisopimuskoulutuksestaTodistus toisen asteen ammatillisista opinnoistaTodistus yhdistelmäopinnoistaYlioppilastutkintotodistus

StudentYlioppilas

Post-secondary Ammatillinen opistoasteen tutkintoYrkesexamen på institutnivå

Higher AmmattikorkeakoulututkintoDoktors examenErikoistumistutkintoKandidaatin tutkintoKandidat examenLicentiat examenLisensiaatintutkintoMagister examenMaisterin tutkintoTohtorintutkintoYrkeshögskoleexamenYrkesinriktad påbyggnadsexamen

DoktorKandidaattiKandidatLicentiatLisensiaattiMagisterMaisteriTohtori



204


National specifications

There are two kinds of degree in undergraduate education: general and professional degrees.

General degrees:– högskoleexamen requiring 80 points;– kandidatexamen requiring 120 points, of which 60 points in the major subject including a thesis of 10 points;– magisterexamen requiring 160 points, of which 80 points in the major subject including one thesis of 20 points or two theses of 10 points.

Professional degrees are awarded in the fields of engineering, medicine and dentistry, agriculture, teacher training, fine arts etc. Programmes leading to professional degrees vary inlength from 40 to 220 points, depending on their character. There are around 50 professional degrees, around 30 of these following courses of more than 3 years’ duration.It is important to note that only a small number of the professional degrees are included in the glossary as examples of this type of degree.In postgraduate education there are two degrees: doktorsexamen and licentiatexamen.For admission to post-graduate studies there are general (basic) as well as special eligibility requirements. General eligibility corresponds to at least 120 points or 3 years of full-time undergraduate studies. (The faculty board may however give exception to this.)Special eligibility refers to undergraduate studies within a special field or certain vocational experience and is established by the faculty board. (Normally special eligibilitycorresponds to 60 or 80 points or 1½ or 2 years of full-time undergraduate studies in the chosen field.)

Sweden

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimaryLower secondary Slutbetyg från grundskolanUpper secondary Slutbetyg från gymnasieskolanPost-secondaryHigher Agronomexamen

ArkitektexamenBarnmorskeexamenCivilingenjörsexamenDoktorsexamenGrundskollärarexamenGymnasielärarexamenHögskoleexamenHögskoleingenjörsexamenJuris kandidatexamenKandidatexamenKonstnärlig högskoleexamenLäkarexamenLantmästarexamenLicentiatexamenMagisterexamenPsykologexamenPsykoterapeutexamenReceptarieexamenSjuksköterskeexamenSocial omsorgsexamenSocionomexamenVeterinärsexamen

DoktorKandidatLicentiatMagister


205


Sweden (continued)


206


United Kingdom (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimary National Curriculum Assessment – (E/W)

Northern Ireland Assessment – (NI)Transfer Procedure Tests – (NI)

Lower secondary National Curriculum Assessment – (E/W)Northern Ireland Assessment – (NI)

Upper secondary Business and Technology Education Council First Qualification(BTEC First Qualification)Certificate of AchievementCity & Guilds Diploma of Vocational Education Foundation levelGeneral Certificate of Education Advanced Level (GCE A level), (Alevel)General Certificate of Education Advanced Subsidiary Level (GCEAS Level)General Certificate of Education Advanced SupplementaryExamination (GCE AS Examination)General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE)General National Vocational Qualification (GNVQ)National Vocational Qualification (NVQ)Part One General National Vocational Qualification (Part OneGNVQ)Royal Society of Arts Examinations Board Initial Qualification(RSA Initial Award)

Post-secondaryHigher Bachelor’s degree

Certificate of Higher EducationDiploma of Higher Education (Dip.H.E.)DoctorateHigher National Certificate (HNC)Higher National Diploma (HND)Master’s degreePostgraduate Certificate/Diploma

Doctor of


207



41 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 2710

UK(E/W)




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HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

CLASSES HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

FURTHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

RECEPTION CLASSES SECONDARY SCHOOLSPRIMARY SCHOOLS

PRIMARY SCHOOLS

41 2 3 5 6 7 8 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 2710

UK(NI)





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HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONSNURSERY SCHOOLS /

NURSERY SCHOOLS /

CLASSES

HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

FURTHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

SECONDARY SCHOOLS

United Kingdom (England, Wales and Northern Ireland) (continued)


The qualifications system in England, Wales and Northern Ireland has traditionally been decentralised with educational establishments deciding which qualifications to offer theirpupils. All courses of study, leading to an external qualification, provided for pupils of compulsory school age in publicly-funded schools must, however, be approved by the relevantregulatory body.

In secondary, further and vocational education, general and vocational qualifications are provided by awarding bodies, which are independent, not-for-profit companies, comprisingmembers drawn from education and industry. The awarding bodies are funded largely by examination fees, are subject to statutory regulation and are generally responsible forsyllabus development, setting and marking examinations, approving centres (schools etc.) and quality assurance. Government has recently encouraged rationalisation and somemergers/alliances of bodies have resulted.

As autonomous institutions, higher education institutions are free to decide on the names of their qualifications and, as a result, there is a wide variety in the titles of degrees. Forexample, some universities use the term ‘master’s’ for first degrees; others offer the title Bachelor of Arts for all first degrees including those in a science discipline. A recent reviewof higher education has recommended the rationalisation and standardisation of the titles used.

In addition to granting awards in respect of the programmes they offer on their own premises, some higher education institutions may franchise programmes of study to otherinstitutions (often in the further education sector or overseas), validate individual programmes designed and offered in other higher education establishments or by industrial orcommercial companies, license or accredit other institutions to offer programmes in their name, or offer programmes through distance learning.


208


United Kingdom (Scotland)

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimary National testingLower secondary National testing

Scottish Certificate of Education – Standard Grade (SCE –Standard Grade)

AccessNational Certificate ModuleScottish Certificate of Education – Standard Grade (SCE – StandardGrade)

Upper secondary Intermediate 1Intermediate 2Scottish Certificate of Education – Higher Grade (SCE –Higher Grade)

AccessAdvanced HigherCertificate of Sixth Year Studies (CSYS)General Scottish Vocational Qualification (GSVQ)Higher (Higher Still)Intermediate 1Intermediate 2National Certificate ModuleScottish Certificate of Education – Higher Grade (SCE – HigherGrade)Scottish Group Award (SGA)

Post-secondary Intermediate 1Intermediate 2

AccessAdvanced HigherGeneral Scottish Vocational Qualification (GSVQ)Higher (Higher Still)Intermediate 1Intermediate 2National Certificate ModuleScottish Group Award (SGA)Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ)

Higher Bachelor of Arts (BA)Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)Bachelor’s degreeCertificate (of Higher Education)Diploma of Higher Education (Dip.H.E.)DoctorateHigher National Certificate (HNC)Higher National Diploma (HND)Master of Arts (MA)Master’s degreePostgraduate Certificate in Education

Doctor of


209



Higher Still is the title of the programme for reforming post-16 qualifications in Scotland awarded by the Scottish Qualifications Authority, though the qualifications themselves willbe referred to collectively as ‘National Qualifications’. These qualifications will be available in secondary schools, further education colleges (tertiary colleges) and will also be usedfor training for existing employees, including adults. The new qualifications will cover both academic and vocational subjects.

There will be five levels of qualification – Access (with sub-levels 1 to 3), Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2, Higher and Advanced Higher. The first courses leading to thesequalifications will start in the academic session 1999/2000 and implementation will be completed in 2003/2004. The new qualifications will replace existing Highers, Certificate ofSixth Year Studies, National Certificate and General Scottish Vocational Qualifications, but not Standard Grade or Scottish Vocational Qualifications.

Qualifications being introduced under Higher Still are divided into units which are internally assessed on the basis of coursework, but (above Access level) there is also an externalassessment which determines the grade on a scale A to C. Units can be taken separately, including those for short training courses for trainees and existing employees. The basiccontent of Advanced Highers in individual subjects, including options, is specified centrally. The Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) awards the qualification, carries outexternal assessments and moderates internal assessments.

The new qualifications are also designed to develop five Core Skills – Communication (written and oral), Numeracy, Information Technology, Problem Solving and Working withOthers, awarded at levels as for the main qualifications. Core Skills will be awarded mainly by embedding within the main qualifications (though levels for Core Skills may differfrom the level of the overall qualification), but individual Core Skills units will also be available. Core Skills will be recorded separately on qualifications certificates.

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United Kingdom (Scotland) (continued)


210


Iceland

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimary

Lower secondary Vitnisburður um nám í grunnskólaUpper secondary Samræmd lokapróf

StúdentsprófSveinspróf

StúdentsprófsskírteiniSveinsbréf

StúdentSveinn

Post-secondary MeistarabréfMeistaranám í iðn

Meistari

Higher BA-prófBEd-prófBS-prófDoktorsprófKandidatsprófMeistarapróf

BA-grádaBEd-grádaBS-grádaDoktorsgrádaKandidatsgrádaMeistaragráda

BABEdBSDoktor (Dr.phil.)Kandidat (Cand.)Magister (MA, MEd, MPaed,MS)



211


Liechtenstein

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimaryLower secondary Abschlussprüfung der Oberschule

Abschlussprüfung der RealschuleAbschlusszeugnis der OberschuleAbschlusszeugnis der Realschule

Upper secondary FachhochschulreifeprüfungLehrabschlussprüfungMaturaprüfung (Matura)

Fachhochschulreifezeugnis (Berufsmatura)LehrbriefMaturazeugnis

Post-secondaryHigher Diplomprüfung

Magisterprüfung (Magisterexamen)Vordiplom

BaccalaureatDiplom (Dipl.Arch. FH, Dipl.Ing. FH)Vordiplom

Doktor der Philosophie (Dr.phil.)Magister Artium (MA)


Pre-primary school-based Lower secondary vocational Compulsory full-time education

Primary Upper secondary vocational Compulsory part-time education

Single structure Post-secondary non-tertiary Additional year

Lower secondary general Higher non-university level/sub-degree/ / / / Part-time or combined school and

Upper secondary general Higher university level/degree

Source: Eurydice.

workplace courses


212


Norway

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimaryLower secondary Avgangsprøve VitnemålUpper secondary Eksamen fra videregående opplæring

FagprøveSvenneprøve

ÅrskursbevisDelkompetansebevisFagbrevFagkarakterbevisModulbevisSvennebrevVitnemål

Post-secondary

Higher Candidatus (cand.)Candidatus magisterii (cand. mag.)DesignkandidatDiplomeksamenDoctor (dr.)Examinatus oeconomiae (exam. oecon)FiskerikandidatHøgskolekandidatHovedfagkandidatHøyere avdelings eksamenHøyere revisoreksamenIdrettskandidatKandidatKandidat i musikkKommunalkandidatKunstfagkandidatKunstfaglig utdanningLicentiatus (lic.)Magister artium (mag. art)Maritim kandidatMaster of (M. Phil, M. Sc, MA, MBA, MIB)Praktisk-pedagogisk utdanningPraktisk-teologisk utdanningSivilarkitektSivilingeniør (siv. ing)Siviløkonom (siv. øk)Vitnemål

Candidatus (cand.)Candidatus magisterii (cand.mag.)DesignkandidatDoctor (dr.)Examinatus oeconomiae (exam.oecon)FiskerikandidatHøgskolekandidatHovedfagkandidatIdrettskandidatKandidatKandidat i musikkKommunalkandidatKunstfagkandidatLicentiatus (lic.)Magister artium (mag. art)Maritim kandidatMaster of (M. Phil, M. Sc., MA,MBA, MIB)SivilarkitektSivilingeniør (siv. ing)Siviløkonom (siv. øk)


213


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Norway (continued)


214


Bulgaria

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimary ��

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215


Czech Republic

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimaryLower secondaryUpper secondary Maturitní zkouška

��

��

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Post-secondary Absolutorium Diplom��

Diplomovaný specialista v oboru(DiS.)

Higher Státní doktorská zkouškaStátní rigorózní zkouška��

Vysokoškolský diplom��

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��! " �#$ �%#&

Doktor (JUDr., MUDr., MVDr.,Ph.D., PharmDr., PhDr., RNDr.,Th.D., ThDr.)'�(�� "'��#$ '��# ��)#&

Licenciát teologie (ThLic.)Magistr (MgA., Mgr.)


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216


Hungary

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimaryLower secondary Felvételi vizsga Általános iskolai bizonyítványUpper secondary Érettségi vizsga

��

Szakmai vizsgaTechnikusképesítõ vizsga

Gimnáziumi bizonyítványGimnáziumi érettségi bizonyítványSzakképzõ iskolai képesít� ��

Szakközépiskolai bizonyítvány��

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Szakmunkásképzõ iskolai bizonyítványSzakmunkásképzõ iskolai-képesít� bizonyítványTechnikusi oklevél

SzakmunkásTechnikus

Post-secondaryHigher Doktori szigorlat

Szakmai vizsgaZáróvizsga

Doktori fokozat (Doktorátus)Egyetemi oklevél��

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217


Poland

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimaryLower secondary 1�� 2��3+�� 4� 5��6 72��2� ��8�� 4� +��2�2�6

Upper secondary 1�� 6��4�5�� "9�� &

Egzamin z nauki zawoduEgzamin z przygotowania zawodowego

72��2� ��6��4�5�� "72��2� �� &

72��2� ��8�� 4�:��

72��2� ��8�� )��

72��2� ��8�� 2��2��

72��2� ��8�� 4� ��6

72��2� ��8�� )�� 2��2��

Robotnik wykwalifikowanyTechnik

Post-secondary Egzamin z nauki zawoduEgzamin z przygotowania zawodowego

;�+�� 8�� 4� +��6 Robotnik wykwalifikowanyTechnik

Higher Egzamin doktorskiEgzamin dyplomowyEgzamin magisterskiKolokwium habilitacyjne

Dyplom doktoraDyplom doktora habilitowanego;�+�� 8�� 2 2�<��)

Doktor (Dr)Doktor habilitowany (Dr hab.)'�<�� "'�<#&

LekarzLicencjat9�� "9��$ 9�� <#&



218


Romania

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimaryLower secondary Examen de capacitate Certificat de capacitate

.�� =

Upper secondary Examen de absolvireExamen de bacalaureat>��= +��=

Atestat profesionalCertificat de absolvire;�+��= ��

;�+��= ��

;�+��= ��

.�� =

Post-secondary Examen de absolvire Certificat de absolvireHigher Colocviu

;��?��

Examen de absolvire1@�� ?=

A�= ��

Certificat de absolvireB��/�� = � ��=

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219


Slovakia

Examinations Qualifications TitlesPrimaryLower secondaryUpper secondary Maturitná skúška

��

��

��

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Post-secondary Absolventská skúška (Absolutórium) Absolventský diplomHigher Rigorózna skúška

Štátna skúškaDiplom��

Bakalár (Bc.)Doktor (JUDr., MUDr., MVDr.,PaedDr., PharmDr., PhDr.,RNDr., ThDr.)�� !�"

Magister (Mgr., Mgr.art.)Philosophiae doctor (PhD.,ArtD.)














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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

EURYDICE EUROPEAN UNIT

Coordination of the study: Arlette Delhaxhe

Authors: Anne O'Brien, Renata Kosinska, Bernadette Forsthuber

Technical assistance: Gisèle De Lel, Brigitte Gendebien, Helga Stammherr, Colette Vanandruel

EURYDICE NATIONAL UNITS – NATIONAL CONTRIBUTION

EUROPEAN UNIONBelgique/België• French Community

• German-speaking Community• Flemish Community

Joint responsibility; Mme C. Kaufmann (Naric), M. R. Martin,M. J. LejeuneJoint responsibilityJoint responsibility; M. E. Malfroy (Naric)

Danmark Joint responsibilityBundesrepublik Deutschland• Bund• Länder

Joint responsibilityDr. Gerdi Jonen, Dr. Beatrix Sauter

Ellada Antigoni Faragoulitaki, Angela MethodiouEspaña Joint responsibilityFrance Joint responsibilityIreland Joint responsibilityItalia Joint responsibilityLuxembourg Raymond HarschNederland Anneke Van DorpÖsterreich Joint responsibilityPortugal Joint responsibilitySuomi/Finland Dr Kaarle SulamaaSverige Ministry of Education and Science: Division for School;

Division for Higher Education, Nils Harding. MarianneHildebrand (Naric)

United Kingdom• England, Wales and Northern Ireland• Scotland

Joint responsibilityDouglas Ansdell

EFTA/EEA COUNTRIESIsland Joint responsibilityLiechtenstein Joint responsibilityNorge Joint responsibility

PRE-ACCESSION COUNTRIES�� Joint responsibility�� Joint responsibilityMagyarország Zoltán Loboda, Zoltán Zarándy; Eva Palmer (Naric)Polska ��

România Alexandru ModrescuSlovenská Republika Joint responsibility


EURYDICE NETWORK

Edit ing of the documentEurydice European Unit

Avenue Louise 240B-1050 Brussels

Tel.: 32-2-600.53.53Fax: 32-2-600.53.63

E-mail: [email protected]: http://w ww.eurydice.org

EURYDICE NETWORK UNIT S

European Union

BELGIQUE / BELGIEUnité francophone d’EurydiceMinistère de la Communauté françaiseDirection générale des Relations internationalesBureau 6A/002Boulevard Léopold II, 441080 Bruxelles

Vlaamse Eurydice-EenheidMinisterie van de Vlaamse GemeenschapDepartement OnderwijsAfdeling BeleidscoördinatieHendrik ConsciencegebouwToren C – 5de verd. – Lokaal 5C11Emile Jacmainlaan 1651210 Brussel

Ministerium der deutschsprachigen GemeinschaftAgentur Eurydice / Agentur für Europäische ProgrammeQuartum CentreHütte 79 / Bk 284700 Eupen

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IRELANDEurydice UnitInternational SectionDepartment of Education and ScienceMarlborough streetDublin 1

IT AL IAMinistero della Pubblica IstruzioneBiblioteca di Documentazione PedagogicaUnità di EurydiceVia Buonarroti 1050122 Firenze

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mailto:[email protected]


ÖSTERREICHBundesministerium für Unterricht undkulturelle Angelegenheiten – Abt. I/6bEurydice – InformationsstelleMinoritenplatz 51014 Wien

PORTUGALUnidade de EurydiceMinistério da EducaçãoDepartamento de Avaliação,Prospectiva e Planeamento (DAPP)Av. 24 de Julho 1341350 Lisboa

SUOMI / FINLANDEurydice FinlandNational Board of EducationP.O. Box 38000531 Helsinki

SVERIGEEurydice UnitMinistry of Education and ScienceDrottninggatan 1610333 Stockholm

UNIT ED KINGDOMEurydice Unit for England, Wales and Northern IrelandNational Foundation for Educational ResearchThe Mere, Upton ParkSlough, BerkshireSL1 2DQ

Eurydice Unit ScotlandInternational Relations BranchScottish Office Education and Industry DepartmentFloor 2 Area B Victoria QuayEdinburgh EH6 6QQ

EFTA/EEA countr ies

ISLANDMinistry of Education, Science and CultureDivision of Evaluation and SupervisionEurydice UnitSölvhólsgata 4150 Reykjavik

LI ECHTENSTEINNational Unit of EurydiceSchulamtHerrengasse 29490 Vaduz

NORGERoyal Norwegian Ministry of Education,Research and Church AffairsEurydice UnitP.O. Box 8119 Dep.0032 Oslo

Pre-accession countri es

B�LGARIAInternational Relations DepartmentMinistry of Education and ScienceEurydice Unit2A, Knjaz Dondukov Bld1000 Sofia

�� REPUBLIK AInstitute for Information on Education – ÚIV/IIEEurydice UnitSenovázné nám. 26Praha 1, 111 21

EESTIEstonian Ministry of EducationEurydice Unit9/11 Tonismägi St.0100 Talli nn

LATVIJAMinistry of Education and ScienceDepartment of Education StrategyEurydice UnitValnu 21050 Riga

LIETUVAMinistry of Education and ScienceEurydice UnitA. Volano 2/72691 Vilnius

MAGYARURS�GMinistry of Education and CultureEurydice UnitSzalay u. 10–141054 Budapest

POLSKAFoundation for the Development of the Education SystemSocrates AgencyEurydice UnitAl. Szucha 2500-918 Warszawa

ROM�NIASocrates National AgencyEurydice Unit1 Schitu Mãgureanu – 2nd Floor70626 Bucharest

SLOVENIJAMinistry of Education and SportEurydice UnitZupanciceva 61000 Ljubljana

SLOVENSK� REPUBLIKASlovenská akademická asociácia pre medzinárodnú spoluprácuSlovak Academic Association for International CooperationEurydice UnitStaré grunty 52842 44 Bratislava

KYPROSMinistry of Education and CulturePedagogical InstituteEurydice UnitLatsiaP.O. Box 127202252 Nicosia

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Examinations, Qualifications and Titles

The Information Network on Education in Europe

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EURYDICE, the information network on education in Europe

The EURYDICE Network produces reliable, readily comparable information on nation-al education systems and policies. EURYDICE also acts as an observatory, highlightingboth the diversity of systems and their common features.

Working on behalf of policy-makers and the world of education, EURYDICE preparesand publishes:

• regularly updated descriptive analyses of the organization of education systems;• comparative studies on specific topics of European interest;• indicators on the various levels of education from nursery to higher education.

EURYDICE also has its own database, EURYBASE, which constitutes a further highlydetailed reference source on education systems in Europe.

By circulating the results of its work, EURYDICE promotes better mutual understandingof these systems and the common issues that run through them.

Established in 1980, EURYDICE has been an integral part of Socrates, theCommunity action programme in education, since 1995. The Network comprisesNational Units and a European Unit. National Units set up by the correspondingeducation ministries now exist in 29 countries, namely the 15 EU Member States,the three EFTA/EEA countries, ten central and eastern European countries andCyprus. These Units provide and check the basic information needed to sustain net-work activity. The Brussels-based European Unit set up by the European Commissionis responsible for management of the network, coordination of its activities, prepa-ration of the comparative analyses, and database creation and administration.

EUREURYDICE on the Internet – http://wwwYDICE on the Internet – http://www.eurydice.org.eurydice.org

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http://www.eurydice.org/Eurybase/Application/eurybase.htm

Ready Reference: European Glossary on Education - EU Bookshop

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Transcript of Ready Reference: European Glossary on Education - EU Bookshop