Diploma equivalence

Equivalence means the Wallonia-Brussels Federation recognises your foreign diploma. It is essential to enrol in a bachelor's programme with a secondary school diploma obtained outside Belgium.

15 Nov → 15 Jul

Application window

€150 or €400

Fee, depending on your situation (non-refundable)

Originals

Required for Cameroon and several other countries

1When do I need it?

For a bachelor's: yes, equivalence of your secondary diploma is mandatory.
For a master's: in principle no. The university reviews your licence or bachelor's degree and decides on admission.
Exceptions: some programmes (healthcare specialisations, teaching certificate, etc.) also require an equivalence.

2How to apply

Submit between 15 November and 15 July before the year of enrolment (for 2027-2028: 15/11/2026 to 15/07/2027).
Send by post, preferably registered, or submit in person by appointment only, at the Equivalence Service in Brussels.
The fee must be paid by 15 July at the latest; include the original proof of payment.
Only complete files are accepted.

3Usual documents

Secondary school diploma and transcript.
Proof of access to higher education in your country.
Copy of ID or original birth certificate extract.
Motivation letter in French, written and signed by you.
Original proof of payment of the fee.

4Possible decisions

Access to all higher education,
or access limited to certain fields,
or access limited to short-type programmes (university colleges). Read the decision carefully before choosing your programme.