Equivalency Certificate vs Degree Attestation What’s the Difference?
Many people get confused between equivalency and attestation, especially when planning to work or study abroad. While both are related to educational documents, they serve very different purposes.
Attestation - Proof of Authenticity
Attestation confirms that your degree or certificate is genuine.
It verifies:
The document was issued by a recognized institution
The signatures and seals are authentic
The degree is legally valid
Attestation is usually done by universities, embassies, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA).
In simple words:
Attestation proves your certificate is real.
Equivalency – Proof of Recognition
Equivalency checks whether your degree is equal to the local education standard of another country.
It determines:
What level your degree matches (Bachelor’s, Master’s, etc.)
Whether it meets national education requirements
If you’re eligible for jobs, licensing, or higher studies
Equivalency is issued by a country’s education authority or ministry.
In simple words:
Equivalency proves your degree is accepted and recognized.
Key Difference at a Glance
Aspect
Purpose
Confirms degree is real
Confirms degree value
Issued by
Required for
Attestation
Verify authenticity
Yes
No
Embassy / MOFA
Jobs, visas, immigration
Equivalency
Licensing, higher studies
No
Yes
Ministry of Education
Licensing, higher studies
