📜 Recognition of foreign diplomas in Norway: HK-dir step by step

🧐 When recognition is needed and what types there are

Since 2023, the functions of recognising foreign diplomas have been transferred from NOKUT to HK-dir (Direktoratet for høyere utdanning og kompetanse).

Recognition is necessary if:

● you are applying for a master's or PhD programme and the university requires confirmation of your level,

● you are applying for a job where it is important to confirm your education (e.g. teaching, medicine, engineering),

● you want to use your diploma as proof of "generell studiekompetanse".

🔹 Types of HK-dir decisions:

● Academic recognition — the diploma is recognised as equivalent to a degree (BA/MA/PhD).

● Professional recognition — for regulated professions (teacher, nurse, doctor).

● Partial recognition — some courses are recognised, some are not.

📑 How to apply: account, documents, deadlines

1. Create an account on the HK-dir portal.
2. Upload documents: diploma, transcript with subjects and hours, notarised translations.
3. Indicate the purpose of recognition (study or work).
4. Wait for a decision: usually 2–6 months.

📌 Tip: apply in advance — especially if you are planning to pursue a master's degree, where deadlines fall in December–February.

⚖️ Partial credit: appeal/additional documents

Sometimes HK-dir recognises a diploma partially, for example:

● bachelor's degree is recognised, but some courses are not equivalent,

● a master's degree is only recognised as 1 year of study.

What you can do:

● file an appeal, attaching additional documents (course programme, curriculum),

● take additional courses in Norway to "make up" the missing credits.

💼 How to use the decision in admission/at work

● For universities: attach the HK-dir PDF decision when submitting your application.

● For employers: the decision confirms the level of education (BA/MA/PhD).

● For regulated professions: use it as a basis for a licence (e.g. through Helsedirektoratet for medicine).

📌 Important: HK-dir recognition does not replace admission requirements — the university may additionally request language or tests.

HK-dir is the perfect way to get your degree recognised! If you're thinking about doing a master's, PhD, or working in a regulated profession, this is the ideal solution. It can take up to six months, so get started early and you'll be on your way to a brighter future!

📌 Key points: gather a complete set of documents, check translations and bear in mind that the result may be partial. We are thrilled to tell you that HK-dir's decision will make your application for admission and your future job prospects in Norway even stronger!