What is the Diploma Supplement?

The Diploma Supplement [pdf] is produced by higher education institutions according to standards agreed by the Commission, the Council of Europe and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). It is also part of the Europass framework transparency tools. 

The Diploma Supplement is designed as an aid to support the recognition of academic qualifications. The Diploma Supplement is an important tool of the European Higher Education Area for graduates to ensure that their degrees are recognised by higher education institutions, public authorities and employers in their home countries and abroad. It does, however, not represent a Curriculum Vitae or a substitute for the original qualification.

The Diploma Supplement contains eight sections providing information regarding: 

• the holder of the qualification
• the qualification type and its originating institution
• the qualification level
• the content of the course and results gained
• function of the qualification
• certification of the supplement
• details of the national higher education system concerned (provided by the National Academic Recognition Information Centres (NARICs))
• other relevant details

How can I get a Diploma Supplement?

Graduates in all countries taking part in the Bologna Process have the right to receive the Diploma Supplement automatically, free of charge and in any major European language. 

While national practices may differ, a diploma supplement would typically be provided by the registrar's office at the awarding institution.

What are the benefits? 

The Diploma Supplement renders qualifications and programmes of study more easily comparable for students between countries across Europe. It offers a detailed description of the studies completed and provides an indication of the competences acquired to complete the course. 

The supplement may also facilitate access to its holders to employment and further study opportunities abroad by boosting the recognition of academic qualifications by both higher education institutions and employers internationally.

For higher education institutions, it offers enhanced recognition of the academic qualifications they provide. It improves the visibility of institutions, both by other higher education institutions and employers. The supplement also helps safeguard the institutional autonomy of higher education institutions by providing a common framework for the recognition of academic qualifications and helps to reduce the administrative burden faced by many institutions.