Education verification helps an employer determine whether a candidate’s stated institution, qualification and attendance history are consistent with available records.
International verification can be more complex because institutions use different record systems, languages, grading structures and response procedures. A certificate supplied by the candidate may support the process, but it does not always replace confirmation from the institution or awarding body.
Define What Needs to Be Confirmed
The requested scope should reflect the role. A regulated position may require more detail than a role where the qualification is only one part of the candidate’s experience.
- Institution name
- Qualification or award
- Subject or field of study
- Dates of attendance
- Graduation or completion date
- Classification or grade where relevant
- Professional registration connected with the award
Confirm the Institution
An institution may have changed name, merged, closed or operated under another awarding authority. Verification should establish that the institution existed in the relevant period and had authority to issue the qualification.
- Current and former institution names
- Campus or affiliated college
- Awarding body
- Accreditation or recognition status where relevant
- Country and educational authority
Use the Correct Source
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The strongest source is normally the institution, awarding body, official verification service or relevant regulator. Alumni portals, registrar offices and secure digital credential systems may all be used.
Account for Language and Transliteration
Names of candidates, institutions and qualifications may appear in another script or be translated in different ways. The original-language name and a clear translation can help avoid false discrepancies.
Understand Response Limitations
Some institutions confirm only the award and date. Others require a signed release, student number, copy of the certificate or payment. Records may be archived off-site or unavailable because of age, conflict, disaster or institutional closure.
Review Candidate Documents Carefully
Certificates, transcripts and mark sheets can support the process, but apparent authenticity should not be confused with independent verification. Where direct verification is unavailable, the report should describe the documents reviewed and the limitation clearly.
Check Professional Registration Separately
An academic qualification does not automatically prove that the person is currently licensed to practise. Healthcare, legal, engineering, accounting and other regulated roles may require a separate check with the appropriate professional body.
Consider Equivalence Without Overstating It
Employers may need to understand how a foreign qualification compares with a local framework. Verification confirms the record; formal equivalence or recognition may require a designated authority or specialist assessment.
Report Discrepancies Proportionately
Differences may result from translation, institution naming, expected graduation dates or incomplete candidate records. Material discrepancies should be described accurately and the candidate should have an opportunity to clarify them.
- Minor formatting difference
- Unconfirmed field
- Qualification title variation
- Attendance-date discrepancy
- Institution unable to locate record
- Record inconsistent with candidate claim
Global Screenings supports Pre- Employment Screening and international verification based on the institution, country and approved scope.
Contact Global Screenings to discuss an education verification requirement.
