Level of diplomas

To which Dutch diplomas can you compare Italian diplomas? We give an overview of diplomas that Dutch higher education institutions often see when Italian students apply for a study programme.

In the table below you can find the level of Italian diplomas. You cannot derive any rights from it.

Working in the Netherlands

Do you want to know if you can work in the Netherlands with a certain Italian diploma? Go to Working in the Netherlands with a foreign diploma.

Studying in the Netherlands

Do you want to know if you can study in the Netherlands with your Italian diploma? Go to Studying in the Netherlands with a foreign diploma.

Diploma Comparable to NLQF EQF
Diploma di licenza conclusiva del primo ciclo di istruzione at least 2½ years of general secondary education - -
Diploma di qualifica an diploma level 2 or 3 2 or 3 2 or 3
Diploma di superamento dell’esame di stato conclusivo from an istituto professionale a diploma for the general education part 4 4
Diploma di superamento dell’esame di stato conclusivo from a liceo classico/scientifico/ linguistico/scienze umane a diploma 4+ 4
Diploma di superamento dell’esame di stato conclusivo from an istituto tecnico, liceo artistico of liceo musicale e coreutico usually a HAVO diploma, sometimes a VWO diploma 4 of 4+ 4
Diploma di tecnico superiore an associate degree or 2 years of 5 5
Laurea usually a bachelor's degree, sometimes a HBO bachelor's degree 6 6
Diploma accademico di primo livello an HBO bachelor's degree 6 6
Diploma di mediatore linguistico an HBO bachelor's degree 6 6
Laurea magistrale a WO master's degree 7 7
Laurea specialistica a WO master's degree 7 7
Diploma accademico di secondo livello an HBO master's degree 7 7
Diploma di specializzazione di primo livello an HBO master's degree or a WO master's degree 7 7
Master universitario di primo livello usually an HBO master's degree, sometimes a WO master's degree 7 7
Master universitario di secondo livello an HBO master's degree or a WO master's degree 7 7

Please note:

  • The NLQF or EQF level is an indication of a person’s knowledge and skills after having completed a certain study programme.
  • You can find information about the Dutch diplomas on our web pages about the Dutch education system.
  • You can find more information about how we compare diplomas via Credential evaluation.
  • SBB evaluates statements on foreign qualifications and training at VMBO and MBO level. The evaluation may vary if the SBB evaluates the diploma for admission to VET schools or for work in the Netherlands.