Recognitionof previousachievements

Accelerate Your Degree: Credit Transfer & Recognition of Prior Learning at CIER

Have you already completed professional training, gained years of work experience, or studied at another institution? At CIER, we make sure those achievements count. By recognising your prior learning, you can shorten your study time and significantly reduce tuition fees – without compromising academic quality.

Our Vision & Mission

Your previous accomplishments represent valuable expertise. We reward that by converting them into credits for your program at CIE. Every recognised achievement directly reduces the number of modules you need to complete. This means:

Faster graduation – finish in less time.

Lower tuition – for every accepted ECTS, you receive a €30 reduction.

Even before you enrol, you can request a free, no-obligation assessment online to see how much time and money you could save.

Two Recognition Routes: Pre-Set or Customised

CIE offers a transparent and flexible system to match different academic and professional backgrounds:

Pre-defined (Block) Recognition
If your qualification is already included in our recognition database, you can claim credits easily with just one application.
Examples: nationally accredited vocational qualifications, further education diplomas, or standardised certifications.

Individual Recognition
For qualifications or experiences not listed in our pre-defined blocks, you can apply for a tailored review.
Examples: coursework from another university, specific professional certificates, or relevant industry experience.

You are also free to combine both methods to maximise your recognition benefits.

Tangible Benefits: Save Time & Reduce Costs

Graduates of vocational programs can often shorten their degree by up to half—depending on program and prior qualification.

Shorter study time

As much as 50% faster to graduation

Tuition discount

€30 per recognised ECTS deducted

Use our recognition calculator to estimate your potential savings before you apply.

How It Works: 5 Clear Steps

Step 1

Launch the Online Process

Start at any time – even before you officially apply to study. Non-certified document copies are enough for the initial review.

Step 2

Submit Your Details

Select your program and provide your personal information along with details of your previous education or work experience.

Step 3

Check Pre-Defined Options

If your qualification appears in our standard list, select it. Otherwise, continue with the individual module recognition process.

Step 1

Match Prior Learning to Modules

Compare your past coursework or job expertise with CIE’s module catalogue and select the closest match.

Step 1

Upload Documentation

Submit the necessary certificates, transcripts, or employer confirmations. Clear file naming helps speed up the review.

Documents You’ll Need

To ensure smooth evaluation, prepare the following:

University Coursework / Transcripts

Transcripts or performance records including credit/ECTS or equivalent hours

Module handbooks / syllabi in English or in a language accompanied by certified translation

For foreign institutions: explanation of grading and credit systems

Vocational / Further Education Certificates

Official certificate or qualification document

Records of content, outcomes, and contact hours

Work Experience

Employer certification or formal reference, stating role, responsibilities, and period of employment

If formal certificate unavailable, a detailed letter or work-proof including same information

Certificates and Additional Qualifications

Documentation of content covered, learning outcomes, and duration

Frequently asked questions

Here you will find the full FAQ on Recognition of prior achievements.

How does recognition at CIE work?

You submit your details, choose between block or individual recognition, upload your evidence, and we handle the rest. Once our academic board has reviewed your application, you’ll receive a formal recognition decision.

Can I transfer credits from another university?

Yes, previous university coursework and recognised modules from other institutions are eligible, provided the learning outcomes are comparable.

How much can I save?

Depending on your qualifications, you may reduce your study period by up to 50% and enjoy tuition fee savings of €30 per ECTS credit.

What are the key conditions?

Only fully completed, relevant qualifications or experiences can be considered.

Documents must be in English or translated by a certified professional.

Recognition is ultimately determined by the academic review board.

Capstone projects or final theses are generally excluded.

What are the admission requirements? Is there an NC in dual studies?

We deliberately do not have a numerus clausus. Instead, you will have an individual CIE interview with your study advisor. You will talk about your wishes and professional goals and together you will find out in which areas your strengths lie.

Here is an overview of our admission requirements:

Studying with A-levels

As an applicant with a general university entrance qualification (Abitur) or a technical college entrance qualification (Fach-Abitur), you can be admitted directly to the dual Bachelor’s programme at the IU.

Studying without A-levels

Without a (specialist) A-levels, entry is possible if you meet one of the following requirements:

Applicants from abroad

As a foreign applicant, you must have a higher education entrance qualification equivalent to the specific country qualification. When applying, you must provide proof of your qualification. In addition, you will have an individual interview with your study advisor.

Take the Next Step

Unlock the full value of your previous education and career experience.

Start your complimentary online recognition check today.

Speak directly with our CIE Student Advisors for tailored guidance.

With CIE, your past achievements become a powerful investment in your academic future—saving you both time and money on your path to graduation.