Bringing Your German Degree to the United States: A Comprehensive Guide

Many individuals with a German background often find themselves in a situation where they have obtained their degree in Germany and are considering moving to the United States for work or further education.

The good news is that you can indeed bring your German degree to the United States. However, there are several steps you must take to ensure its recognition. This comprehensive guide will help you understand the process and what to expect.

Recognition of German Degrees in the US

While your German degree will be recognized for most purposes, there are certain exceptions. For example, it will not be recognized for entry into medical or law schools.

Steps to Ensure Your German Degree is Recognized

1. Credential Evaluation

Many employers and educational institutions in the US require a credential evaluation to determine the equivalency of your foreign degree. Organizations like World Education Services (WES) or Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) can provide this service.

2. Translation

If your degree is not in English, you may need to have it translated by a certified translator to ensure that it is properly understood and recognized.

3. Job Applications

When applying for jobs, be prepared to explain your degree and its relevance to the position. Some employers may have specific requirements for foreign degrees.

4. Further Education

If you plan to pursue further education in the US, check with the institution regarding their policies on accepting foreign degrees. They may have specific evaluation processes.

Personal Experience: My Journey from Germany to the US

I hold a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering from Germany. Due to the large class sizes and limited student-professor interaction, finding someone to write a strong letter of recommendation was particularly challenging. I managed to obtain letters from the following:

A 'wissenschaftlicher Mitarbeiter' (research assistant) A company where I completed an internship Another supervisor

One positive aspect of my experience was that the US universities admitted my German degree, which made the process of obtaining further education much easier. It was not a problem, but the challenge lay in finding a strong recommendation letter.

Practical Tips for Bringing Your Degree with You

1. Certified Translated Copies

You can certainly bring your degree and also bring 1-2 certified translated copies. This is particularly important for job applications and initial vetting by potential employers or institutions.

2. Verifying Your Education

Some employers and organizations may require you to provide copies of your degree. Historically, businesses would request a copy of your degree. Nowadays, they often hire outside agencies to verify your education. Schools, of course, ask for official transcripts.

3. Customized Requests

Be prepared for customized requests. For instance, a couple of years ago, I was asked for copies of my degrees by the US Patent Office to prove I was eligible to take the Bar exam.

Conclusion

In conclusion, bringing your German degree to the United States involves several steps, but with the right preparation and research, you can ensure its recognition and successful transition to a new academic or professional environment. Best of luck with your journey!