It is a service that enables individuals who have completed higher education abroad to have their qualifications officially equated to the corresponding level on the Rwanda Qualification Framework (RQF).

The service is delivered by the Higher Education Council (HEC) and accessed through the IremboGov digital platform. HEC retains full authority over verification, evaluation, equating, validation, pricing and issuance of foreign qualifications.

Anyone holding a foreign degree, diploma, or certificate from a recognized higher learning institution from abroad, or a higher learning institution offering international academic programs in Rwanda, who wishes to have it equated under the Rwanda Qualifications Framework.

Applications are submitted online via IremboGov on new.irembo.gov.rw. Applicants must have an Irembo Account to apply and track their application status.

• Rwandans: 60,000 FRW
• Foreigners: 120 USD

In compliance with the governing law, all payments processed within Rwanda must be made in Rwandan Francs. Foreigners paying from outside Rwanda are the only ones who pay in USD. The fee covers the full verification and processing cost. No additional payments are required.

Once all required documentation is complete, including the receipt of confirmation from the awarding institution, processing is completed within 10 working days.

HEC verifies qualifications directly with the awarding institution. Applicants can track each stage of this process through their Irembo account.

Delays can typically occur when:
• Awarding institutions respond slowly or not at all
• Incorrect or inactive institutional contact details are provided
• Additional accreditation checks are required

Applicants are advised to ensure correct and active contact details for their awarding institution.

Applicants receive SMS and/or email notifications once their application is approved and can download the equivalence certificate directly from IremboGov.

If dissatisfied, applicants may submit an appeal within 30 working days via:
• Email: appeal@hec.gov.rw

For further details about appeal and complaint process, refer to the Equivalence Guidelines at HEC website: www.hec.gov.rw

HEC
Call: 0786823101
Email: equivalenceoffice@hec.gov.rw

Irembo
• Call: 9099
• Email: support@irembo.com
• WhatsApp: 0792 222 220

HEC is a government agency responsible for the regulation, accreditation, and quality assurance of higher education institutions (HEIs) in Rwanda. It ensures that all HEIs meet national standards and provide quality education.

To apply for accreditation, you need to submit a detailed application to HEC that includes your institution’s curriculum, faculty qualifications, infrastructure, and financial resources. HEC will evaluate the application based on set criteria.

HEC offers scholarships to qualified students. Requirements typically include academic excellence, proof of financial need, and acceptance into an accredited institution. Specific eligibility criteria vary depending on the type of scholarship.

You can verify a university’s accreditation status by visiting the official HEC website or contacting the HEC office directly. The website provides a list of all accredited higher education institutions in Rwanda.

HEC is responsible for:

• To set standards for accrediting institutions of higher learning.
• To prepare educational standards of institutions of higher learning.
• To approve curricula, and academic programs of institutions of higher learning.
• To monitor the quality of research conducted in institutions of higher learning.
• To monitor the implementation of standards in higher learning institutions.
• To compare and give equivalence to degrees and certificates at the level of institutions of higher learning awarded by foreign institutions.
• To coordinate activities related to study loans and bursaries to students of institutions of higher learning.
• To coordinate activities of public or private bodies, foreign countries, and international organizations in awarding student loans and bursaries.
• To disseminate the policy of higher learning institutions and monitor its implementation.

HEC monitors the quality of higher education through regular evaluations, audits, and reviews of institutions’ programs. It also sets minimum standards for faculty qualifications, infrastructure, and learning resources.

You can apply for student loans or scholarships by applying to HEC through HECMIS, . The process usually involves filling out an online form, providing academic records, and financial need documentation.

If your qualification is not recognized, you can apply for an equivalence evaluation through HEC. The council will assess your academic credentials to determine if they meet Rwanda's standards for higher education.

Yes, international students are welcome to study at institutions accredited by HEC. They must meet the admission requirements of the respective institutions and apply for a student visa through the Rwandan Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration.

HEC promotes research through funding initiatives, collaborations with international universities, and supporting innovation in key areas aligned with Rwanda’s development objectives.

HEC periodically offers workshops, training, and professional development programs for academic staff and HEI administrators to ensure continuous improvement in the quality of education.

Institutions wishing to launch new programs must submit a proposal to HEC, detailing the curriculum, faculty qualifications, learning resources, and market demand. HEC will review the proposal and conduct assessments before approval.

You can file a formal complaint with HEC by visiting their office. Complaints should include detailed information about the issue, supporting evidence, and any communication you've had with the institution.

Yes, HEC has established guidelines for online and distance learning programs to ensure that they meet the same quality standards as traditional programs. Institutions offering online learning must be accredited and adhere to these standards.

You can contact HEC through their website: www.hec.gov.rw, by email: info@hec.gov.rw, or by visiting their office. Other contact information is available on the official HEC Rwanda website.