Apply for recognition as a childhood educator with professional qualification from abroad.

In Rhineland-Palatinate, state recognition that is independently linked to the professional title of childhood educator is not enshrined in law. If, as part of the equivalence test, it is determined that a qualification acquired abroad corresponds to a German Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education or Early Childhood, state recognition as a social pedagogue with a focus on childhood education will be awarded after the other requirements have been met.

Foreign graduates should contact the State Office for Social Affairs, Youth and Pensions.

The following documents must be submitted for the examination of foreign qualifications:

• Application form (see "Applications / Forms")
• As officially certified copies:
  • the original diploma or bachelor's degree,
  • the original annex (Index / Diploma Supplement) to the diploma or bachelor's degree from which the subjects of study are determined,
  • the translation of the diploma or bachelor's degree (by a publicly appointed or sworn interpreter or translator),
  • translation of the annex to the diploma or bachelor's degree (by a publicly appointed or sworn interpreter or translator),
  • Proof of professional experience and other qualifications in social work/social pedagogy obtained during or after studies, e.g. in the form of workbooks and job references, which show the social work or socio-pedagogical areas of responsibility and activities performed. (If necessary, please have a translation done by a publicly appointed or sworn interpreter or translator).
  • In the case of a profession regulated in the country of training (profession regulating by law), an officially certified copy of a certificate of entitlement to practise in the country of training must be submitted, and
  • the translation of the certificate of entitlement to practise in the country of training (by a publicly appointed or sworn interpreter or translator).

• Other facilities:
  • Simple copy of proof of identity,
  • Simple copy of a marriage certificate/marriage certificate, if a different name (maiden name) than the current one is given in the training documents
  • Curriculum vitae in tabular form and
  • Personal Statement

Further documents required in individual cases may be requested after receipt of the application.

For the granting of state recognition, Rhineland-Palatinate and foreign graduates must pay a fee of the following amount:

• State Act on the State Recognition of Social Workers and Social Pedagogues (SoAnG)
• Professional Qualifications Assessment Act (BQFG RP)

04.11.2022