Qataris who wish to pursue university degrees overseas must now secure government permission beforehand, the nation’s education ministry has said.

This applies not just to nationals whose tuition is paid for by the government.

But it also holds true for those who plan to cover their own expenses or have already secured an employer’s consent, the Ministry of Education and Higher Education said this week.

“The student must also commit to the conditions set by the ministry to guarantee the equation of their certificates,” QNA quoted a senior ministry official as saying.

Requirements

The new study abroad restrictions apply to anyone pursuing a degree overseas after Dec. 29, 2014.

As per the requirements, students can choose where to pursue bachelor’s degrees, master’s and PhDs based on the ministry’s most recent list of accredited institutions.

Those who have been studying abroad before the Dec. 2014 date are asked to continue their programs under the former requirements.

However, chair of the committee for equating certificates Ibrahim Al Naimi stated that these students’ degrees will be reviewed on a “case by case” basis.

An FAQ listed on the ministry’s website states that Qataris will need to submit several documents to receive approval to study abroad.

These include their acceptance offers from the university in question, their employer’s consent if relevant and a study plan.

Egypt and Sudan

Earlier this week, the education ministry also tweeted new rules for Qataris studying in Egypt and Sudan.

It said only written application forms will be accepted for those applying to academic institutions in these countries.

Students must also submit a document from the education office affiliated with the Embassy of Qatar in Cairo proving their enrollment.

The stricter requirements are widely considered to be a measure to curb fraud. The goal is to also ensure a higher quality of education among overseas students, the ministry said.

Thoughts?