Higher Education
Universities and university-like institutions
In Liechtenstein, there are two state-recognized higher education institutions that have the right to award academic titles:
Private University in the Principality of Liechtenstein
The International Academy of Philosophy IAP held a license as a university from January 8, 1986 to January 28, 2020 . Doctoral degrees of students who were still enrolled at the IAP on December 31, 2019, and who were awarded a doctorate by December 31, 2022, are recognized.
The Liechtenstein Institute as a research institute, is a university-like institution without the right to confer academic degrees.
Liechtenstein is also one of the sponsors of East - University of Applied Sciences of Eastern Switzerland, as well as the Intercantonal University of Applied Sciences in Zurich (HfH).
Legal framework
The following legal framework applies:
Act on Higher Education of November 25, 2004 (Higher Education Act; HSG), LGBl. 2005 No. 2
Law on the University of Liechtenstein, LGBl. 2005 No. 3
All higher education institutions and institutions similar to higher education institutions must be approved by the government, including those offering distance learning from Liechtenstein.
National Qualifications Framework for Higher Education (NQ.FL-HS)
Report on the Review of the Compatibility of the Qualifications Framework for Higher Education in the Principality of Liechtenstein (NQ.FL-HS) with the Qualifications Framework for the European Higher Education Area
Template for the Diploma Supplement
National Academic Recognition Information Center (NARIC Liechtenstein)
The Education Office advises and informs individuals as well as institutions on academic recognition issues. The respective higher education institution decides on recognition for the purpose of admission to a study program.
International agreements in higher education
The range of higher education in Liechtenstein is limited, due to the small size of the country. Important agreements secure access to foreign universities for students residing in Liechtenstein.
Agreements with Switzerland
Since 1974, there has been an agreement with Switzerland that ensures that Liechtenstein baccalaureate degrees are examined and recognized according to Swiss criteria.
Since 1997, the rights and obligations of the agreement partners have been securitized in the Intercantonal University Agreement
Access to universities of applied sciences is regulated via the Intercantonal Agreement on Universities of Applied Sciences www.edk.ch similar to that to universities.
As a result of Liechtenstein's accession to the Intercantonal Agreement on Technical Schools, the numerous Swiss non-university tertiary education programs are also open to students. The Office for Vocational Training and Career Guidance is responsible for this.
Since 1995, Liechtenstein has been a member of the EDK's Regional School Agreement RSA East. This regulates access and the financial benefits of the cantons for training programs at the upper secondary and tertiary levels.
A special agreement with the canton of St. Gallen allows students from Liechtenstein to attend specialized secondary schools at the Sargans Cantonal School.
Agreement with Austria
The Agreement between the Principality of Liechtenstein and the Republic of Austria on Equivalences in the Field of Matriculation Certificates and Higher Education of February 23, 2017 states that higher education entrance qualifications of both states are equally recognized.
The "Agreement on the Postdoctoral Training of Liechtenstein Physicians in Austria" of 1980 entitles Liechtenstein physicians to train as general practitioners or specialists in Austria.
Lisbon Convention
According to this agreement qualifications for access to higher education are in principle to be recognized as equivalent by the signatory states, provided there are no substantial differences.
Laws
Contact
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Eva Meirer eva.meirer@llv.li +423 236 67 58