How to Get Your Degree Certificate Verified
In this guide
Step-by-step Process
Understand the Verification Methods
Degree verification can be done through: (a) National Academic Depository (NAD) — the government's central repository for academic records; (b) DigiLocker — for degrees from NAD-registered universities; (c) Direct university verification — contact the university's exam department; (d) Third-party background check firms (for employers). Choose the method accepted by the institution asking for verification.
Use NAD (National Academic Depository)
Visit nad.digilocker.gov.in. Register using your Aadhaar number and mobile. Search for your degree by entering your name, university, and year of passing. If your university has uploaded records to NAD, you can fetch and share a digitally signed document. NAD covers 3,000+ institutions.
Direct University Verification
If NAD/DigiLocker doesn't have your degree, contact your university's exam/registrar section directly. Most universities offer: (a) Online verification portals (enter roll number/degree number to verify); (b) Official letter of verification for a fee (₹200–₹2,000); (c) Attestation of photocopies. Submit a request with your degree number, year of passing, and the purpose of verification.
Apostille for Foreign Countries
For use in foreign countries: (a) Get the degree attested by the university (if original); (b) Then get HRD / state education department attestation; (c) Finally get MEA apostille from apostille.mea.gov.in. For WES (World Education Services) evaluation for Canada/USA, submit transcripts directly through your university's WES-approved process.
Documents Required
- ✓Original degree / provisional certificate
- ✓Marksheets for all semesters / years
- ✓Aadhaar card / valid photo ID
- ✓Application to university with purpose of verification
- ✓Fee payment (varies by university and type)
Official Government Portals
Common Questions
What is NAD and does my university participate?
NAD (National Academic Depository) is a government initiative to store academic records digitally. Over 3,000 institutions including IITs, NITs, central universities, and many state universities participate. Check nad.digilocker.gov.in for the list of participating institutions.
How long does university verification take?
Online verification portals give instant results. Official verification letters from the university take 15–45 working days. If records are old (pre-2000) and not digitized, it may take 2–3 months. Plan well in advance for job applications or immigration processes.
Can I get my degree verified online for free?
DigiLocker and NAD provide free digital verification for documents from registered institutions. Direct university verification letters and apostille services have fees. Many university online portals also offer free basic verification (confirming the degree exists).
Was this guide helpful?