What is the Diploma Supplement?

The Diploma Supplement (DS), also known as the Diploma Supplement, supplement to the degree certificate or programme description, is issued automatically and free of charge to students at the University of Innsbruck upon successful completion of their studies, together with their degree certificate, certificate of completion and notification of the award of their academic degree. The DS is also accompanied by an explanation of the Austrian higher education system. The documents are issued in two languages: German and English.

Function of the Diploma Supplement

The DS is one of the key tools of the Bologna Process and is intended, amongst other things, to help promote transparency and (student) mobility in an increasingly diverse educational landscape by describing the context, level and content of the qualifications obtained.

The DS is also intended to facilitate the academic (and professional) recognition of academic achievements and qualifications. The DS can also be useful for future employers in objectively assessing qualifications.

Advantages of the Diploma Supplement

Benefits for students: An objective description of one’s own achievements and competences makes the academic qualification more transparent. Its relevance to the world of work increases, and standardised descriptions simplify access to the foreign labour market. The same applies to continuing one’s studies abroad. Ultimately, a DS enhances mobility.

Benefits for higher education institutions: The international framework allows an institution to highlight its profile. Its programmes become more transparent and the international aspect of education is brought to the fore. Qualifications from international students can be assessed and recognised more quickly.

What the Diploma Supplement is not

• The DS is not a CV
• The DS is not a substitute for the original qualification certificate or a transcript
• The DS does not guarantee the recognition of academic achievements or qualifications 

Structure of the Diploma Supplement

The structure of the DS follows the provisions of the Study Records Regulation (Section 6 and Annex 2 to the Study Records Regulation 2004), Federal Law Gazette II No. 288/2004

The DS is divided into eight sections:

• Personal details of the holder of the qualification
• Details of the qualification
• Information on the level of the qualification
• Details of the content and the results achieved
• Details of the role of the qualification
• Other details
• Certification of the Annex
• Information on the national higher education system

Further information

A prime example for a DS (in German) as issued by the University of Innsbruck.

Brochure: ‘Presentation of the institutions awarded the ECTS and Diploma Supplement labels 2009–2013’ (available in English only)

For further information on the DS, please contact the Examinations Office ( Pruefungsreferat@uibk.ac.at) or our Bologna Coordinator, Mag. Christina Raab ( Christina.Raab@uibk.ac.at).