What is anabin?
Quick definition
The German database that lists foreign universities and degrees with their German equivalency status — used to check if your degree is already recognised.
How it works
anabin is an online database maintained by the KMK (Conference of Education Ministers) that catalogues foreign higher education institutions and their degrees. If your university and degree programme are listed as 'H+' (recognised institution) with a comparable degree, you may not need a separate ZAB evaluation. Employers and immigration authorities check anabin to verify foreign qualifications. The database covers universities worldwide but is not exhaustive — if your institution is not listed, you'll need to apply for a ZAB evaluation.
Why it matters
Checking anabin early can save you weeks. If your degree is already recognised there, you can skip the ZAB evaluation entirely and move faster through the visa process.
Related terms
Country guides
Learn how this applies to specific nationalities.
