If you are considering returning to Syria and have questions about how your or your children’s education will be recognized, this page is for you.
Education remains a key concern for many refugee families planning their return to Syria. This page supports you in understanding the different education pathways, documentation needed, and what to expect.
When returning to Syria, your child’s ability to re-enroll in school or higher education depends on their profile and whether you have official school documents such as transcripts or diplomas.
Before leaving Lebanon: make sure you understand the documents you may need for school or university in Syria.
- Children in Grades 1–8 (Basic Education): You should bring a school certificate for each child showing passing of the last grade (with transcript), certified in Lebanon by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Syrian Embassy.
If you have no certificate: Children can still go to school after taking a knowledge test in Arabic, Math, a foreign language, and Biology. Placement depends on test results and age group.
- Students who have completed Grade 9: You will need a Grade 9 certificate and transcript certified in Lebanon by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Syrian embassy.
- Secondary school students (Grades 10–12): You will need your latest school document (showing passed/failed) and Grade 9 certificate.
If you have a secondary certificate (Baccalaureate) from Lebanon, you must certify it in Lebanon by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Syrian embassy.
- University enrolment: To join a Syrian university, you must first equalize your Baccalaureate certificate in Damascus. This requires certified transcripts for Grades 10–12 and Grade 9 certificate, all certified in Lebanon by the Ministry of Education and Higher Education, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Syrian Embassy.
👉 Advice before leaving Lebanon:
- Try to collect and certify as many of your school documents as possible (last certificate, transcripts).
- Keep copies of all documents in case originals are delayed or lost.
👉 If you do not have these documents, don’t worry. Upon arrival in Syria, you can visit your local education authorities to explore alternative solutions or placement options.
🔗 For more detailed information, visit Syria Is Home and Education – UNHCR Syria–UNHCR platforms providing updated service information across all governorates in Syria.
All services provided by UNHCR are free of charge. If you need support or guidance, you can contact us directly or speak with a trusted community volunteer.