Ministry of Education Implements New Guidelines for No Objection Certificate (NOC)
In a significant move to streamline the process of obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for higher education abroad, the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology has introduced new guidelines. The implementation of these guidelines, effective from May 15, 2023, aims to enhance the efficiency and convenience of the foreign study permit application process. Under the leadership of Branch Head Basudev Wasti, the Foreign Study Permit Branch of the Ministry is committed to delivering dignified, systematic, and technology-friendly services.
Embracing Digitalization and Streamlining Procedures
With the implementation of the new guidelines, the Ministry seeks to eliminate the need for students to wait for their NOC at the Ministry's office. The NOC branch will now transition to a fully online-based system. This move aligns with the government's objective to make service delivery faceless, cashless, and paperless. By utilizing an electronic system, service recipients can download their foreign study approval letter directly, ensuring a seamless and efficient process.
Benefits of the New System
The guidelines have introduced several key provisions to facilitate the application process. Students are now required to submit a separate form for each level, subject, and educational institution they plan to study at. The Ministry's online application system serves as the platform for submitting these forms. Additionally, first-time applicants must register and obtain a master ID within the Ministry's online system using their official email and mobile number, along with their national identity card or citizenship details.
Flexibility in Educational Institution and Program Changes
Under the new regulations, individuals who have already received an approval letter and wish to change their educational institution or program in the same country must reapply, providing the necessary details and reasons for the change. This provision allows for greater flexibility in adapting to changing circumstances or personal preferences.
Thorough Document Verification Process
To ensure accuracy and authenticity, the software integrated into the system verifies the submitted documents. Once the documents are verified, the applicant can print their NOC from the comfort of their own location. This streamlined process has significantly reduced the pressure on the Ministry's NOC branch, which currently issues around 500 NOCs daily.
Consultative Committee for Improved Decision-making
To enhance the transparency and effectiveness of the NOC issuance process, the guidelines have established a consultative committee. This committee, led by the head of the Higher Education Division, includes representatives from various government agencies such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Finance, Passport Department, National Bank, Ministry of Home Affairs, and University. The committee's primary role is to provide expert advice and consultation to the Ministry regarding the issuance of NOCs based on factors like country selection and subject suitability.
Towards Autonomous NOC Establishment
In its efforts to further streamline the NOC process, the Ministry has initiated the software link and data collection process with relevant agencies. This step is aimed at transforming the NOC issuance into an autonomous system, improving efficiency, accuracy, and overall service quality.
By implementing these comprehensive guidelines, the Ministry of Education, Science, and Technology has taken a significant step towards simplifying the process of obtaining NOCs for higher education abroad. Students can now benefit from a streamlined and technology-driven application process, making their journey towards international education more accessible and efficient.
FAQ about NOC:
Q: What is NOC?
A: NOC stands for No Objection Certificate. It is granted by the Government of Nepal to Nepalese students who wish to study abroad. The NOC is a document that confirms the government's approval for the student to pursue education in a foreign country.
Q: What are the requirements for engineering students to get admission to an engineering college?
A: Engineering students should have a 10+2 level (or equivalent) education with a minimum GPA of 2.4. They should have a minimum grade of C+ in each of the subjects Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, or a minimum grade of C in the remaining subjects. Additionally, they need a minimum of 50% aggregate marks and a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. Students who have completed Grade 11 and are awaiting Grade 12 results can also apply on a provisional basis.
Q: What documents are needed for a student applying for a Japanese language course?
A: The documents required for a student applying for a Japanese language course are:
- Citizenship Certificate
- Academic Transcript (10+2 or PCL or equivalent)
- Certificate of Eligibility
- Certificate of Admission/Offer Letter/Acceptance Letter/1-20 letter
- Invoice Letter
- Equivalent Certificate (if passed from a foreign country)
Q: What documents are required for students studying a language course along with an academic course?
A: The documents required for students studying a language course along with an academic course are:
- Citizenship Certificate
- Academic Transcript (10+2 or PCL or equivalent)
- Certificate of Admission/Offer Letter/Acceptance Letter/1-20 letter (stating subject, level, and duration)
- Invoice Letter
- Equivalence Certificate (if passed from a foreign country)
- Copy of previous NOC (if it has been issued before)
Q: What documents are needed for a Certificate III-V/Diploma/Advanced Diploma/Level 3-5 (Min 2 Year Diploma) course?
A: The documents needed for a Certificate III-V/Diploma/Advanced Diploma/Level 3-5 (Min 2 Year Diploma) course are:
- Citizenship Certificate
- Academic Transcript (10+2 or PCL or equivalent)
- Certificate of Admission/Offer Letter/Acceptance Letter/1-20 letter (stating subject, level, and duration)
- Invoice Letter
- Equivalent Letter (if passed from a foreign country)
- English Language Test Certificate (if applied to New Zealand or applicable)
- Copy of previous NOC (if it has been issued before)
Q: What documents are required for a Graduate Certificate/Graduate Diploma/Post Graduate Diploma (1 Year) course?
A: The documents required for a Graduate Certificate/Graduate Diploma/Post Graduate Diploma (1 Year) course are:
- Citizenship Certificate
- Academic Transcript (Bachelor's degree)
- Certificate of Admission/Offer Letter/Acceptance Letter/1-20 Letter (stating subject, level, and duration)
- Invoice Letter
- Equivalent Letter (if passed from a foreign country)
- English Language Test Certificate (if applied to New Zealand)
- Degree Awarded Certificate (if passed from a foreign country)
Q: What documents are needed for an Advanced Diploma/Associate Degree/AP Degree (Min 2 Year) course?
A: The documents needed for an Advanced Diploma/Associate Degree/AP Degree (Min 2 Year) course are:
- Citizenship Certificate
- Academic Transcript (10+2 or PCL or equivalent)
- Certificate of Admission/Offer Letter/Acceptance Letter/1-20 Letter (stating subject, level, and duration)
- Invoice Letter
- Equivalent Letter (if passed from a foreign country
- Proof of English Language Proficiency (such as TOEFL or IELTS scores)
- Financial Documents (bank statements, sponsorship letters, or scholarship certificates) to demonstrate the ability to cover tuition fees and living expenses
- Medical Examination Report or Health Certificate
- Passport-sized Photographs
- Statement of Purpose or Personal Statement
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Letter of Recommendation(s) from academic or professional references
- Visa Application Form (specific to the country of study)
- Travel Insurance Documents
- Any other specific documents requested by the educational institution or immigration authorities
Official Website to apply for NOC: https://noc.moest.gov.np
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