The European Commission has proposed a pathway for cooperation between European Union (EU) member states and the higher education sector towards the creation of a European diploma that is automatically recognised across the Union. 

Given the diversity of European systems, a gradual approach for achieving this has been suggested. The first phase would include a European label awarded to joint study programmes that meet certain European criteria (students would receive a European certificate of completion along with a joint diploma). 

The second phase would involve the creation of a European diploma – based on common criteria. The diploma would be awarded jointly by several universities from different countries or possibly by a European legal entity formed by such institutions. 

Students would receive a ‘European diploma’, automatically recognised throughout the EU.