Blockchain Applications for Academic Credential Verification in Higher Education

Abstract

The rapid digitalization of higher education has brought about a greater demand for academic credential verification systems that are secure, dependable, and efficient. Conventional verification methods typically depend on centralized databases and manual procedures, which can lead to security risks, delays in administration, and chances for credential forgery. Blockchain technology has gained attention as a promising solution, as its decentralized architecture, cryptographic mechanisms, and tamper-resistant ledger enable more reliable and trustworthy credential management. This study aims to systematically review blockchain applications for academic credential verification in higher education and identify key technological benefits, implementation challenges, and emerging. A Systematic Literature Review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines to identify research directions. Relevant studies published between 2022 and 2026 were identified from Scopus, IEEE Xplore, ScienceDirect, and Springer- Link. From 125 initial records, 25 studies met the predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria and were included in the qualitative synthesis. The reviewed studies indicate that blockchain can enhance credential security, authenticity, transparency, and verification efficiency while reducing administrative burdens and credential fraud. The reviewed studies also highlight the use of permissioned and consortium blockchains, smart contracts, Decentralized Identity, Verifiable Credentials, and off-chain storage to support privacy and system performance. However, scalability, interoperability, regulatory compliance, privacy, implementation costs, and technical expertise remain significant barriers. These findings highlight blockchain’s potential to support sustainable digital transformation and enhance the reliability, efficiency, and trustworthiness of academic credential verification in higher education.