I wanted to name this topic as Education vs. Experience, but this topic already exists. I've read that discussion and though what I'd like to ask is related with that topic, the question is quite different.I've started learning programming about 12 years ago. For the last 4 years I'm working as developer in software outsourcing (located in Russia). I'm thinking about leaving Russia and moving somewhere else like Australia (doesn't matter basically). I have a number of examples illustrating the general ability and success stories, but still there's a difference between all these people and my case.I have quite a good technical experience - primary areas are C++ and .NET. I have already participated in 7 projects based on different technologies/platforms (Windows, Linux, Android, Qt, .NET, etc). So, I believe, I'm capable of working as a software developer. Let's just take it - from technical standpoint, this guy is absolutely OK.The only problem is, I don't have any education. So, here's the question:In most cases, may I read words like BS in CS, equivalent, or better as N years of experience?Update:Is there a sense in getting certificates like MCSD (for .NET)? I know there's a separate topic for this question, but still asking for the case when there's no education but there are certificates and experience.
Work experience instead of education?
education;experience;skills
Loki, I myself don't have any kind of degree, but I don't think that you can generally substitute BS in CS with N years of experience. I have applied for jobs that required a degree in the past and I have been hired (and I am talking about companies which are known to have rather strict policies). If you think you can compete with people who have a degree, don't hold back. Apply for a job that sounds good to you, regardless of the requirements on the ad.As from now, I second @Andrew McGregor:How much a degree is valued depends on the employer. I've heard stories of people who got neglected because they didn't have the best possible grade on their degree. I think the industry also matters a lot. Some jobs are quite hard compared to standard crud enterprise software/forms over data stuff, you'll need solid maths and algorithm skills to work on them and thus people with degree are preferred.