To ensure that the credential evaluation process is as easy to understand as possible, we’ve compiled a variety of WES tools and resources designed to help you at every stage of the process. Read below to learn more.
1. Try the WES iGPA Calculator and Degree Equivalency Tool
Before you begin your credential evaluation, we recommend trying our two free tools: the WES iGPA Calculator and Degree Equivalency Tool. These tools provide a preview of your grade point average and degree equivalency in the United States or Canada.
While these tools do not replace an official evaluation, the results can help you understand how your qualifications will be viewed by academic programs or employers in the U.S. or Canada. If the results are not what you expected, you may need to gather more information or reconsider your job or academic plans in the U.S. or Canada.
2. Read the WES Blog
The WES blog offers stories from newcomers, policy updates and analysis, applicant experiences, and advice that support immigrants, refugees, and international students. The Credential Advice section of the blog is updated regularly and offers in-depth tutorials and guidance to support you as you apply for a credential evaluation. Use this free resource and stay updated by subscribing to the WES Advisor monthly newsletter.
3. Find Your Report Type
If you’re not sure which type of evaluation report you need, visit our Evaluations & Fees page for guidance. If possible, contact your report recipient (for example, the hiring manager or admissions officer) and ask which type of credential evaluation report they require.
There are two types of credential evaluation reports: Document-by-Document (DxD) and Course-by-Course (CxC). Here is a breakdown of each:
- DxD: A standard DxD report identifies and describes each of your credentials—such as a degree or diploma—that you submit to WES. It also provides the name of the equivalent credential in terms of U.S. or Canadian education. A DxD is appropriate for immigration and employment purposes and for entering a college or university program as a first-year student. View a sample report.
- CxC: Like the DxD, a CxC evaluation indicates the U.S. or Canadian equivalency for each credential you have earned. However, this evaluation also includes a detailed analysis of each course listed on your transcript. In addition to the equivalent credential, the CxC converts your semester credits and grades and calculates a GPA on a 4.0 scale. A CxC evaluation is most appropriate for meeting the requirements of licensing boards and higher education graduate programs. View a sample report.
In addition to our standard credential evaluations, WES also offers an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for IRCC and a Global Records Verification Report for the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).
4. Preview Your Required Documents
When you apply for a credential evaluation, you and your institution will need to provide required documents as supporting documentation. The required documents will vary, depending on your report type, the country where you were educated, level of study, and institution. To preview what we will need for your credential evaluation, use our Required Documents tool.
Once you submit your application, you will be able to log in to My Account and see your list of required documents anytime.
5. Calculate Your Costs
A credential evaluation is an investment in your future education and career. But, before you apply, visit this page for pricing information and to estimate the cost of your evaluation report. Keep in mind that costs can vary depending on the type of report, delivery method, and number of recipients. Estimating your costs ahead of time will help you prepare for the expenses involved.
6. Facilitate Electronic Document Submission
Once you submit your application for a credential evaluation, your institution must submit additional documents to WES. We highly recommend submitting documents electronically. Ask your institution if it already has the option of electronically transmitting documents to WES. If it doesn’t currently have such an arrangement, we may still be able to accept documents from the institution electronically. You can ask institution that it complete our Digital Partnership Form and return the form to WES, and someone from our team will respond to the request.
Read this blog post for more information about sending documents to WES electronically.
7. Utilize the Help Center and Customer Support
The Help Center is a great resource before and after you apply for a credential evaluation. It provides answers to frequently asked questions and can direct you to the appropriate support. If you can’t find the answer to your question, our customer support team is available to provide additional assistance.
Conclusion
A WES report can support your goals of living, working, or studying abroad. We hope this guide is useful as you conduct research and make plans for the future. As you proceed, make sure to save and refer to these resources. They will help you prepare for the evaluation process and support you through it.
Ready to get started? Begin your application today!
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What You Need to Know: Answers to Questions About WES Credential Evaluation Reports
