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Understanding Your WES Credential Evaluation Report

WES Staff | January 20, 2026

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Have you received your credential evaluation? If so, that means you have taken the first step toward having your international qualifications recognized in the United States or Canada.  

Why Your WES Report Matters 

Your WES report is more powerful—as well as a gateway to new opportunities. A credential evaluation report can help you: 

  • Meet admission requirements for college or university 
  • Transfer academic credits
  • Obtain professional licensing
  • Secure employment 
  • Pursue immigration pathways

Key Features of the Evaluation Report 

WES credential evaluations weigh all relevant factors and determine an equivalency which compare your credentials to educational standards in the U.S. or Canada. The evaluation report expresses the opinion and policy of WES and is based on extensive research, knowledge, and expertise. Here is what you can expect from your report: 

  • Equivalency Statement: Provides the U.S. or Canadian equivalent of your degree or diploma, using standard educational terminology. 
  • Course-by-Course Analysis: A Course-by-Course evaluation lists all the post-secondary subjects you completed, along with U.S. or Canadian semester credit and grade equivalents. 
  • Grade Point Average (GPA): Calculated on a 4.0 scale, the GPA on WES reports takes into account differences between education systems.

Again, it is important to understand that a WES report is advisory in nature and is not binding upon any agency or institution. Any decision regarding eligibility or admission remains with the academic institution, professional licensing body, employer, or government agency reviewing your report.  

Educational Terms You Should Know 

Understanding the terminology used in your report is essential. Here are the key terms you might see on your evaluation: 

  • Bachelor’s Degree: First university degree after undergraduate study 
  • Diploma: Awarded after a two- or three-year post-secondary program 
  • Master’s Degree: Post-baccalaureate degree requiring coursework and often a thesis 
  • Doctoral Degree: Highest academic degree based on research and dissertation 
  • First Professional Degree: Specialized degrees like MD or DDS, which may require additional professional licensing 
  • Lower- and Upper-Division Courses: Introductory versus advanced undergraduate courses 
  • Semester Credit: A measure of course workload 

Beyond the Evaluation: Tools for Success 

Your journey with WES doesn’t end when you receive your credential evaluation report. Whether you need to order additional copies of your report in the future or you are seeking tools and resources to navigate your education or career, we are here and ready to support you on the path to reaching your goals.  

If you have further questions about your report or WES, please contact us for assistance 

WES Staff
WES is a non-profit social enterprise that supports the educational, economic, and social inclusion of immigrants, refugees, and international students in the U.S. and Canada.

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