If you completed your education outside of the United States or Canada, obtaining a credential evaluation report is a key step toward having your academic qualifications recognized in both countries. Whether you’re pursuing further education, professional licensing, or immigration opportunities, choosing the right credential evaluation service will set you up for success.
There are several credential evaluation service providers, and it is important to conduct research and select a provider that matches your needs and goals. Continue reading for some tips and considerations for choosing your credential evaluation partner.
Research Trusted and Established Organizations
We always recommend checking with the institution you are planning to send your report to see if it prefers or requires a specific credential evaluation provider. However, if you are obtaining an evaluation early and do not know where you will use your report yet, then we recommend starting your research with the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) in the U.S. or the Alliance of Credential Evaluation Services of Canada (ACESC).
Members of these organizations are established and adhere to high professional standards. It’s important to choose a reputable provider to ensure that your report will be trusted and accepted as you pursue future positions and opportunities in the U.S. or Canada.
WES is a member of NACES and ACESC, and its reports are accepted by more than 5,000 institutions in the U.S. and Canada.
Understand the Type of Report You Need
There are different types of evaluation reports, so it is important to know what your goal is. When you are researching evaluation providers, you will need to find out what types of reports they offer and if these options will suit your goal. If you are planning to send your evaluation report to a specific institution or organization, contact them first to see if they require a certain type of report.
WES offers two types of credential evaluation reports: Document-by-Document and Course-by-Course. Our reports never expire, offering you lifetime value. Learn which report type is best suited for you.
To support immigration pathways, WES also provides Educational Credential Assessments (ECAs) for IRCC and the Global Records Verification Report for New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).
Explore Providers that Offer Digital Options and Partnerships
In an increasingly globalized and connected world, it’s important to choose a provider that leverages technology to make obtaining an evaluation more efficient and secure. The WES process begins with creating an online account where you can easily submit and track your application, reference a list of required documents tailored to your evaluation, and conveniently contact our customer support team.
To enhance the evaluation process, WES has also established digital partnerships with thousands of institutions around the world. A digital partnership is an arrangement between WES and an academic institution which allows the institution to submit official academic documents to WES via an approved electronic channel. Learn more in this popular blog post.
Additionally, institutions such as universities, licensing boards, government entities, and employers have the option of using AccessWES, our online report delivery system. The platform allows institutions to receive their candidate’s WES evaluation as soon as the report is complete, enabling them to make admission or hiring decisions more efficiently.
With a digital-first approach, WES is committed to ensuring a secure process for applicants and institutions. You can count on a WES credential evaluation to help you continue your educational or professional endeavors with confidence.
Compare Associated Costs and Fees
Cost is a major factor for many people considering a credential evaluation. Take the time to compare various providers and understand what is included in the total cost. Consider fees such as delivery options, transaction fees, and the number of copies you will need to order (including recipients you might be sending the report to).
Also take into account any additional features, products, or services you might want to have access to. For example, WES offers the International Credential Advantage Package (ICAP) which can be added to an order for a Document-by-Document or Course-by-Course report. With ICAP, WES will store your verified transcripts and send them to your institution along with your completed evaluation report.
For more details, visit our Evaluation and Fees page to learn more about our pricing and services.
Takeaways for Choosing Your Credential Evaluation Partner
Obtaining a credential evaluation can be overwhelming, but it can be a smooth process with proper research and early planning. It all begins with a defined goal. Then research trusted and established providers, and consider the types of reports each provider offers, total costs, and digital options for the most secure credential evaluation transmission.
WES is here and committed to supporting you every step of the way—from research to receiving your completed report. Be sure to check out our blog, newsletters, tools, and FAQs for additional insights about the credential evaluation process.
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Top 5 Reasons to Get a Credential Evaluation
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