Guidance for Evaluating Foreign Educational Credentials and Transcripts

Evaluating foreign educational credentials and transcripts is a crucial step for immigrants and new Americans to ensure that their educational achievements are recognized in the United States. This process involves assessing the equivalency of foreign qualifications to U.S. standards. This page provides a step-by-step guide on how to get foreign educational credentials evaluated for equivalence in the US. Some employers and Academic institutions require the evaluated transcripts from immigrants or internationals who attained a senior high school or higher level of education outside the US. Before applying, read thoroughly about the types of evaluation, processes, utilization , and corresponding fees of the following list of recognized credential evaluation services: World Education Services (WES), Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE), National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES), and International Education Research Foundation (IERF).

Application Processes

1. Document Preparation

   • Transcripts and Diplomas: Gather official transcripts and diplomas from your educational institutions. These documents may need to be translated into English if they are in another language.
   • Certified Translations: Use a certified translator to ensure that your documents are accurately translated. Some evaluation services offer translation services as well.

2. Submission Guidelines

   • Selecting a Service: Choose a credential evaluation service that is recognized by the institution or employer to which you are applying.
   • Online Application: Most evaluation services offer an online application process. Complete the application form and upload the necessary documents.
   • Fees and Payment: Be prepared to pay evaluation fees, which vary by service and type of evaluation. Check the specific service’s website for detailed fee structures.
   • Processing Time: Processing times can vary from a few days to several weeks. Plan ahead to ensure that your evaluation is completed in time for application deadlines.
   • Types of Evaluations: There are different types of evaluations, including document-by-document, course-by-course, and professional evaluations. Choose the type based on your specific needs.

Utilizing Evaluated Credentials

1. Educational Admission: Submit the evaluation report along with your application to U.S. educational institutions. Ensure that the report meets the institution's requirements.
2. Employment: Provide the evaluation report to potential employers as proof of your educational qualifications. This can significantly enhance your job prospects.
3. Professional Licensure: For professions that require licensure, submit the evaluation report to the relevant licensing board. Ensure that the evaluation service used is accepted by the board.

List of recognized credential evaluation services

World Education Services (WES)

• World Education Services (WES) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping international students and professionals achieve their educational and professional goals in the United States and Canada. WES provides credential evaluations that are widely recognized by academic institutions, licensing boards, and employers. The organization utilizes a robust and rigorous methodology to ensure accurate and fair evaluations of academic credentials from around the world.

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Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE)

• Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) is a nonprofit organization that has been providing credential evaluation services since 1980. ECE aims to help immigrants and international students achieve their educational and professional aspirations by delivering accurate and credible evaluations of foreign educational achievements.

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National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES)

• National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) is an association of independent, nongovernmental organizations that provide credential evaluation services. Founded in 1987, NACES sets high standards for its member organizations to ensure the quality and reliability of their evaluations.

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International Education Research Foundation (IERF)

• International Education Research Foundation (IERF) is another reputable credential evaluation service that has been providing evaluations since 1969. IERF specializes in evaluating international educational credentials for academic and professional purposes.

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