Credential Evaluation: Why is it necessary?
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Credential Evaluation: Why is it necessary?

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Aishwarya
Aishwarya Bhatnagar
Study Abroad Expert
Updated on Mar 6, 2025 17:54 IST

The elementary foundation stone of one’s career in Education. The amount of time and energy one invests in education is crucial to his/her future success. If these educational degrees do not get recognised justifiably by foreign universities, then all the hard work might seem a waste. Therefore, it is vital to get your degrees/diplomas evaluated by expert organisations before applying to foreign universities. Let us discuss everything about credential evaluation and why it is necessary.

credential evaluation and its necessity

Procuring a credential-evaluated degree is the first step for an international student before applying to universities abroad and also for skilled workers aspiring to work abroad/ gain employment. In short, credential evaluation helps you to achieve recognition for your academics. Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE), World Education Services (WES), and Educational Perspectives (EP) are three of the famous agencies that provide this kind of service. Before we get to know about ECE, WES and EP, let’s understand the concept and requirements of a Credential Evaluation.

Table of content
  • What is Credential Evaluation?
  • Why is Credential Evaluation Necessary?
  • Types of Evaluations Offered by Credential Evaluators
  • Credential Evaluation from ECE, WES and EP
  • Credential Evaluation FAQs

What is Credential Evaluation?

In simple terms, credential evaluation meaning is the valuation of your degree/ diploma through expert analysis. It basically analyses your national education degree to provide an American or Canadian equivalent, i.e. it converts your academic credentials to fall in line with the academic credential system in that of the USA or Canada. It is done mainly for countries such as Canada and the USA as they do not have a national education ministry to evaluate foreign degrees. Hence, universities, employers, etc expect an evaluated degree from independent credential auditors. While some US universities evaluate degrees on their terms, most of the time, the university will ask for an evaluated degree. Even if you are called upon for a job in these countries, you need to submit an evaluated degree during the documentation process. As it is a crucial process, only an expert with an all-around knowledge of international education systems can perform a full credential evaluation.

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Why is Credential Evaluation Necessary?

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The necessity of a credential evaluation arises from the fact that the education system of each of the countries in the world is distinct from each other. Thus, accurate and precise validation of a candidate’s marks/percentage and degree can be rightly calculated only through a proper evaluation. This is where organisations like WES and EP step in. They can analyse and compare the degree given by a certain university to that of the U.S. or Canadian education system so that your hard work is duly recognized, along with prior education and experience. To throw more light, here is why credential evaluation is necessary:

  • Credential evaluation recognises foreign education because education systems vary globally. 
  • International applicants can understand where they stand through credential evaluation based on the country they are applying to, especially in the USA and Canada.
  • Credential evaluation is also essential for admission committees and immigration professionals to get student or skilled worker visas.
  • Credential evaluation is also necessary because it helps institutions authenticate the actual performance of international applicants based on their grading systems. 
  • Finally, credential evaluation is an assessment of credentials through document submission. Thus, this way, fraud documentation submissions can be avoided. 

Thus, these are the broad reasons why credential evaluation is necessary and how it aids smoother transitions from one country's education system to another. 

Types of Evaluations Offered by Credential Evaluators







There are three types of evaluations offered by credential evaluators and they are as follows:

Type of Evaluation Purpose
Required Documents
Course by Course Credential Evaluation College admissions, transfer credits, advanced degrees, professional licensing
Original or certified copies of school transcripts showing subjects, grades, and credit hours.
Educational Credential Evaluation (document by document) Employment, immigration, university admission (no transfer credit)
Original or certified copies of diplomas, certificates, and transcripts with English translations.
Professional Work Experience Evaluation Immigration (H-1B visa)
Certified copies of academic documents, detailed resumes, reference letters, and English translations.

These are ideally the broad types of reports that credential evaluators give. They may vary in costs or offerings based on each credential evaluator.

Credential Evaluation from ECE, WES and EP

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Let us discuss about the three agencies and see how they work:

Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE)

Formed in 1980, ECE is a non-profit organisation that has helped more than 600,000 internationally educated people, including almost 40,000 from India over the past 10 years, receive recognition for their educational achievements. The ECE Reports are valid for five years. Colleges, universities, employers, and governments trust this organisation to evaluate international education as part of their admission or hiring process.

ECE generates reports that are:

  • Completed fast with an average turnaround of five business days
  • Developed with the highest level of quality and integrity
  • Offered at a competitive, often the lowest, cost
  • Easy to order online
  • Supported by excellent customer service that has earned ECE a 95% customer satisfaction rating

ECE Evaluation Cost

ECE evaluation cost based on each report is as follows:

Type of ECE Report ECE Evaluation Cost
General ECE Report USD 100
General ECE Report with GPA USD 130
Course by Course ECE Report USD 195
High School and University Level Course by Course ECE Report USD 235
Subject Analysis ECE Report USD 275

ECE received an A from the Better Business Bureau and the BBB Torch Award for Ethics in 2018. Besides, it was a founding member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES) in 1987.

Read: How does ECE help in the evaluation of your documents?

What is WES evaluation?

WES offers credential evaluation services since its origin in 1974. The evaluation process starts with the candidate sending all the required documents to the organisation. Next, a credential evaluator is assigned to verify and authenticate the documents sent by the candidate. Once it is done, the credentials are assessed based on the following points:

  • The education system of your country
  • The reputation of the educational institution you attended
  • The curriculum and content of your programme
  • Any other requirements you had to fulfil while getting admission to the university/college

WES Evaluation Cost

The cost of WES credential evaluation per report, based on each level is as follows:

WES Evaluation Types Fees
Freshmen Admissions
Document by Document Evaluation USD 160
Course by Course Evaluation USD 111
Graduate Admissions
Document by Document Evaluation USD 176
Course by Course Evaluation USD 225

Post this, the obtained data is then calculated according to the American or Canadian standard depending upon the university/ country you will be going to. This includes the grades obtained, credit hours, and courses converted to their American or Canadian equivalent points. After the first evaluation report is generated, it is sent for a review to check its accuracy and then, sent for approval to a senior credential evaluator. The whole process takes about 7-8 business days right after the verification of the candidate’s documents.

Know more about How WES converts Grades to GPA? and the WES report on How Master's Students Choose Institutions

Educational Perspectives (EP)

EP is a non-profit international education research organisation dedicated to assisting candidates in evaluating their educational degrees to be accepted internationally. They boast of highly experienced evaluators who are actively involved in international education. Being members of the National Association of Graduate Admission Professionals (NAGAP), American Association of Collegiate Registrars (AACRAO), and the European Association for International Education (EAIE), the evaluator is up-to-date with any change in the evaluation process.

Since 2003, EP itself has been a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). It is also one of the Groningen Declaration's signatories that attempts to find a common platform for individuals seeking academic and professional help for international mobility worldwide. The declaration ensures that interested parties and stakeholders unite to serve such candidates. Known for their quick response, EP usually takes five business days to complete a credential evaluation.

Q:   Does the University of Essex require IELTS?
A:

International students whose native language is not English must meet the University of Essex English language requirements to get admission. The university accepts IELTS scores as proof of English language proficiency. Mentioned below are the IELTS scores required for UG and PG admission at the university:

English Language Test

 Score

IELTS

Overall score of 5.5 to 8.0 with minimum of 5.5 to 7.5 in each section

The university also accepts the score of other English language tests such as TOEFL and PTE for admission to undergraduate and graduate programs:

English Language Test

 Score

TOEFL iBT

Overall score of 72 to 114

PTE

Overall score of 59 to 84 with minimum of 59 to 80 in each section

Also read: Required IELTS Score for UK Universities

Q:   Is the degree awarded in Dubai campus same as the one awarded in Heriot Watt UK campus?
A:

Yes, all the graduates receive a British degree irrespective of the campus locations. Programs follow similar patterns and examinations on all campuses. The degree awarded is even recognised by the reputed institutions and also approved by Royal Charter in UK.

Q:   What is the acceptance rate of Hertfordshire University?
A:

The University of Hertfordshire has a 70% acceptance rate, making it easy to get into and having simple admissions requirements. Academic achievement, English language proficiency, references, and many other factors are taken into consideration while making the selection. At Hertfordshire, some programs may require four to five years of experience. To enroll in any programme at Hertfordshire University, students must meet the qualifying requirements. In addition, students with average performance can showcase their relevant experience or extracurricular activities participation to increase their selection probability.

Q:   Why should I choose to study at the Newcastle University UK?
A:

England Newcastle University is one of the top choices among international students due to the university's world-class programs, an impressive return on investment, vibrant campus life, and more. As per the reviews posted by students on Shiksha, the university has obtained the following stars:

ParametersStars (Shiksha Reviews)
Overall3.7
Public Transportation4.5
Safety4.4
Quality of Faculty4.4
Student Life4.1
Value for Money3.6
Indian Food3.4
Permanent Immigration3.4
Post-study Jobs3.4
Part-time Work3.3
Internships3.0
Q:   How long does Hertfordshire University take to reply?
A:

After applying to Hertfordshire University UK, the applicants are going to receive an initial decision about their application within 2-3 working days. After the submission of the application and documents, the applicants are required to pay their tuition deposit. Then, complete the Sponsorship interview and the financial declaration. International students are required to pay a deposit of £5,000 before registration. The balance can be paid in line with the liability dates related to the year and entry of the semester.

Q:   How good is Coventry University (UK)?
A:

Coventry University is one of the renowned universities popular for its rankings, academic structure, facilities, research opportunities, and location. The university offers over 130 UG and 100 PG programs across four faculties. Coventry University also ranked no. 1 for student-staff ratio in midlands as per 'The Complete University Guide 2025' and rated gold for student experience as per the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF 2023).

Q:   How much is Johnson & Wales University application fee for international students?
A:

Johnson and Wales University application fees for international students is zero. Johnson and Wales University does not charge any fees for applying to either undergraduate or to graduate programs. International students can apply throught the official application portal of Johnson and Wales University. 

Q:   Is TOEFL accepted in the UK, Canada, or Australia?
A:

Yes, the TOEFL iBT is accepted by 100% of universities in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as by most major institutions in Canada and Europe. Over 13,000 universities and colleges in 160+ countries accept TOEFL scores. 

While now you must be clear about why students require a Credential Evaluation, there must be a lot of questions arising in your mind regarding it. Here are a few FAQs to clear your doubts:

If you have any questions, please drop us a comment below, and we'll be happy to resolve your queries!

Credential Evaluation FAQs

Q. What are the different kinds of Evaluation Reports?

A. Commonly, a candidate request for a ‘basic’ credential evaluation that generally is an overall evaluation of the degree. A ‘detailed’ evaluation (course-by-course) report is the one that entails detailed information about the candidate’s grades, credits, course content, etc. This is only mandatory in cases where the applicant is applying for transfer credit or a graduate degree. An ordinary report will include evaluation of the degree as well as all other details obtained in accordance with the foreign country’s education system. The university from where the candidate has completed his education will be judged on the basis of recognition of the university, credential name, entrance/ admission requirements, programme duration, the field of major/ specialisation, date of graduation/ completion of the course, and so on. An addition of analysis of each course on the transcript will cost you extra. They will be converted into credit hours or grades as per their U.S or Canadian equivalent. Some institutes also calculate the GPA (Grade Point Average), a standardised system majorly followed by the USA. For a freshman,  Document-by-Document evaluation is recommended whereas, for transfer and graduate applicants a  Course-by-Course evaluation is more suitable.

Q. How much does a Credential Evaluation cost?

A. As explained above, there are different kinds of detailed evaluations required according to the course or university requirements. Thus, according to each of these detailed evaluations, expenses will also differ. The cost will depend on factors like the depth of analysis required, number of courses, processing time, charges by the agency, and so on. In general, a ‘basic’ evaluation report will cost you anywhere between USD $70 to $150, on the other hand, a detailed report will be ranging from $150 to $350. Further, the total fee would also depend on your need whether it is for academic, employment, visa, etc. In WES’s website, you will find a separate option for each of these categories, which further have divisions depending on the level of education, employment, etc. For a better understanding, you can visit their site and choose according to your own requirement. A detailed analysis of documents required and a fee breakup will be presented.

Q. Is Credential Evaluation universally recognized?

A. The simple answer is ‘No’. The evaluation does not apply to all foreign universities as it depends on certain factors. Firstly, credential evaluation differs from country to country, hence it is important to mention the country to you apply to/ going to before sending your documents for evaluation to the agency. Secondly, not all foreign universities require credential evaluation as some countries’ education system have their own evaluation system. In some cases, universities themselves evaluate your degree. Thirdly, there are also certain universities/ countries that recognize the Indian education system as it is. There are a number of agencies offering the services of credential evaluation. Thus, it is advised to do some research by before selecting any one agency as some universities might not recognise evaluation from some agencies.

Q. What to do if my university is not listed in WES?

A. Students must ensure that they check the universities listed by WES before submitting a request for score report and the requisite fee. In case the applicant applies for a WES evaluation and his/her university doesn't accept this evaluation, one the university will not accept and two it will be a sheer waste of money and time. Hence, students must make sure that their university accepts WES evaluation before making any official requests. Also check out the list of WES approved universities to be on a safe side. 

Q. How much does NACES evaluation cost in India?

A. The following is the course by course credit and GPA conversion rate for evaluation by NACES, cost for Indian students are also given below:
NACES Evaluation Type NACES Evaluation Cost in USD NACES Evaluation Cost in India in Rupees
Standard (3 day) $165 INR 13,669.67
Rush (3 day) $215 INR 17,811.78
Special (1 day) $265 INR 21,954.06
Same day $365 INR 30,238.61
The rates are subject to change, check carefully before applying.
About the Author
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Written by
Aishwarya Bhatnagar
Study Abroad Expert

Aishwarya is a professional Writer currently working as a Study Abroad Expert in the Editorial Team at Shiksha. She has over 5 years of experience and is skilled at creating Online Content with leveraged knowledge i... Read Full Bio

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Comments

(6)

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Avihhan kumar

3 years ago

i had applied for florida state university for undergrad(freshman). They have asked for secondary school evaluation. what shall i have to do. Do i need my 12th mark sheet/ certificate to be evaluated from WES. shall it be document to document or course by course.

Reply to Avihhan kumar

Course by course is preferred by most universities. Kindly confirm with the university by contacting them.

Hi, I am applying to a Canadian college for a Diploma course, and it requires high school transcripts. Do I need to get a transcript from 9 to 12, or my 10th and 12th mark sheet alone is sufficient?

Reply to Sheetal Dhasmana

Check the college requirements on its website. Usually, 9-12 transcripts are required.

If anybody done MSc cosmetology and health care .Is she eligible for dermatology Diploma or not?

Reply to jasspinder preet

Please check the university requirements for this. Each university has different requirements and even each country will have different entry criteria for such subjects.

N

Nidhin Suresh

4 years ago

It about CANADA?? If you want to study pg diploma in mechanical engineer field in a college (not in a university), do you still need to get credential assesment on the previous education you had? Credential assesment is only needed to join in universities and not needed in institutional colleges?

Reply to Nidhin Suresh

Colleges or universities, both require evaluation. Some institutions do self-evaluations as well. Thus, it will be better to check the respective university/college's website before sending your transcripts for evaluation.

K

Kiyan

4 years ago

Do Swiss institutes like ETH Zurich and EPFL require an evaluation?

Reply to Kiyan

This can be found on their respective websites. Usually, US and Canadian universities require evaluation.