You’ve worked hard for your education and professional experience, and they are incredibly valuable. But when you move to a new country, how do you make sure employers and universities recognize that value? Your accomplishments need to be translated. This is where a credential evaluation comes in. It’s an official report that compares your background to U.S. standards, creating a clear and trusted comparison. This document acts as a bridge, ensuring your qualifications are understood and helping you take the next step in your career or education.
A credential evaluation can help someone with educational or professional qualifications from one country find opportunities in a new country—through the recognition, validation, and measurement of their achievements. In this post, we will go through each of the reasons why you may need a credential evaluation.
Understanding Credential Evaluations
Before you can get your credentials evaluated, it helps to understand who does the evaluating and what makes them qualified. The process is built on a foundation of trust, and the most reputable evaluation services are members of professional organizations that uphold strict standards. This membership is a signal to universities, employers, and government agencies that the evaluation report they receive is accurate, reliable, and thoroughly researched. It’s your first and most important quality check when choosing a provider.
Knowing the landscape of evaluation providers will help you make a more informed choice. Some are large, long-standing non-profits, while others are more modern, for-profit companies that may focus on different aspects of the customer experience, like speed or specialized support. Neither is inherently better, but one might be a better fit for your specific needs, timeline, and budget. Taking a moment to understand these differences can set you up for a smoother process from start to finish.
The Importance of NACES Accreditation
When you start looking for an evaluation service, you’ll see the acronym NACES mentioned frequently. NACES stands for the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services, a U.S.-based group of independent organizations that evaluate foreign education. Think of NACES as the gold standard for credential evaluations. Its members are held to rigorous standards, ensuring that every evaluation is consistent, impartial, and of the highest quality. This accreditation is why so many institutions specifically require a report from a NACES member.
Why Choose a NACES Member?
Choosing a NACES member is the simplest way to ensure your evaluation will be widely accepted. When a university admissions office or a state licensing board sees the NACES stamp, they know the report is legitimate and can be trusted. This saves you the potential headache and cost of having to get a second evaluation because the first one wasn’t from an approved provider. At IEE, we are a proud member of NACES, which means our evaluations meet the high standards required for higher education, employment, and immigration purposes across the United States.
Provider Structures: Non-Profit and For-Profit
Within NACES, you’ll find both non-profit and for-profit organizations. Non-profits, like ECE, have been foundational to the industry for decades and often have deep relationships with academic institutions. Their mission is typically centered on promoting global education and understanding. For-profit providers, on the other hand, may operate more like modern service companies, often focusing on efficiency, customer support, and fast turnaround times. This structure allows them to invest in technology and processes that can significantly speed up the evaluation, which is a huge benefit when you’re facing a tight deadline.
Breaking Down the Costs
Let’s talk about one of the most important factors in your decision: the cost. The price of a credential evaluation can vary quite a bit from one service to another, and it’s not always easy to compare them at a glance. The final cost depends on the type of report you need, how quickly you need it, and whether you require any additional services like translation or extra copies. It’s a good idea to map out exactly what you need before you start comparing prices so you can get an accurate picture of the total investment required.
Most reputable providers offer a clear breakdown of their fees on their website. Look for a pricing page that lists the cost for each type of report and any optional add-ons. This transparency is a good sign that the company is straightforward and customer-focused. Be wary of any service that isn’t upfront about its costs, as hidden fees can quickly add up. Planning your budget ahead of time will help you avoid any surprises and choose a service that fits your financial situation without compromising on quality.
Pricing for Different Report Types
The primary factor determining the cost of your evaluation is the level of detail required in the report. A General or Document-by-Document report, which identifies your credentials and their U.S. equivalent, is the most basic and affordable option. However, many institutions require a Course-by-Course report, which provides a more detailed breakdown of your coursework, grades, and credits. As you might expect, this more comprehensive analysis comes at a higher price. It’s crucial to confirm which type of report your institution needs before you check the pricing to ensure you pay for the right service.
Fees for Additional Services
Beyond the evaluation itself, you may need other services that come with their own fees. The most common are translation and verification. If your academic documents, like transcripts or diplomas, are not in English, you will need to have them translated by a professional service. Some evaluation agencies offer this in-house, which can streamline the process. Additionally, some reports require direct verification with your former institution, which can also carry a separate charge. Always factor these potential costs into your budget from the beginning.
Translation and Verification Costs
Translation is a critical step for many applicants. At IEE, for example, we offer a translation service for an additional fee per page to ensure your documents are accurately converted to English. This is a separate cost from the evaluation itself. Similarly, verification services, where the agency contacts your school to confirm the authenticity of your documents, can add to the total. Understanding these component costs helps you build a realistic budget and avoid unexpected expenses during the application process.
Expedited and Rush Service Fees
Application deadlines can sneak up on you, and sometimes you just need your evaluation report done fast. Most credential evaluation services understand this and offer expedited or rush options for an additional fee. These services prioritize your application, cutting the standard processing time from several weeks down to just a few days. For example, some services offer a three-day rush option for around $50. If you’re in a time crunch, paying for a faster turnaround can be a worthwhile investment to ensure your application is submitted on time.
How to Choose the Right Evaluation Service
With so many NACES members to choose from, how do you find the one that’s right for you? The best service for someone else might not be the best for your unique situation. Your decision should be based on a few key factors: the processing time you need, the provider’s reputation and customer support, and the tools they offer to make the process easier. Taking the time to research these aspects will help you select a partner who can deliver an accurate report on your timeline and support you along the way.
Start by making a list of your priorities. Is your biggest concern meeting a fast-approaching deadline for a university application? Or are you more focused on finding a service that has specific experience with credentials from your home country for a professional license? Perhaps you need a provider with a highly responsive customer service team to answer your questions. Knowing what matters most to you will help you filter your options and focus on the services that are the best match for your academic or professional goals.
Comparing Processing Times and Flexibility
Processing time is often the most critical factor for applicants. Standard turnaround times can vary dramatically between providers, with some taking 30-35 days and others taking several months to issue a report. If you have a deadline, this is the first thing you should check. Some companies, like IEE, have built their process around speed, offering a standard 3-day turnaround on many types of reports. This can be a game-changer for meeting employment or academic application deadlines without paying extra rush fees.
Checking for Experience and Customer Satisfaction
An evaluation service’s reputation is built on its experience and the satisfaction of its customers. Look for a provider that has been in the business for a while and has a solid track record. Reading reviews and testimonials can give you a real-world sense of what it’s like to work with them. Are customers happy with the speed and quality of the service? Is the customer support team helpful and responsive? Positive feedback is a strong indicator that you’re choosing a reliable and trustworthy partner for your evaluation.
Looking for Helpful Tools and Features
A good evaluation service does more than just produce a report; it makes the entire process as simple and transparent as possible. Look for features that help you manage your application with ease. This could include a user-friendly online portal, clear instructions on what documents are needed, and the ability to track the status of your evaluation. For instance, a detailed document requirements page can save you a lot of time and prevent delays caused by submitting the wrong paperwork. These resources show that a company is invested in your success.
The Application Process Explained
Once you’ve chosen an evaluation service, it’s time to start the application. While each provider’s process is slightly different, they generally follow the same core steps. The key to a smooth experience is preparation. Gathering all your necessary documents and information before you begin will make filling out the application much faster and easier. Think of it as setting up all your ingredients before you start cooking—it ensures everything goes according to plan without any last-minute scrambling.
The process typically begins online, where you’ll create an account and provide information about your educational history and the purpose of your evaluation. From there, you’ll be guided on which documents to submit and how to send them. Accuracy is incredibly important during this stage, as any mistakes or missing information can cause significant delays. Double-checking every detail before you submit can save you weeks of waiting and ensure your report is processed as quickly as possible.
Key Steps to Apply
The application process can be broken down into a few straightforward steps. First, you’ll create an account on the provider’s website and complete their online application form. During this step, you will select the type of report you need and its purpose, such as for immigration or education. Once you submit the form and payment, you’ll receive a reference number for your file. The final step is to send your required academic documents to the agency, following their specific instructions for submission, whether digital or by mail.
A Crucial Tip: Check Requirements First
Before you spend any time or money on an application, there is one crucial step you must take: confirm the specific evaluation requirements with the institution, board, or agency that will receive your report. A university may require a Course-by-Course evaluation, while an employer might only need a Document-by-Document report. Ordering the wrong type of report is a common and costly mistake. A quick email or phone call to the receiving institution to verify their requirements is the single most important thing you can do to ensure your evaluation is accepted without issue.
Education Credential Evaluations
This is the most common purpose for a credential evaluation. Colleges and universities want to make sure that their international candidates meet the school’s requirements for admission. A credential evaluation can provide a Grade Point Average, converted credits, and a final equivalency, which admissions officers use to determine if an individual satisfies the school’s criteria. Additionally, an evaluation also shows a thesis or dissertation title, statements about what occupation the degree prepares holders for, and explanations about the documentation received.
In sum, a credential evaluation presents achievements from another country in a way that U.S. higher educational institutions can understand and apply. It also provides institutions with better context for the educational achievements of their international applicants, providing admissions officers with the information they need to make more informed decisions about who will get an offer of admission. Additionally, institutions may use the credential evaluation to award transfer credit or exemptions, so in addition to supporting an application, a credential evaluation can also save an applicant time and money during their degree program.
At IEE, the goal of a credential evaluation is twofold: help admissions officers with their deliberations, while also doing our best to advocate for our clients. Furthermore, at IEE, we use two methodologies for education evaluations: benchmarking and year-counting. We work closely with institutions to support our clients while following the approaches of institutions that we serve. For more information, please see our white paper about evaluation methodology.
Immigration and Foreign Credential Evaluations
In order to receive certain visas, such as an H1-B visa, there are often educational thresholds that one must meet. An individual can obtain and then present a credential evaluation to bolster their application for getting a U.S. visa and/or work permit. The credential evaluation will show the U.S. educational equivalent that immigration authorities, such as USCIS, utilize while considering an applicant’s eligibility for certain visas, which if approved, will allow the applicant to migrate to the U.S., and depending on the visa, work, or study.
Evaluations for Canada (ECA)
If you’re planning to move to Canada for work, school, or to seek permanent residency, you’ll likely need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA). An ECA is a report that verifies your foreign education—like a degree, diploma, or certificate—and compares it to Canadian standards. The Canadian government requires this assessment to make sure your credentials are valid and equivalent to those earned in Canada. This is a crucial step because it confirms that your education will be recognized, which can prevent you from having to repeat your studies. Ultimately, getting an ECA can open doors to employment, further education, and your goal of building a new life in Canada. Many credential evaluation services, including IEE, offer a Canadian assessment to help you meet these requirements.
Support for Refugees and Displaced Applicants
We understand that refugees and displaced individuals often face incredible challenges, including the inability to access official academic documents from their home country. If you find yourself in this situation, please know that help is available. Many credential evaluation services have established processes to assist applicants who have incomplete records due to adverse circumstances. The primary goal is to help bridge the gap so that your international education is properly understood and valued as you pursue your academic and professional goals. Because every situation is unique, the best first step is to reach out directly to an evaluation provider to discuss your circumstances. Our team is here to listen and guide you through the available options, so please don’t hesitate to contact us for support.
Professional Licensure and Education Requirements
Internationally trained individuals often want to continue their careers in a new country. However, some professions, such as teaching and nursing, are more regulated than others, and thus require a license from the local, state, or federal authority. Licensing boards usually require at minimum, a four-year degree in order to grant a license in a specific field. Therefore, a credential evaluation will make an application for licensure to practice in a chosen career significantly stronger, as it will clearly indicate that an applicant has met the educational requirements that are needed before being able to practice.
For professions, such as teaching, nursing, physical therapy, and others, we show a program’s duration, admission requirement, and major, as well as additional details that directly compare the degree program in an applicant’s home country to the equivalent program in the U.S.
Additionally, IEE’s course-by-course analysis for licensure shows grades and credits converted to the US system, and then groups the courses by categories, in order to highlight the different areas of expertise that were gained during an education. This clearly displays courses in a way that the recipient can easily see and find. For example, if an engineering licensing board wants to see the courses in Mathematics, they’ll simply look at the area labeled “Mathematics,” which will save them time and make it easier to understand an applicant’s background.
Employment Credential Evaluations
Employers in both the private and public sectors have certain standards and requirements for their employees. One of the most common is a four-year degree. A credential evaluation can show employers that the education received in an applicant’s home country is both rigorous in its subject matter, and equivalent to the expected requirements of candidates in the country of employment. In the event a recruiter or interviewer has questions about an applicant’s education and is unfamiliar with their country’s system, the credential evaluation will put their education into terms that their future employer is able to follow and trust.
Furthermore, a credential evaluation reveals knowledge and academic experience in different subjects. For example, if an applicant is applying for a position at a law firm and has an undergraduate degree in law from their home country, the course-by-course credential evaluation will show all of the courses taken, including torts, administrative law, ethics, and other courses common across law curricula. The evaluation also shows the US-equivalent grades and credits.
Credential evaluations are often required for public sector roles, such as for positions at public educational institutions or government agencies. So, whether you are interviewing at a bank and have a finance degree, or at an engineering firm and have a civil engineering degree, the credential evaluation will help to strengthen an application, as it validates your skills and expertise in a job interview.
Nursing Evaluations and Licensure Reports
With national shortages, nurses are in high demand now and into the foreseeable future. At the same time, there are licensed nurses from all over the world that are looking for work and can assist with this demand. However, due to individual states or province requirements, it can be cumbersome for internationally educated nurses to gain licensure to practice nursing. The credential evaluation can assist qualified nurses get their achievements and expertise recognized, by helping them to obtain licensure and work as nurses in hospitals, clinics, and medical practices.
Beyond standard information, such as admission requirements, duration and institution attended, the IEE nursing report includes a breakdown of clinical and theoretical hours taken; showing how much time was spent devoted to various areas of concentration in nursing such as Pediatric Nursing, to Community Nursing, to Medical/Surgical. Our credential evaluations are designed to assist nurses by getting them closer to licensure and employment. Additionally, IEE’s industry-leading processing time for evaluations can help with the market demand for nurses, while always ensuring compliance with the rigorous standards of medical providers and state nursing boards.
Credential Evaluation to Serve in the US Military
The United States Military has been accepting foreign-born individuals into its ranks since its inception. However, there is a rigorous selection process that candidates must navigate before official enlistment, which includes a screening of education. At minimum, enlistees are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent qualification. A credential evaluation makes it clear to military recruitment officers that all the educational requirements are met. Whether it is the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marines or Space Force, we at IEE respect our clients’ wishes to serve in the United States Military, and our credential evaluation vouches for them as they pursue this noble path.
As you can see, there are many reasons for a credential evaluation. Various sectors accept credential evaluations from individuals to get a more holistic and understandable view of candidates. For which purpose do you need an evaluation? When you’ve decided on your path, feel free to start your application with IEE!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which type of evaluation report to order? This is the most important question to ask before you start. The best way to know for sure is to contact the admissions office, employer, or licensing board that will receive your report. They have specific requirements, and asking them directly is the only way to guarantee you order the correct one. Taking a few minutes to send an email or make a phone call can save you from spending time and money on a report that doesn’t meet their needs.
What’s the real difference between a Document-by-Document and a Course-by-Course report? Think of a Document-by-Document report as a summary. It identifies your credentials, the institutions you attended, and provides their U.S. equivalent. A Course-by-Course report is much more detailed. It lists every course you took, converts your grades and credits to the U.S. system, and calculates a GPA. This detailed version is often required for university admissions or professional licensing where a deep understanding of your academic history is necessary.
What if my academic documents are not in English? If your transcripts or diplomas are in another language, you will need to have them professionally translated into English. Many evaluation services, including IEE, offer translation as an additional service. Handling the translation and evaluation through the same company can often simplify the process, as they can ensure the documents are translated correctly for their evaluation requirements. Just remember to account for this as a separate service and cost.
Why can’t I just use any evaluation service I find online? The acceptance of your evaluation report comes down to trust. Universities, employers, and government agencies need to be certain that your evaluation is accurate and impartial. NACES members are held to very high standards, and that membership acts as a seal of approval. Choosing a NACES member is the safest way to ensure your report will be widely accepted and prevent the risk of having your application delayed or rejected.
I have a tight deadline. How fast can I realistically get my evaluation? Processing times vary quite a bit across the industry, with some standard services taking several weeks or even months. However, many providers understand that deadlines are a reality and offer rush services for an extra fee. Some companies have also built their entire process around speed, offering standard turnarounds of just a few business days. If you’re in a hurry, look for a service that clearly states its processing times upfront so you know what to expect.
Key Takeaways
- Always Choose a NACES Member: To ensure your evaluation is widely accepted by universities, employers, and licensing boards, select a provider who is a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). This is the best way to guarantee your report will be recognized and trusted.
- Verify Requirements Before You Apply: The most important step you can take is to contact the institution receiving your report and confirm exactly which type of evaluation they need. Ordering the correct report from the start, such as a Course-by-Course analysis, saves you from costly and time-consuming mistakes.
- Compare Providers Based on Your Priorities: Look beyond the basic price and compare services on the factors that matter most to you. If you have a tight deadline, focus on standard processing times. If you have a complex background, look for strong customer support and clear document requirement guidelines.
