EC evaluation, or Educational Credential evaluation, is the process of reviewing academic achievements obtained in one country and determining their equivalence within the educational system of another country, commonly the U.S. or Canada. Organizations like Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) review academic achievements by individuals from other countries and convert them to the U.S. or Canadian system. This process is crucial for individuals seeking to pursue further education, employment, or professional licensing in a new country.
Understanding the Process
An EC evaluation is typically performed by specialized organizations or services. These services carefully examine educational documents such as diplomas, transcripts, and certificates from foreign institutions.
The evaluation involves:
- Verification of Documents: Ensuring the authenticity and legitimacy of the educational records.
- Analysis of Curriculum and Standards: Assessing the content, duration, and academic level of the foreign education compared to the standards of the target country (e.g., U.S. or Canada).
- Equivalency Determination: Assigning an equivalent academic level (e.g., Bachelor's degree, Master's degree, high school diploma) and, sometimes, an equivalent GPA within the target country's system.
Why is EC Evaluation Important?
For individuals with international education, an EC evaluation serves several key purposes:
- University Admissions: U.S. and Canadian universities often require an evaluation to understand how foreign qualifications compare to their admission standards.
- Employment: Employers, especially those in regulated professions, may need an evaluation to verify the equivalence of international degrees or certifications.
- Professional Licensing: Many professional bodies (e.g., for engineers, nurses, teachers) require an evaluation before issuing a license to practice.
- Immigration: Immigration processes sometimes require an evaluation to assess educational qualifications for points-based systems or specific visa requirements.
Types of Evaluations
Different situations may require different types of evaluations:
- General Evaluation: Describes the degree or diploma obtained and the institution attended, often indicating the U.S. or Canadian equivalent.
- Course-by-Course Evaluation: Provides a detailed breakdown of each course taken, including credit hours, grades, and the U.S. or Canadian equivalent grade. This type is often required for university admissions or professional licensing.
Here's a simplified comparison:
| Feature | General Evaluation | Course-by-Course Evaluation |
|---|---|---|
| Detail Level | Basic equivalency statement | Detailed analysis of subjects and credits |
| Common Use | Employment, general understanding | University admissions, professional licensing |
| Required Docs | Diplomas, Transcripts | Diplomas, Detailed Transcripts |
How to Get an Evaluation
Individuals typically apply to accredited evaluation services like ECE or others recognized by relevant bodies (e.g., NACES or AICE in the U.S., World Education Services in Canada). The process usually involves:
- Selecting the appropriate type of evaluation.
- Submitting required documents (often official transcripts sent directly from the educational institution).
- Paying the required fees.
- Waiting for the evaluation report, which is sent to the applicant and often directly to institutions or employers as requested.
Understanding EC evaluation is a vital step for individuals who have studied abroad and wish to continue their education or career path in the U.S. or Canada. It bridges the gap between different educational systems, providing clarity and credibility for foreign-earned credentials.
