EDE credential evaluations for immigration to Canada: A detailed guide

Immigration to Canada is a process that generates a great deal of interest and questions. One of the main concerns for applicants is the evaluation of diplomas obtained in their countries of origin. This procedure is a crucial step for admission to the Canadian immigration system. In this article, we will explore the various facets of the evaluation of foreign diplomas for immigration to Canada.

Importance of Diploma Evaluation

Evaluating foreign qualifications is a necessary step for anyone wishing to immigrate to Canada. This assessment has several important implications that can potentially influence the success of the immigration application and the individual's professional future in the country.

Understanding the equivalence of qualifications

Firstly, credential evaluation enables Canadian authorities to establish an objective comparison between diplomas obtained abroad and those issued by Canadian educational institutions. As a result, it helps determine whether the qualifications of prospective immigrants meet the educational criteria required for immigration programs or for certain professions in Canada.

Facilitating integration into the Canadian job market

Then, by determining the equivalence of your diplomas with Canadian standards, theanadian employers can better understand your level of education and qualifications. This can make your job search easier, as employers will be able to compare your qualifications directly with those needed for the positions available. Without an assessment, it may be more difficult for employers to understand the value of your qualifications, which could potentially limit your employment opportunities.

Optimize immigration score

Finally, a positive evaluation of your qualifications can have a significant impact on your career. score in points-based immigration systemssuch as Express Entry or Arrima. As mentioned earlier, these systems award points for various categories, including education. A favorable evaluation can therefore increase your total score and improve your chances of immigrating.

Understanding the Importance of Diplomas in the Express Entry Program

Express Entry is a system put in place by the Canadian government to manage immigration applications from skilled workers. Under this system, applicants are evaluated and ranked according to several criteria, including age, work experience, language skills and education. Candidates with the highest points are then invited to apply for permanent residency.

How the points system works

Under the Express Entry system, a maximum of 1,200 points can be awarded. These points are divided between several categories of criteria, including language skills (up to 260 points for a single applicant and up to 270 points for a couple), work experience (up to 80 points), age (up to 110 points), and education (up to 150 points for a single applicant and up to 160 points for a couple).

Points awarded for education are determined according to the candidate's level of education, field of study, and the equivalence of these qualifications in the Canadian education system.

Diploma evaluation and points system

A positive evaluation of your diplomas is essential to maximize your score in the "education" category. For example, a candidate with a positive evaluation for a doctoral degree can receive up to 150 points, while a candidate with a bachelor's degree can receive up to 120 points.

It's important to note that diplomas must be recognized as at least equivalent to a Canadian high school diploma to earn points in this category. Thus, an unfavorable evaluation (for example, if your diploma is not recognized as equivalent to a Canadian high school diploma) may lower your total score and, consequently, your chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency.

Additional considerations

The results of your diploma evaluation can also influence other aspects of your score in the Express Entry system. For example, certain diplomas can give you extra points if you have skills in a particularly in-demand profession.

Importance of credential evaluation in Quebec's Arrima immigration system

Similar to the Express Entry system, Arrima uses a points system to evaluate immigration applicants, including their education. However, there are significant differences in the way points are awarded.

In the Arrima system, candidates are evaluated on a total of 1,200 points. These points are divided into various categories, including training (up to 600 points), work experience (up to 156 points), age (up to 120 points), language skills (up to 276 points), residence and family in Quebec (up to 162 points) and validated job offers (up to 380 points).

Diploma evaluation and the Arrima points system

As with the Express Entry system, the evaluation of your diplomas is essential to maximize your score in the Arrima system. However, Quebec places particular emphasis on training, with up to 600 points available, representing half of the total score possible.

The evaluation of your credentials takes into account several factors, including degree level, field of study and length of study. Diplomas earned in the province of Quebec or related to priority fields of study may earn additional points.

The Assessment Process

The diploma evaluation process may seem complex, but with a clear understanding of the steps, you can successfully navigate your way through it. Here are the key steps in the evaluation process.

1. Choice of assessment organization

The first step is to choose the appropriate evaluation body. Canada has several credential-recognition bodies, each with specific standards and criteria. Canadian immigration authorities provide a list of accredited assessment bodies, including the World Education Services (WES)Comparative Education Service (CES), and others. It is important to note that not all assessment agencies are accepted for all immigration programs.

2. Submitting documents

Once you've chosen your assessment agency, you'll need to submit all the documents required for the assessment. These documents may include academic transcripts, diplomas or certificates, and sometimes course or program descriptions. It's crucial to provide all required documents and to follow the evaluation organization's instructions carefully to ensure an accurate and timely evaluation.

3. Diploma evaluation

The assessment agency then reviews your documents and determines the equivalence of your credentials in the Canadian education system. This process can take several weeks, depending on the organization and the complexity of the evaluation.

4. Receive the evaluation report

Once the evaluation is complete, you will receive an evaluation report indicating the equivalence of your diplomas. This report will be crucial for your immigration application, and can also be useful when looking for a job. employment in Canada.

In short, while the assessment process can be lengthy and sometimes complicated, it is unavoidable to maximize your chances of successfully immigrating to Canada and integrating effectively into the Canadian job market. By understanding each step of the process, you can ensure that you navigate it successfully.

How do you evaluate your qualifications with WES?

World Education Services (WES) is one of Canada's leading credential evaluation organizations. To evaluate your credentials with WES, follow these steps:

1. Create a WES account The first step is to create an online account on the WES website. You'll need to provide basic information, including your full name, address and educational background.
2. Evaluation type selection WES offers two types of assessment - Document-by-Document and Course-by-Course. For immigration purposes, you will generally need a basic assessment.
3. Document submission Once you have paid the evaluation fee, you will receive instructions on how to submit your documents. This may involve sending sealed official documents directly from your institution to WES.
4. Document verification Once WES has received your documents, they will be checked for authenticity. If additional documents are required, WES will let you know.
5. Evaluation : The WES team will evaluate your diplomas and determine their equivalence in the Canadian education system.
6. Receipt of evaluation report Once the evaluation is complete, you will receive an electronic evaluation report. If you need a printed report, you can request one from WES at an additional cost.

By working with WES, you can get an accurate, recognized assessment of your credentials that can help you immigrate to Canada. Be sure to follow WES' instructions carefully and provide all required documents to ensure a smooth evaluation process.

World Evaluation Services (WES) : Rates

WES offers a Foreign Credential Evaluation (FCE), which is often required to register for certain Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) programs. Here's a description of their services and the corresponding fees:

Foreign diploma evaluation (FDE)

The WES foreign credential evaluation (FCE) allows you to meet IRCC's foreign credential evaluation requirements, have your education recognized to further your goals in Canada, and save your report and study certificates for future use. The WES EDS is valid for five years from the date of issue.

Rate : 200 CAD

Please note that the price does not include delivery charges, taxes or additional fees. WES does not evaluate professional qualifications or titles.

Additional fees

• Standard delivery (no tracking) : 11 CAD
• Delivery by post (with tracking) 89 CAD for U.S. and international courier services per address, 26 CAD for next-day courier delivery per address (Canada only).
• Updating a completed appraisal to add a new qualification, convert an EDE to document-by-document evaluation, or convert an EDE to course-by-course evaluation: 104 CAD to add a new qualification or convert an EDE, 52 CAD to convert an EDE to document-by-document evaluation.
• Duplicate reports ordered after a completed evaluation 52 CAD for the first report (WES Basic), 32 CAD for the first report (WES ICAP), and 32 CAD for each additional report.

Standard processing time for a qualification evaluation is seven (7) business days after receipt, review, and approval of all documents, and full payment. IRCC applications require 30 business days for processing.

Alternatives to WES for Diploma Evaluation

While WES is one of the best-known organizations for diploma evaluation, there are other IRCC-accredited organizations (ImmigrationRefugees and Citizenship Canada) who provide similar services. Here are a few alternatives:

1. International comparison of professional qualifications (ICAS)

ICAS offers a variety of credential evaluations that are recognized by employers, educational institutions and immigration agencies in Canada. Their services include assessments of all levels of education - from high school to post-doctorate.

ICAS rates

General assessment report

This is the most popular report offered by ICAS (also called "document-by-document assessment"). It describes successful studies and suggests the comparable level in Ontario/Canada for each academic qualification. This report is frequently requested by employers.

Rate : 120 CAD

If you're not sure which type of report is right for your situation, ICAS recommends starting with the general assessment report. If a full report is required at a later date, an update can be requested.

Full evaluation report - Secondary studies

This report describes successful high school studies outside Canada and suggests the comparable level of education in Ontario/Canada. It also provides a list of courses/subjects completed at a level comparable to Grade 12 in Ontario/Canada, along with comparable credits and marks. This report is often required for admission to a post-secondary program.

Rate : 165 CAD

Full evaluation report - Post-secondary education

Also known as a course-by-course evaluation of postsecondary education, this report describes postsecondary education (college/university) successfully completed outside Canada, and suggests the comparable level in Ontario/Canada for each academic credential. The report also provides a list of successful courses/subjects, as well as comparable credits and grades.

Rate : 215 CAD

Full evaluation report - Secondary and post-secondary education

This report combines the complete High School Evaluation Report and the complete Post-Secondary Evaluation Report. It describes successful studies, suggests the comparable level in Ontario/Canada, and provides a list of successful secondary and post-secondary courses/subjects, with comparable credits and grades.

Rate : 310 CAD

2. International Credential Evaluation Centre of Canada (ICES)

ICES is a British Columbia-based credential evaluation service that offers accurate and reliable evaluation of international credentials. They offer two types of evaluations: a basic evaluation and a detailed evaluation.

ICES fees

ICES fees vary according to the type of assessment and how quickly you need the results. Rates for a basic evaluation start at 200 CAD.

3. International Credential Evaluation Services (ICD)

ICD is an Ontario-based service that evaluates international credentials for use in Canada. They offer a comprehensive assessment of academic qualifications.

ICD rates

ICD fees vary according to the type of diploma and level of education. Fees for a full assessment start at around 200 CAD.

Documents Required for Diploma Evaluation

The diploma evaluation procedure requires original academic documents to be sent to the evaluation body. This includes the diploma or certificate and the student's academic record, which includes transcripts, grade sheets, index, etc. These documents are essential for preparing an evaluation report. These documents are essential for preparing an evaluation report.

Please note that you will be asked to provide a full copy of clear photocopies of the original documents. In addition, documents can be sent directly by the originating establishment or competent authority.

If you have a graduate degree, such as a doctorate in philosophy, you must also submit a copy of the title page, table of contents and abstract of your thesis or dissertation.

Please note that the assessment process may vary depending on the assessment organization. It is therefore advisable to consult the specific requirements of the chosen evaluation organization before starting the process. However, it is quite common for transcripts to be requested during diploma evaluation, in addition to the other documents listed above.

Here is a general list of the most commonly required documents for diploma evaluation:

1. Identity documents A copy of your passport or national identity card.
2. Degrees/Diplomas A copy of all diplomas or degrees obtained. Diplomas should indicate the title of the degree, the name of the institution, the place and date obtained.
3. Academic transcripts These documents must list all the courses you have taken during your studies, the grades you have earned for each course, and the number of hours or credits you have earned.
4. Proof of graduation This can be an official document from the institution showing that you have actually obtained the diploma.
5. Document translation If your documents are not in English or French (Canada's official languages), you will need to provide a certified translation of these documents.
6. Previous evaluations If you have already had your qualifications assessed by another assessment body, you can provide a copy of these assessments.

It's a good idea to start collecting these documents as soon as possible, as it can take time to obtain certain documents, especially if you're requesting them from institutions abroad. In addition, there may be costs associated with obtaining these documents and sending them to the assessment agency in Canada.

Comparison of credential evaluation agencies for immigration to Canada

When planning immigration to CanadaIf you're a Canadian citizen, it's important to have your credentials assessed to ensure that they are recognized within the Canadian education system. Several organizations are qualified to provide these evaluations, and each has its own advantages, costs and requirements. The following table compares some of the most popular evaluation agencies to help you make an informed choice.

Please note that all of the above organizations are recognized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and offer credential evaluation services for immigration to Canada. However, the cost and processing time may vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the evaluation, the number of diplomas to be evaluated, and other factors.

It is always advisable to check directly with the assessment organization for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

10 Tips for evaluating credentials for immigration to Canada

1. Familiarize yourself with the process Before you start, find out more about the credential evaluation process. It's crucial to understand the different stages involved, the assessment bodies available and what each one requires.
2. Choose the right assessment organization : The choice of evaluation organization can depend on a number of factors, including your field of study, the province in which you plan to settle and the type of evaluation report required.
3. Prepare your documents in advance Make sure you have all the documents you need for the assessment. This may include diplomas, transcripts and other relevant documents. It's also a good idea to make photocopies of all your documents.
4. Consider deadlines The evaluation process can take time. Allow sufficient time to gather documents, send your application and wait for the evaluation report.
5. Plan your budget The cost of credential evaluation can vary depending on the evaluation organization chosen and the type of report required. Plan your budget accordingly.
6. Meet all requirements Each assessment organization has its own specific requirements. Make sure you meet all these requirements to avoid any delays or problems.
7. Be patient The evaluation of diplomas is an important step in the immigration process, but it can be long and sometimes frustrating. It's important to remain patient and follow the process step by step.
8. Don't hesitate to ask for help If you encounter any difficulties or have any questions during the process, please do not hesitate to contact the assessment organization for assistance.
9. Keep a copy of your evaluation report Once you receive your evaluation report, keep a copy in a safe place. You may need it in the future.
10. Stay up to date Immigration policies and assessment requirements may change over time. Make sure you keep up to date with the latest information to avoid any misunderstandings or delays.

After the Assessment

Use of results

The results of the assessment are used by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to determine your eligibility to immigrate. They can also be used by employers to understand your level of education, and by educational institutions if you plan to continue your studies in Canada.

Things to keep in mind

It is important to note that diploma evaluation is only one part of the immigration process. The immigration are also examining other criteria, such as professional experience, language skills and other factors.

Conclusion

Diploma evaluation is a necessary step for immigration to Canada. By understanding this process and preparing carefully, you can improve your chances of success. However, it's also essential to familiarize yourself with the entire immigration process to make sure you meet all the requirements.