When you start looking into immigrating to Canada, there’s one step that often catches people off guard. It’s called an Educational Credential Assessment, and if you’re planning to move to Canada through most skilled worker programs, you’ll probably need one.

So, what does that mean for you? It means your degrees, diplomas, and certifications: everything you worked hard to earn has to be reviewed and verified to see how they compare to Canadian standards. It’s not about questioning the quality of your education, but rather translating it into something Canada understands.

However, how your education is assessed can significantly impact your eligibility, ranking in Express Entry, and the types of job opportunities that become available once you arrive. Which makes this more than just a formality; it’s a make-or-break document in your immigration file.

In this post, we shall explore what an Educational Credential Assessment means for you and how it fits into your Canada immigration journey.

What is an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)?

An Educational Credential Assessment is a formal report that tells the Canadian government whether your foreign educational background is equal to a completed credential from a Canadian school.

Whether you have a master’s or a diploma from any country, Canada won’t just take your word for it. For your application, a Canada immigration education assessment is required from an authorized agency.

You send your documents, they evaluate them, and then they give you back a report. That report says something like, “This is equivalent to a Canadian four-year degree.” Or maybe, “This is equivalent to a post-secondary diploma.” That’s your ECA.

Who Needs an ECA for Canadian Immigration?

Not everyone. But if you’re applying through Express Entry under the Federal Skilled Worker (and in some cases the Canada Experience Class) Program, you need one. If you’re hoping to score points in the education section of your profile, you’ll also need an ECA for Canada immigration.

Now, if your education is from a Canadian institution, you’re in the clear. No need for an ECA there.

However, if your education is entirely from outside Canada and you’re applying for one of the skilled immigration programs, skipping this step isn’t an option. Even for the Federal Skilled Trades or Canadian Experience Class, it might still help. More points. Better chances.

Which Organizations Are Authorized to Issue ECA Reports?

Here’s where things can get a little tricky. Not just any organization can issue an Educational Credential Assessment. Only a few agencies are recognized by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada). And they don’t all do the same thing. Let’s go over them quickly:

WES (World Education Services)

This is a widely recognized and frequently discussed option. WES is recognized for having efficient processing and an application system that is easy to navigate. That said, some applicants say it can be strict. If your institution doesn’t send the documents the exact way WES wants, expect delays.

ICAS (International Credential Assessment Service of Canada)

Not as fast as WES, but for some, it’s more flexible. ICAS can be a good option if WES doesn’t recognize your institution or if you’ve had trouble there before.

CES (Comparative Education Service, University of Toronto)

Run by a respected university, CES tends to be thorough. The turnaround time can be slower than WES, but the evaluations are solid.

IQAS (International Qualifications Assessment Service)

Based in Alberta but accepted nationwide. Not the quickest option, but worth considering if you’re having trouble with the others.

MCC (Medical Council of Canada)

If you’re a doctor or have completed a medical degree abroad, you’ll need to go through MCC. No exceptions here.

PEBC (Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada)

The same goes for pharmacists. If your goal is to work as a licensed pharmacist in Canada, PEBC is the route.

Now, picking the right agency is a decision that might affect how your degree is assessed. The decision isn’t based solely on processing time or price. It’s also about how your education will be interpreted.

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for an ECA

Let’s not overcomplicate it. Here’s how it usually goes:

  1. Choose your agency from the list of IRCC-approved organizations.
  2. Create an account on their website.
  3. Gather your documents, including degrees, transcripts, and any other requested materials.
  4. Send documents directly from your school, unless they allow otherwise.
  5. Pay the fees. The cost for the fees ranges from $200 to $300 CAD.
  6. Wait. Then wait a bit more.

The ECA report will be provided electronically, with the option for a printed copy based on the specific service. Once that’s in your hands, you can move forward with your immigration application.

ECA Processing Time and Cost

Now, about the ECA processing time; this part can test your patience.

WES? It usually takes around 35 business days after they receive all your paperwork. It is common for ICAS and CES evaluations to take a longer period to complete, with timelines potentially extending beyond 12 weeks.  IQAS used to be slower, but has improved in recent years.

Cost-wise, you’re looking at $200 to $300 CAD, excluding the cost of sending or translating your documents.

It might feel like a lot. But again, this one step influences your CRS score, eligibility, and application success. Avoid rushing the process and skipping essential steps.

How to Interpret ECA Results: What Counts for IRCC?

Let’s say your report comes back and says your degree is “equivalent to a Canadian post-secondary diploma.” What does that actually mean?

Well, it means that, in the eyes of the Canadian government, you have the equivalent of one year of post-secondary education. That’s fewer CRS points than if your credential were assessed as a bachelor’s or master’s.

So, yes, the wording matters. The agency you choose might make a difference in how they classify your education. Some applicants, for example, get a diploma recognized by one agency and a degree from another.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Submitting ECA Documents

Here’s where many get stuck.

  • Sending incomplete documents
  • Using unofficial transcripts
  • Not following the agency’s exact mailing requirements
  • Failing to translate non-English documents properly

Each agency has its quirks. Some require your university to mail documents directly. Others want digital uploads. If you assume they’ll make an exception, they won’t.

Also, triple-check the name on your documents. It needs to match your ID. One typo? That can delay things by weeks.

Can I  Use Your ECA for Multiple Applications or Streams?

In most cases, yes. As long as it’s valid (IRCC says ECAs are good for five years), you can use the same ECA across multiple Express Entry profiles, PNP applications, or even job searches.

Just keep in mind that if your immigration plans change, or if you earn a new credential, you might need a new ECA. Or at least an update.  Some immigration programs require the Educational Credential Assessment  to be less than five years old.

Contact Chaudhary Law Office for Immigration Help

A great deal depends on the results of your Educational Credential Assessment.  Not just in terms of paperwork, but in how the government sees your qualifications. You don’t want to gamble with it.

That’s where legal guidance can be helpful. With Chaudhary Law Office, you’re not just getting an overview; you’re getting clarity. Someone walking you through the fine print, helping you pick the right agency, and reviewing your documents before you submit.

Our team has helped numerous clients navigate this specific aspect of the process. And if something unexpected comes up? Let us take care of the fine print while you plan your next steps.

If you’re serious about making Canada your home, don’t guess your way through this process.

Contact Chaudhary Law Office today to speak with an experienced immigration lawyer in Canada. You can reach us at 416-447-6118.

FAQs

What is an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)?

It’s an official report that compares your foreign education to Canadian standards. Required for most skilled immigration pathways.

How do I get an ECA for Canada immigration?

Choose an IRCC-approved agency, send your documents, pay the fee, and wait for the results.

How long does the ECA process take?

Depends on the agency. WES is often faster, around 35 days, while others can take 8 to 12 weeks.

Which is the best organization for ECA in Canada?

There’s no single answer. WES is popular, but not always ideal for every country or credential. It depends on your background.

Can I immigrate to Canada without an ECA?

That won’t work if your application is under the Federal Skilled Worker program. Although some other programs might not require it, ECA can still boost your chances.

Do I need a separate ECA for each degree?

Not always. One comprehensive report may cover all your credentials. But it depends on what you submit.

Is ECA required for all immigration programs in Canada?

No. But if you want to claim education points, especially under Express Entry, it’s almost always required.

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