If you earned your degree or professional certificate outside the United States and now want to study, work, or immigrate here, you’ll likely need a credential evaluation. This process helps U.S. universities, employers, and licensing boards understand the value of your international education in American terms.
In this guide, we’ll break down why certificate evaluation matters, the types of evaluations available, and how you can get started.
Why Do You Need Certificate Evaluation?
International academic systems vary widely. For example, a bachelor’s degree in one country may be equivalent to an associate’s degree in the U.S. Without evaluation, employers and schools cannot accurately compare qualifications. You may need an evaluation for university admission, employment, professional licensing, or immigration.
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Types of Certificate Evaluations
Document-by-Document Evaluation: Verifies each certificate or diploma, states the U.S. equivalent of your degree, and is often used for employment or immigration purposes.
Course-by-Course Evaluation: Lists each course, grades, credits, and GPA, providing a U.S. equivalent transcript. Typically required by universities and licensing boards.
Trusted Credential Evaluation Agencies
| Agency | Specialization | Recognition | Processing Time | Typical Fees |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| World Education Services (WES) | University and employer evaluations | Widely accepted | 7–15 business days | $160–$205 |
| Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) | Higher education focus | Broad acceptance | 2–4 weeks | $100–$195 |
| Globe Language Services | Immigration, education, and employment | Accepted by USCIS, universities, and employers | 1–3 weeks | $120–$220 |
| Josef Silny & Associates (JS&A) | Detailed course evaluations | Accepted by schools and licensing boards | 3–5 weeks | $150–$250 |
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Steps to Get Your Certificate Evaluated
- Identify the requirement: Ask your school, employer, or licensing board which type of evaluation they require.
- Choose an accredited agency: Select a NACES or AICE member for broad recognition.
- Gather your documents: Diplomas, transcripts, mark sheets, and professional licenses, along with certified translations if documents are not in English.
- Submit your application: Fill out the agency’s online form and pay the required fee.
- Receive your evaluation report: Processing can take from one to four weeks, and reports may be sent to you and directly to the requesting institution.
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Pro Tips for a Smooth Process
Verify requirements early, since some schools only accept evaluations from specific agencies. Request extra copies if you’ll be applying to multiple institutions. Plan ahead, as deadlines for schools, visas, or licensing can be strict, and evaluation takes time.
Final Thoughts
Evaluating your certificate in the USA may sound complex, but it’s simply about making your achievements understood in American terms. By choosing the right evaluation type and a trusted agency, you’ll open doors to education, career, and immigration opportunities. Think of it as an investment in your future your hard-earned degree deserves recognition everywhere.
