WES Credential Evaluation in Canada: Step-by-Step Guide for Newcomers

What Is Credential Evaluation?

Credential evaluation is the process of having your foreign education assessed and compared to Canadian standards. Many employers, licensing bodies, and universities require this before recognizing your degree or diploma.

The most widely accepted credential evaluator in Canada is World Education Services (WES). An IRCC-approved WES evaluation is required for most immigration applications and is accepted by hundreds of employers and institutions.

When Do You Need a WES Evaluation?

• Applying for Express Entry (CRS points for education)
• Applying to a Canadian university or college for further studies
• Professional licensing (engineering, nursing, accounting, teaching)
• Employers who require credential verification
• Some provincial nominee programs (PNPs)

Also see: WelcomeAide's full credential recognition guide

Step-by-Step: Getting Your WES Evaluation

1. Create a WES account at wes.org/ca
2. Choose the right report type: ECA (Educational Credential Assessment) for immigration purposes, or Course-by-Course evaluation for academic/employment purposes
3. Pay the fee: ECA report: US$215 + courier fees. Course-by-course: US$260+
4. Request documents from your institution: Official transcripts sent directly from your university to WES, plus degree certificates
5. WES reviews and issues your report: Processing takes 7 business days once all documents are received

Documents Required

• Official transcripts from every post-secondary institution you attended
• Degree/diploma/certificate (certified copy or notarized)
• English or French translations of all documents (if not already in English/French)

WES vs. Other Evaluators

WES is the most recognized but not the only option. Other IRCC-approved evaluators include:

• ICAS (International Credential Assessment Service)
• CES (Comparative Education Service at U of T)
• IQAS (International Qualifications Assessment Service) — free for Alberta residents

Check which evaluator is accepted by your specific licensing body or employer.

After Your WES Evaluation

A WES evaluation doesn't automatically license you to practice in regulated professions. For engineering, nursing, medicine, law, and teaching, you need to apply to the provincial regulatory body separately. Read: Steps to get your professional credentials recognized in Canada