If you have received a degree, diploma or certificate from another country but want to immigrate to Canada many times you may need an ECA. Having an ECA will increase your CRS score for your Express Entry profile. The more points you have the better chances you have for getting picked during an Express Entry draw.
What Is an ECA (Educational Credential Assessment)?
An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is used to verify that your foreign degree, diploma, or certificate (or other proof of your credential) is valid and equal to a Canadian one. There are different types of ECAs. You need to get an ECA for immigration purposes. If you got another type of ECA, you should contact the designated organization to see if they will re-issue it.
Do I Need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)?
If you completed your education outside Canada, you need an assessment to:
- be eligible as the principal applicant for Federal Skilled Workers Program (Express Entry), or
- earn points for education you got outside Canada
You can also earn points for your spouse or common-law partner’s education, if they are coming with you to Canada.
Which credentials to get assessed
In most cases, you only need an assessment for your highest level of education. For example, if you have a Master’s degree, you only need an assessment for that degree. You don’t need one for your Bachelor’s degree.
When to get an assessment for 2 or more credentials
To get points for having 2 or more credentials, you need an assessment for each one.
To get full points for more than 1 credential, at least 1 of the credentials must be for 3 or more years of study.
The order that you complete your credentials does not affect points.
When to get your secondary education assessed
If your post-secondary credential is not equal to a Canadian credential, you could get your secondary credential assessed. This would get you points for completing secondary school.
How Do I Get an ECA (Educational Credential Assessment)?
- Choose a designated organization that can assess your specific credentials.
- Gather all required documents. This usually includes your educational certificates, transcripts, and potentially other supporting documents.
- Submit your application. Be sure to follow the specific instructions provided by the chosen organization.
- Pay the required fees for the ECA process.
- Wait for the assessment. The processing time can vary, so be patient.
- Once the assessment is complete, you will receive an ECA report detailing the Canadian equivalent of your foreign education level.
Where Can I Get an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)?
Designated organizations
You must use one of these designated organizations:
- Comparative Education Service – University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies
- designated: April 17, 2013
- International Credential Assessment Service of Canada
- designated: April 17, 2013
- World Education Services
- designated: April 17, 2013
- International Qualifications Assessment Service
- designated: August 6, 2015
- International Credential Evaluation Service
- designated: August 6, 2015
Choosing a designated organization based on your occupation
If you plan to work for a large employer or in a regulated occupation, you may need to have your assessment done by a specific designated organization.
What Does My ECA Report Mean?
Your report must show that your foreign credential is valid and equal to a completed Canadian secondary school (high school) or post-secondary credential. If it does, you must include the result and reference number in your Express Entry profile.
If your report shows that your credential isn’t equal to a completed Canadian credential or the foreign educational institution is not recognized:
- you won’t meet the education requirement under the Federal Skilled Workers Program
- you won’t get any points for it
How Can I Get More Points in My Express Entry Profile?
If you want to have even more points in your Express Entry profile there are several ways to improve your CRS score. Find out 8 simple steps to improving your CRS score for Express Entry.
What Is the Cost of an ECA: How to Save Money
The cost of an ECA can vary depending on the specific organization and the type of assessment. However, it typically ranges between $150 to $300 CAD. While there’s no direct way to save money on the ECA fee itself, here are some tips to consider:
- Choose the Right Application: When applying for an ECA, select the specific option for IRCC. This is often more affordable than the standard option.
- Opt for Standard Courier: Instead of expedited shipping, choose a standard courier service. You only need the digital PDF report, which you can receive electronically once the assessment is complete.
- Skip Additional Recipients: Avoid sending the ECA report to multiple recipients. The PDF version is sufficient for your Canadian immigration application.
- Bundle Your Degrees: If you have multiple degrees, consider getting them assessed together in a single application. Many organizations charge per application, not per degree, so this can save you time and money.
- Assess Your Spouse’s Degree Wisely: Before getting an ECA for your spouse’s education, calculate your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. If your score is high enough without your spouse’s points, you might not need to proceed with their ECA.
Are You Interested in Getting an ECA for Canadian Immigration?
If so, Contact VisaPlace today. All our cases are handled by competent and experienced immigration professionals who are affiliated with VisaPlace. These professionals consist of lawyers, licensed paralegals, and consultants who work for VisaPlace Legal an award-winning immigration firm that adheres to the highest standards of client service.
Ready for the next step? Book your 1 on 1 consultation now or call us at 1-877-296-0874.
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