Have you ever wondered how your foreign degree stacks up in a new country? We’re diving into the world of degree evaluation services, a crucial process for anyone looking to study, work, or immigrate abroad. These services play a vital role in assessing and comparing academic credentials across different educational systems, ensuring that your hard-earned qualifications are recognized and valued internationally.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore what degree evaluation services are and why they’re essential. We’ll take a look at top providers in the field, walk you through the evaluation process, and offer tips to choose the right service for your needs. We’ll also address common challenges you might face and provide insights to help you navigate the process smoothly. Whether you’re a student, professional, or employer, understanding degree evaluation is key to making informed decisions about education and career opportunities in a global context.

What are Degree Evaluation Services?

Degree evaluation services play a crucial role in assessing and comparing academic credentials across different educational systems. We’ll dive into the details of these services, their purpose, and the types of evaluations available.

Degree evaluation services are specialized processes that review and analyze academic achievements earned in one country and convert them to equivalent credentials in another country’s educational system. These services are particularly important for individuals who have completed part or all of their education outside their host country and are seeking further education, employment, or immigration opportunities abroad.

The primary purpose of degree evaluation services is to ensure that foreign academic qualifications are recognized and valued internationally. 

These services help:

1. Students planning to study overseas
2. Professionals seeking employment or licensure in a new country
3. Immigrants looking to establish their educational credentials
4. Institutions and employers to understand the value of foreign degrees

By providing a standardized assessment of academic credentials, degree evaluation services bridge the gap between different educational systems, making it easier for individuals to pursue their goals in a new country.

Types of evaluations

We offer two main types of degree evaluations:

1. Document-by-Document Evaluation

This type of evaluation provides a comprehensive overview of an individual’s educational background. It includes:

• A description of all educational credentials, starting from secondary school through post-secondary education
• An assessment of each credential’s equivalency to the U.S. education system
• Information on the recognition status of the awarding institutions
• Admissions requirements for each level of study
• Citations of source material used to determine equivalency
  
  

Document-by-Document evaluations are suitable for individuals, companies, universities, or legal firms seeking a general assessment of academic credentials.

2. Course-by-Course Evaluation

This more detailed evaluation is typically used by:

• International students applying to U.S. higher education institutions
• Professionals seeking licensure for employment
  
  

In addition to the information provided in a Document-by-Document evaluation, a Course-by-Course evaluation includes:

• A list of each course on the student’s transcript
• Conversion of course units to U.S. semester credit hours
• Conversion of grades to the U.S. 4.0 (A-F) grading scale
• A cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 numeric scale
  
  

At EEE OF AMERICA, we pride ourselves on being the best Degree Evaluation Service Provider in the USA. We understand the complexities of different educational systems and work diligently to provide accurate and comprehensive evaluations.

When choosing a degree evaluation service, it’s essential to consider factors such as turnaround time, acceptance by institutions, and additional services offered.

For example, some providers offer:

• Fast turnaround times (3-7 business days for standard service, with rush options available)
• Free electronic copies of evaluation reports
• Online verification of reports for schools and employers
• 24-hour cancelation policies with full refunds
• Worldwide acceptance by government agencies, colleges, universities, and organizations
  
  

By using a reputable degree evaluation service, individuals can ensure that their academic achievements are accurately represented and recognized in their new educational or professional environment.

Why Use Degree Evaluation Services?

In today’s globally connected world, we often find ourselves crossing borders to pursue education or professional opportunities. This is where degree evaluation services become crucial, providing a bridge to ensure smooth transitions and recognition of our academic achievements.

International Education Recognition

We understand that educational systems vary greatly across countries. Degree evaluation services offer a common language through which qualifications from different parts of the world can be accurately interpreted and understood. These services assess and compare foreign educational credentials to the destination country’s education system standards. This process ensures that the value and level of education attained abroad are accurately recognized, providing a solid foundation for further academic pursuits or professional endeavors.

For international students aiming to study in the USA, credential evaluation is a vital step towards achieving their academic goals. Most universities and colleges require international students to have their academic credentials evaluated to determine their eligibility for admission to different programs. This evaluation helps in gaining admission to higher education programs and can also facilitate the transfer of credits earned outside the USA. 

By determining the transferability of credits, we can help international students save time and money by avoiding the need to retake courses.

Employment Opportunities

Degree evaluation services play a significant role in enhancing job prospects for individuals seeking employment in a new country. Many employers require a clear understanding of an applicant’s educational background, and a professionally evaluated credential provides a standardized and reliable representation of the individual’s qualifications. This increases the likelihood of securing job opportunities that align with their expertise.

A credible educational credential evaluation is a passport to career advancement. It ensures that our academic achievements are accurately understood and recognized in the competitive job market. This recognition not only facilitates initial job placement but also paves the way for promotions, leadership roles, and increased responsibilities as employers trust the equivalency of our qualifications.

Different professions often have specific educational requirements, and a precise credential evaluation ensures that our qualifications align with industry standards. This is particularly vital for regulated professions where accurate recognition of our educational background is mandatory for licensure and professional certifications, allowing us to integrate seamlessly into our chosen field.

Further Education

Degree evaluation services offer clarity on educational pathways, providing us with insights into the compatibility of our foreign qualifications with various academic programs. This information is invaluable for those considering advanced degrees, vocational training, or specialized courses, as it guides us in making well-informed decisions aligned with our career goals.

Moreover, educational credential evaluation focuses not only on our academic qualifications but also highlights additional certifications, training, or coursework we may have undertaken. This detailed breakdown can be instrumental in showcasing our commitment to continuous learning, making us attractive candidates for specialized training programs, workshops, and professional development opportunities within our industry.

By guaranteeing that our credentials are globally accepted, degree evaluation services promote international career mobility, providing access to opportunities across borders and industries. They also offer insights into further training programs, licenses, or degrees that can enhance our skill set, encouraging a lifelong learning path and positioning us for continued professional success.

At EEE OF AMERICA, we pride ourselves on being the best Degree Evaluation Service Provider in the USA. We understand the complexities of different educational systems and work diligently to provide accurate and comprehensive evaluations, ensuring that your academic achievements are recognized and valued in your new educational or professional environment.

The Degree Evaluation Process

We understand that navigating the degree evaluation process can seem daunting, but we’re here to guide you through each step. Let’s break down this process into three key phases: application submission, document requirements, and the evaluation timeline.

Application Submission

To begin your degree evaluation journey, you’ll need to submit an application. This process is typically conducted online or by mail, depending on the service provider. 

Here’s what you need to know:

1. Start by visiting the evaluation service’s website and locating their application form.
2. Fill out the form accurately, ensuring you spell your name correctly and provide your exact date of birth.
3. Review your application thoroughly before submission to avoid any delays.
4. Some providers may require you to create an account, which allows you to track your application’s progress.
   
   

Remember, accuracy is crucial. Any mistakes in your application can lead to delays or even rejection of your evaluation request.

Document Requirements

The heart of your evaluation lies in the documents you provide. Here’s what you typically need to submit:

1. Original academic documents: These are the papers given directly to you by your institution, usually featuring official letterheads, stamps, or seals.
2. Official transcripts: Often, these need to be sent directly from your institution to the evaluation service in a sealed envelope.
3. Diplomas or degree certificates: Include copies of these if you’ve completed a degree program.
4. English translations: If your documents are in a language other than English, you’ll need to provide translations. Some services allow you to do this yourself, while others may require professional translation.
   
   

It’s important to note that requirements can vary based on your country of study and the specific evaluation service. Always check the provider’s website for detailed, country-specific requirements.

Evaluation Timeline

The duration of the evaluation process can vary, but here’s a general timeline to expect:

1. Document review: Once your application and documents are received, they’re reviewed for completeness and authenticity. This typically takes a few days.
2. Analysis and assessment: Evaluators then analyze your credentials and assess their equivalency. This is usually the longest part of the process.
3. Report production: Finally, the evaluation report is prepared, reviewed for quality, and sent to you.
   
   

On average, the entire process takes about 7 business days from the receipt of all required documents and payment. However, this can vary depending on the complexity of your educational background and the service provider’s workload.

Some providers offer expedited services for an additional fee if you need your evaluation more quickly. 

At EEE OF AMERICA, we pride ourselves on being the best Degree Evaluation Service Provider in the USA, offering efficient and accurate evaluations to meet your needs.

Remember, the evaluation process only begins once all necessary documents have been received and payment has been confirmed. 

To ensure a smooth process:

• Submit all required documents as specified by the evaluation service.
• Include your reference number on all correspondence.
• Respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
  
  

By following these guidelines and understanding the process, you’ll be well-prepared for your degree evaluation journey. Whether you’re pursuing further education, seeking employment, or navigating immigration processes, a well-executed degree evaluation can open doors to new opportunities.

Choosing the Right Evaluation Service

When it comes to selecting the right degree evaluation service, we need to consider several crucial factors. Let’s explore the key aspects that will help us make an informed decision.

Accreditation

One of the most important factors to consider is accreditation. We recommend choosing a service that’s a member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES). NACES is an association of U.S.-based, independent, nongovernmental organizations that provide credential evaluation services. Members of NACES are established organizations with knowledgeable staff and many years of professional service in the field of applied comparative education evaluation.

Institutions across the country trust NACES and consider agencies that are members as a sign of quality, professionalism, and dedication to the highest standards. For instance, Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) has been a charter member of NACES since 1987, which speaks to their credibility and expertise.

Turnaround Time

The time it takes to receive your evaluation report can be crucial, especially if you’re working with tight deadlines. Turnaround times can vary significantly between providers, ranging from a few days to several weeks.

For example, ECE boasts an average processing time of 3-5 business days from the date they receive all required information. However, it’s important to note that processing time can vary and doesn’t include delivery time, weekends, or holidays.

If you’re in a hurry, look for providers that offer rush services. Many evaluation services provide expedited options for an additional fee. For instance, if you have a deadline or need the report completed urgently, ECE recommends adding Rush Service to your order.

Cost

The cost of evaluation services can vary widely, so it’s essential to compare prices. However, don’t just look at the base price – consider all associated fees as well.

Here’s a comparison of prices for different services:

Remember, the cheapest option isn’t always the best. Consider the provider’s reputation, turnaround time, and the specific requirements of the institution or organization you’re submitting the evaluation to.

Customer Reviews

Reading reviews from past customers can provide valuable insights into the quality and reliability of an evaluation service. Look for reviews on various platforms, including Google Reviews, Facebook, and Quora.

Keep in mind that people are more likely to leave reviews when they’ve had a negative experience, so don’t be alarmed if you see some negative feedback. Instead, look at how the company responds to these reviews. Do they address concerns and try to resolve issues?

You can also check the Better Business Bureau (BBB) for additional information. 

Look for providers with BBB accreditation and high ratings.

At EEE OF AMERICA, we pride ourselves on being the best Degree Evaluation Service Provider in the USA. We understand the complexities of different educational systems and work diligently to provide accurate and comprehensive evaluations.

When making your final decision, consider all these factors together. The right evaluation service for you will balance accreditation, turnaround time, cost, and positive customer experiences. Remember to check with your college, university, or employer to find out which credential evaluation providers they accept and what type of report they require. This step can save you time and money in the long run.

Common Challenges in Degree Evaluation

We often encounter several hurdles when navigating the complex process of degree evaluation. Let’s explore some of the most common challenges we face and how to address them.

Document Translation

One of the primary obstacles we encounter is the language barrier. Many of us have documents in our native languages, which need to be translated for evaluation. For instance, WES U.S. requires translations of documents issued in languages other than English, while WES Canada needs English or French translations.

It’s crucial to note that we can’t simply provide English or French versions of our documents. Instead, we need to obtain word-for-word translations from either our academic institutions or a professional translation agency. This process can be time-consuming and potentially costly, but it’s essential for an accurate evaluation.

To ensure the best results, we recommend:

1. Requesting a sealed envelope of documents from our institution for the translator
2. Ensuring translations are exact and word-for-word
3. Using a professional translator from a university, certified translation agency, or other professional translation service

Verification Issues

Another significant challenge we face is document verification. Evaluation services need to establish the authenticity of our educational documents, which can sometimes lead to delays in the process.

While not all evaluation services contact educational institutions directly, they reserve the right to do so if needed. In cases where they must reach out for verification, the evaluation process can be substantially delayed.

To mitigate this challenge, many countries have government-authorized agencies and educational institutions that provide verification or authentication services.

These can include:

• Online databases
• Internet authentication services
• Official institutions that send authenticated documents directly to the evaluation service
  
  

We’re encouraged to use these verification and authentication services when available, even if they’re not explicitly listed in the documentation requirements for our country.

Equivalency Determination

Perhaps the most complex challenge we face is determining degree equivalency across different educational systems. There’s no single law, framework, or rule that universally defines a degree across comparative education systems.

We encounter various issues in this area:

1. Differences in degree duration: Some countries have three-year bachelor’s degrees, while others have five-year first university degrees.
2. Varied nomenclature: Degrees might be called Licentiate, Baccalaureate, Specialist, or even professional titles like “Engineer” or “Teacher.”
3. Structural differences: Educational ladders and degree structures can vary significantly between countries.

To navigate this challenge, credential evaluators need:

1. A comprehensive understanding of the U.S. education system structure
2. In-depth knowledge of the education system in our country of origin
3. Familiarity with degree and credential naming conventions in both systems
   
   

At EEE OF AMERICA, we pride ourselves on being the best Degree Evaluation Service Provider in the USA. We understand these complexities and work diligently to provide accurate and comprehensive evaluations.

By being aware of these common challenges, we can better prepare ourselves for the degree evaluation process. It’s crucial to gather all necessary documents, arrange for professional translations when needed, and utilize verification services where available. With proper preparation and the right evaluation service, we can successfully navigate these challenges and achieve an accurate degree equivalency assessment.

The Bottom Line

Degree evaluation services play a crucial role in bridging educational systems worldwide, enabling individuals to pursue their dreams across borders. These services provide a standardized assessment of academic credentials, helping students, professionals, and immigrants navigate the complexities of international education and employment. By offering a clear understanding of foreign qualifications, they open doors to new opportunities and facilitate smoother transitions in an increasingly globalized world.

As we’ve explored, choosing the right evaluation service involves considering factors such as accreditation, turnaround time, and cost. It’s essential to be prepared for common challenges like document translation and verification issues. To ensure a smooth evaluation process, gather all necessary documents, arrange for professional translations when needed, and utilize verification services where available. Take EEE Of America, affordable and trusted degree evaluation services. With proper preparation and the right evaluation service, you can successfully navigate these challenges and achieve an accurate assessment of your academic achievements.

FAQs

What are some top-rated credential evaluation services?
Several leading credential evaluation companies are recognized for their quality services.

Some of these include:

• MotaWord, offering services starting at $65 with a turnaround of 3 days or less.
• World Education Services (WES), with fees starting at $111 and processing times of 7 business days.
• A2Z Evaluations, which charges $245 and completes evaluations within three weeks.
• Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE), with prices starting at $100 and a 5 business day processing time.
• Academic Credentials Evaluation Institute, also highly regarded in the field.
  
  

Is it advisable to get a WES evaluation?
Yes, if you are planning to move to the United States or Canada for further studies or employment, obtaining a WES credential evaluation report can be beneficial. It is widely recognized and can significantly support your applications for post-secondary education and jobs.

What is the process to obtain a credential evaluation from WES?
To get evaluated by WES, follow these three simple steps:

1. Submit your application to WES and obtain a reference number.
2. Review the document requirements specified by WES and send your documents, including your WES reference number.
3. WES will then verify your credentials, prepare your evaluation report, and send it to the designated recipients.
   
   

Is a WES evaluation recognized in the United States?
Yes, WES evaluations are widely accepted across the United States by universities, licensing boards, government agencies, and employers. WES is one of the largest and oldest credential evaluation services in the U.S., evaluating credentials for about 50,000 individuals globally each year.