ECA
Key Points
What is an An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)?
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.
Who needs 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), Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) , 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. To earn points, your report must show that your completed foreign credential (degree, diploma or certificate) is equal to a completed Canadian secondary school (high school) or post-secondary credential.
Who can do your assessment?
You must get your assessment from an organisation or a professional body designated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. They will give you a report that tells you what your education is equal to in Canada.
What are the different types of an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)?
There are different types of ECAs.
WES
IQAS
CES
ICAS
ICES
and designated organisation for Physicians and Pharmacists
What is the processing time and cost of an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)?
Processing times and costs may vary by organisation or professional body.
Once you choose a designated organisation or a professional body, they will tell you how to submit your documents to get your assessment.
You must include your ECA report and the reference number in your Express Entry profile.
Your ECA report may help when you’re looking for a job.