What is an ECA and who needs one?
An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is an assessment report required by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for individuals applying to Canada under economic class immigration who have obtained degrees and diplomas outside of Canada. The ECA is a factor in an applicant’s score in IRCC’s points-based Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). It is part of Express Entry and is required for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) paths to permanent residency. An ECA conveys benefits for five years and can be extended.
Why should you trust WES with your ECA?
WES evaluates academic credentials from more than 48,000 institutions in 203 countries and territories around the world. Our industry-standard reports are recognized by thousands of academic institutions, licensing bodies, and employers throughout the U.S. and Canada. Since 1974, we have provided more than 3 million people from around the world with top-quality credential evaluation services. Our processes are digitized, enabling WES to deliver ECA reports within 35 business days of receiving your complete and accurate documents.
Fast Service
WES can complete your evaluation in 35 business days after they receive and approve all your documents.
Trusted Evaluations
WES has provided more than 3 million evaluations to international students and professionals.
Unmatched Resources
WES has a diverse staff and a custom-built database that contains over 46 years of research.
With a WES ECA you can:
- Meet IRCC immigration program requirements (note for physicians and pharmacists)
- Meet Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) requirements (especially the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program)
- Qualify for IRCC’s Agri-Food Immigration Pilot
- Gain recognition for your education so you can pursue your goals in Canada
- Store your report (and verified educational documents) for future use
A WES ECA is valid for five years from the date of issue. For example, you can continue using it for future Express Entry profiles.
Note: ECA applicants only need to submit their highest earned credential. However, there are a few exceptions to this requirement. For more information, please read: WES Requirements for ECAs.
“I had earned my doctorate in epidemiology in China, but I had to prove I had specialized training and education to get a job. I was finally offered a position in epidemiology because my employer understood my qualifications because of WES’ evaluation report.”
– Dr. Bruce (Zhiyong) Hong
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW)
For skilled workers with foreign work experience who meet educational requirements. Learn more.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
For skilled workers with Canadian work experience within the past three years. Learn more.
Federal Skilled Trade Program (FST)
For workers qualified in a skilled trade with a valid job offer or certificate of qualification. Learn more.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
For applicants interested in immigrating to a specific Canadian province or territory. Learn more.
