Credential Evaluation Services for U.S. Degree Equivalency

U.S. institutions do not accept foreign education transcripts directly. Your international academic credentials must undergo formal assessment to establish their U.S. equivalency. This evaluation process is mandatory because U.S. immigration authorities like USCIS will issue an RFE (Request for Evidence) if an academic evaluation is not submitted with visa petitions like H-1B.

The evaluation process enables U.S. institutions to understand the equivalent value of your international qualifications. Original credential evaluation reports showing United States equivalency for academic credentials earned abroad may be provided by accredited four-year colleges, NACES members, or AICE members. With over 30,000 applications received annually by institutions like Georgia Tech from international degree holders, these evaluation services function as essential bridges between different educational systems.

The credential evaluation process is required for various purposes including immigration applications, employment verification, and educational pursuits in the United States. This guide provides the necessary information about obtaining proper evaluation of your foreign credentials.

What is a credential evaluation service?

These organizations analyze foreign academic qualifications and determine their U.S. equivalents. The evaluation process makes your international education comprehensible to American institutions, employers, and immigration authorities.

U.S. employers, universities, and immigration officials face significant challenges when evaluating international education systems. Each country maintains distinct grading scales, degree structures, and academic standards. 

A three-year bachelor’s degree may be standard in one country while considered insufficient in another. Credential evaluation services address this gap by providing standardized assessments that American organizations can rely upon.

These evaluations enable your academic achievements to be recognized and properly valued in the United States. Foreign credentials without proper evaluation may be misunderstood or undervalued, potentially restricting your professional and academic opportunities in the country.

Definition of credential evaluation

Credential evaluation is a systematic assessment process that examines foreign educational qualifications and establishes their U.S. equivalency. This assessment process analyzes multiple aspects of your academic background:

• Authenticity of your documents
• Accreditation status of your institution
• Academic level of your qualification
• Equivalency to U.S. degree standards
• Course content and credit equivalency

Reputable evaluation services employ education specialists with expertise in international education systems. These specialists follow established methodologies to ensure consistent and accurate assessments of foreign academic credentials.

Why foreign degree evaluation is important for U.S. immigration and employment

Credential evaluations provide essential documentation required by USCIS for visa applications. These evaluations determine whether you meet the educational requirements for specific visa categories like H-1B or permanent residency.

U.S. employers require credential evaluations to understand your qualifications accurately. American hiring managers are often unfamiliar with international institutions or degree designations. A credential evaluation translates your academic achievements into terms they recognize, potentially providing you with a competitive advantage in the job market.

Professional licensing boards across various fields require credential evaluations before granting licenses to practice. This requirement applies to healthcare, engineering, accounting, and education fields. These evaluations confirm that your education meets the minimum standards required for professional practice in the United States.

Credential evaluation services provide the objective validation necessary for your international education to be recognized and utilized in the American context.

When Do You Need a Credential Evaluation?

It is important to determine when a credential evaluation is required for your specific circumstances. This decision depends upon the nature of your goals in the United States as well as the requirements of the institutions or authorities you are dealing with. Here are the different scenarios that require credential evaluations.

H-1B, Green Card, and student visa requirements

The U.S. immigration system requires proof that your foreign education meets American standards. For H-1B visa applications, USCIS specifically requires a credential evaluation when your highest degree is from a non-U.S. institution. This evaluation confirms you possess the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree or higher—a fundamental requirement for H-1B eligibility.

Green Card applicants must demonstrate their foreign qualifications match U.S. standards, particularly for employment-based immigration categories. USCIS officers evaluate these reports alongside your education credentials to make informed decisions about your eligibility.

F-1 student visas require credential evaluations to determine your eligibility for admission to U.S. educational programs and establish your academic preparedness. This evaluation becomes especially important for transferring academic credits or seeking advanced standing.

Professional licensing and employment scenarios

State licensing boards require credential evaluations before granting practice authorization across numerous professions. This requirement applies particularly to regulated fields such as:

• Engineering (evaluations against NCEES standards)
• Accounting (for CPA examination and licensure)
• Healthcare professions
• Teaching credentials

U.S. employers often request credential evaluations to understand your qualifications meaningfully. This process gives both you and potential employers confidence that you are qualified for specific positions.

Federal positions strictly require credential evaluations, as the U.S. State Department does not accept foreign educational transcripts directly for government employment.

University admissions and credit transfer

Academic institutions typically require credential evaluations during the admissions process for international students. These evaluations help determine:

• Whether your institution is recognized by your country’s education ministry
• If your coursework aligns with the university’s offerings
• How many transfer credits can be applied toward your degree

Most institutions mandate a detailed course-by-course evaluation rather than a simple transcript translation. Many universities limit the number of international credits they accept, making the evaluation process crucial for academic planning.

The credential evaluation process positions you to pursue your educational, professional, or immigration goals in the United States effectively.

Types of Credential Evaluation Services

It is important to determine the type of credential evaluation report you require for your specific purpose. This decision depends upon your intended use of the evaluation, whether for immigration, employment, or educational purposes. Here are the different types of credential evaluation services available.

1. Document-based evaluation: A document-based evaluation is a basic assessment of your foreign academic credentials that identifies each credential and determines the U.S. equivalent degree level. These reports verify the issuing institution and provide general degree equivalency without analyzing individual courses or calculating grade point averages.

Document-based evaluations are typically used for employment verification, immigration purposes, and situations where detailed course analysis is not required. The fee for this basic service starts from around $85 at many agencies.

2. Course-by-course evaluation: As its name suggests, a course-by-course evaluation provides the most detailed assessment of your academic credentials. This evaluation type is ordered by approximately 69% of customers seeking credential evaluation. Such an evaluation includes the following components:

• Complete list of all courses completed
• U.S. equivalent credits for each course
• U.S. equivalent grades and calculated GPA
• Designation of undergraduate course levels (upper/lower)
• Overall degree equivalency

Course-by-course evaluations are essential for university admissions and professional licensing purposes. Most universities and licensing boards specifically request this evaluation format since a simple translation is not sufficient.

3. Work experience + education evaluation: If you need to combine your educational credentials with professional experience for immigration purposes, then you must apply for a specialized evaluation that utilizes the USCIS “three-for-one rule.” This rule allows three years of specialized work experience to substitute for one year of academic study.

This evaluation type helps professionals without formal U.S.-equivalent degrees qualify for specialty occupations. These assessments are completed by university professors with authority to grant college-level credit for work experience.

4. Foreign diploma and high school certificate evaluation: A foreign diploma and high school certificate evaluation is designed for secondary education credentials. These evaluations help students seeking undergraduate admission or individuals needing verification of secondary education for employment purposes.

Such evaluations can be conducted through either document-based or course-by-course formats. Many evaluation services offer specialized reports for secondary education documents, determining their U.S. equivalency and calculating grades and credits when needed.

Step-by-Step Process to Get Your Degree Evaluated

The credential evaluation process follows a systematic approach that converts your international qualifications into recognizable U.S. equivalents. Each step requires specific documentation and procedures to ensure accurate assessment.

Initial consultation and goal assessment

It is important to identify your specific evaluation purpose before beginning the application process. This decision depends upon whether you require the evaluation for immigration, employment, professional licensing, or education. The type of evaluation report you need is contingent upon this initial determination.

Credential evaluation agencies offer guidance through their websites or customer service teams to help you select the appropriate service. According to IEE, “Not sure where to start your evaluation process? Get started by choosing the evaluation purpose or service that fits your needs”.

You must select a reputable credential evaluation service, ideally one affiliated with NACES (National Association of Credential Evaluation Services) or AICE (Association of International Credentials Evaluators).

Document collection and translation

The evaluation service requires specific documentation for processing your application. At minimum, you must provide:

• Official academic transcripts
• Degree certificates or diplomas
• Course descriptions (for course-by-course evaluations)

Document requirements vary by country and institution. Many services provide country-specific documentation guides on their websites. For instance, ECE states, “Credential evaluation report documentation requirements vary from country to country because what is considered most secure and reasonably accessible for you varies by country or region”.

Certified translations are required for non-English documents. Although WES notes, “In most cases, translation is not necessary for a WES credential evaluation”, they still require translations for documents in languages other than English for U.S. evaluations.

Evaluation and verification

The evaluation process begins with document authentication once you submit your materials. Credible services employ multi-stage verification procedures:

1. Document imaging and initial review
2. Authentication and verification (sometimes requiring secondary verification with issuing institutions)
3. Comparative analysis by specialists with country-specific knowledge

As WES explains, “Our case analysts ensure that all documents are complete and submitted as specified by WES”.

Report issuance and follow-up

Processing times vary by service provider. IEE advertises “3 day standard processing time after receipt and approval of your documents”, while ECE completes “most orders within 5 business days after receiving all required documents”.

You will receive your evaluation report through your chosen delivery method upon completion. Most services offer both electronic and physical copies, with options to send official copies directly to designated recipients like universities or employers.

Required Documents and Submission Guidelines

It is important to understand the documentation requirements for credential evaluation services. This process depends upon the specific requirements of your chosen evaluation agency as well as the nature of your academic credentials.

Transcripts and diplomas

Official academic documents must come directly from your educational institution to ensure authenticity. These records typically include:

• Degree certificates confirming your qualification and graduation date
• Official transcripts showing all completed courses and grades earned
• Program information detailing your course of study

Most evaluation services define “official documents” as those issued in sealed envelopes stamped by your institution. Educational Perspectives notes, “We cannot accept photocopies of academic records or scanned/emailed copies of documents that are sent to us by applicants”. Original documents are generally returned after evaluation, though some services may retain copies.

Certified English translations

For documents not issued in English, certified translations are mandatory. These translations must be exact and word-for-word, capturing all text from the original document. The translations must be clear and legible, allowing evaluators to read all course titles and grades earned. Such translations must be completed by professional translators, not by applicants themselves.

You have several options for obtaining translations. WES explains, “Translations must be completed by a professional translator… affiliated with a university, certified translation agency, or any other professional translation service”. Notarization may be required by certain evaluation providers to verify translator identity.

Digital submission formats and tips

Electronic document submission has become increasingly common among evaluation services. There are three primary methods institutions use to share electronic documents with evaluation services:

1. Online platforms such as Digitary, MyCreds, or OpenCerts
2. Direct transmission channels through secure file transfer protocols
3. Email submission with strict verification requirements

WES advises, “Include your WES reference number when sending electronic documents”. You should avoid assigning PINs or expiry dates to your documents, as these can block evaluator access.

The documentation requirements vary by country and evaluation service. Following country-specific documentation guidelines from your chosen evaluation service prevents delays and ensures proper processing of your credentials.

Cost, Turnaround Time, and Validity

Credential evaluation services charge fees based on the type of report requested and the complexity of the assessment. The processing timeline varies significantly between providers, and validity periods differ depending on the service and receiving institution.

Typical fees and cheapest credential evaluation services

Document-by-document evaluations typically range from $55 to $165, while course-by-course evaluations cost between $150 and $275. Bruscan Educational Information Services offers document-based evaluations for $75, representing one of the most affordable options available. American Education and Translation Services charges $100 for document evaluations and $180 for course-by-course analyses.

ECE’s evaluation packages range from $110 to $275 depending on report complexity. IEE offers document reports for $95 and course reports for $185. The fee structure is contingent upon the depth of analysis required and the specific service provider selected.

→ Our Pricing

Standard and expedited processing times

Processing timeframes vary considerably across evaluation services. WES typically completes evaluations within 2 weeks, extending to 4 weeks during peak periods. ECE processes most orders within 5 business days after receiving all required documents. IEE provides 3-day standard processing, while Arizona International Credential Evaluators requires 15 business days.

Expedited processing options are available for urgent applications. IEE offers Rush (3 days, $50), Special (2 days, $100), and Same-Day service ($200). ACEI provides One Business Day and Three Business Days rush options. InCred offers 2-day service for $150 and 5-day service for $75.

How long evaluations remain valid

AAE credential evaluations never expire. The equivalency determination remains permanently valid since your earned credentials do not change over time. Most other services maintain different validity policies. ECE reports remain valid for 5 years from issuance date, after which you must submit a new application and documentation.

Receiving entities maintain authority to determine their own validity timeframes for credential evaluations. Educational Perspectives keeps files active for six months initially, with reactivation requiring a $60 fee if dormant for up to one year. The validity period ultimately depends upon the requirements of your target institution or organization.

What is the best credential evaluation service?

The choice of credential evaluation service depends upon your specific requirements, timeline constraints, and budget considerations. This decision requires assessment of several key factors beyond basic pricing structures.

AAE Evaluations has emerged as a prominent alternative, processing 150,000 cases in its 8-year history. The primary advantage of AAE is processing speed—delivering results in just 2 business days compared to WES’s standard timeline. AAE Evaluations maintains competitive pricing from $55 to $180 for various evaluation types. The service has developed particular expertise in handling H-1B, EB-1, EB-2 NIW, L-1, and O-1 visas, with strong competency in STEM field evaluations.

World Education Services (WES) is North America’s leading credential evaluation service, having provided more than 4 million applicants with evaluations accepted by 2,500+ employers, academic institutions, and regulators. As a NACES founding member with 49 years of experience, WES processes over 200,000 certificates annually. The service charges $182 for document-by-document evaluations and $233-$278 for course-by-course assessments. WES maintains standard processing timelines of 7+ business days.

Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) has built a strong reputation over 45 years, with most orders completed within 5 business days. Their course-by-course evaluation remains their most popular option, chosen by 69% of customers.

Your selection should be based on:

1. Recognition requirements (check if your recipient institution has preferences)
2. Processing speed (standard vs. expedited options)
3. Specialized expertise (some services excel in specific fields or visa types)

NACES or AICE membership verification remains an important quality indicator as most educational institutions, employers, and immigration authorities prefer evaluations from members of these associations. 

WES is expensive but maintains broader institutional recognition, while AAE Evaluations is affordable and offers faster processing, specialized immigration expertise.

Which is better, WES or AAE Evaluations?

The choice between World Education Services (WES) and Academic & AAE Evalutions depends upon your specific requirements and circumstances. Each service offers distinct advantages for different applicant needs.

AAE’s primary advantage lies in processing speed and cost-effectiveness. Standard processing is typically completed within 2 business days, making AAE Evaluations suitable for applicants requiring quick turnaround times. The pricing structure starts considerably lower than WES, making this service accessible for budget-conscious applicants. AAE demonstrates particular expertise with H-1B and EB category visas, plus specialized knowledge in STEM field evaluations.

WES is a founding member of NACES with nearly five decades of experience in credential evaluation. WES evaluations are accepted by thousands of institutions across North America. The service employs meticulous verification processes, though standard processing times average 7+ business days. WES maintains broader institutional recognition, which may be beneficial if you are targeting prestigious universities or employers.

Document submission requirements differ between the two services. WES typically requires official documents sent directly from your educational institution. AAE Evaluations may offer more flexibility in document submission formats.

Your optimal choice depends upon three key factors: your deadline urgency, budget constraints, and the specific requirements of your target institution or employer. If you require fast processing and have budget limitations, AAE Evaluations may be more suitable. 

How much does a credential evaluation cost?

The cost of credential evaluation services is contingent upon several factors. The type of evaluation report determines the primary cost structure—document-by-document evaluations typically range from $55 to $165, while course-by-course evaluations cost between $150 and $275.

Evaluation service providers maintain different pricing structures. AAE Evaluations Services offers document evaluations for $55, making it among the most affordable options. American Education and Translation Services charges $100 for document evaluations and $180 for course-by-course analyses.

Premium service providers charge accordingly. ECE’s evaluation packages range from $110 to $275 depending on report complexity. IEE offers document reports for $95 and course reports for $185.

Expedited processing adds to the base costs:

• IEE’s rush options: 3-day service ($50), 2-day service ($100), and same-day service ($200)
• ACEI provides one-business-day and three-business-day rush options
• InCred offers 2-day service for $150 and 5-day service for $75

Additional fees may apply for supplementary copies, electronic delivery, or direct institutional sending. Your total cost depends on:

• The evaluation type required
• Processing speed needed
• Number of credentials being evaluated
• Special circumstances such as work experience evaluations

Volume discounts may be available for educational institutions or businesses submitting multiple evaluations.

Get Your Foreign Credentials Evaluated for Use in the United States

The United States educational system operates differently from many international structures, making proper credential evaluation necessary for recognition. The U.S. Department of Education does not evaluate international qualifications.

Four main authorities recognize credential evaluations throughout the country: educational institutions, employers, state-level licensing boards, and federal immigration authorities. Each entity maintains distinct requirements and preferences regarding evaluation format.

Human resources departments typically determine which credential evaluation service to use for employment purposes. State licensing boards often specify evaluation procedures for regulated professions like teaching, engineering, or healthcare.

Evaluation agencies require original, official documentation. As one credential evaluator states, “In all instances, original, official documentation will be required when requesting the evaluation”.

Official transcripts must arrive in sealed envelopes directly from your institution or through secure electronic delivery systems like CHESICC, Digitary, or Parchment. Documents not in English require certified, word-for-word translations.

The United States operates on a case-by-case basis, unlike countries with centralized qualification recognition systems. This decentralized approach means evaluation requirements vary significantly depending on your destination institution or employer.

You should always verify specific requirements with your target organization before initiating the evaluation process.

➟ EDUCATION EVALUATION/ACADEMIC EVALUATION/TRANSCRIPTS EVALUATION

Conclusion

The credential evaluation process requires proper documentation and careful selection of an appropriate evaluation service. Your foreign academic qualifications must be assessed by accredited organizations to establish their U.S. equivalency for immigration, employment, or educational purposes.

It is important to select a credential evaluation service that meets your specific requirements. NACES or AICE-accredited providers offer different processing times, costs, and specializations. The type of evaluation you need depends upon the requirements of your target institution or organization. Document-based evaluations are suitable for basic verification, while course-by-course evaluations are required for detailed academic assessment.

Different receiving entities maintain specific evaluation requirements. Universities typically require course-by-course evaluations for credit transfer purposes. Employers may accept document-based assessments for employment verification. Immigration authorities require evaluations that demonstrate U.S. degree equivalency for visa applications.

You should verify the exact evaluation requirements with your target organization before beginning the process. This verification prevents delays and ensures you obtain the correct type of evaluation report. The evaluation process typically takes between 3 to 15 business days, depending on the service provider and processing option selected.

Credential evaluation services provide the necessary documentation to establish the U.S. equivalency of your international academic credentials. These evaluations enable American institutions, employers, and immigration authorities to understand the value of your foreign qualifications within the U.S. educational framework.

FAQs

Q1. How can I get my foreign degree evaluated for use in the United States?

To have your foreign degree evaluated, choose a reputable credential evaluation service accredited by organizations like NACES or AICE. Submit your official academic documents, including transcripts and diplomas, along with certified English translations if necessary. The evaluation service will assess your credentials and provide a report detailing the U.S. equivalent of your foreign qualifications.

Q2. What is the typical cost of a credential evaluation?

The cost of a credential evaluation varies depending on the type of evaluation and service provider. Generally, document-by-document evaluations range from $55 to $165, while more detailed course-by-course evaluations cost between $150 and $275. Some services offer expedited options for an additional fee.

Q3. When do I need a credential evaluation?

You’ll need a credential evaluation when applying for U.S. immigration (such as H-1B or Green Card), seeking employment, pursuing further education, or obtaining professional licensing in the United States. Many universities, employers, and licensing boards require foreign credentials to be evaluated to understand their U.S. equivalency.

Q4. How long does the credential evaluation process take?

Processing times vary by service provider and evaluation type. Standard processing can take anywhere from 3 to 15 business days, with some services like AAE Evaluations taking up to 3 business days. Expedited options are available for an additional fee, with some providers offering same-day or 2-3 day rush services.

Q5. Are foreign degrees valid in the United States?

Yes, foreign degrees are generally recognized in the United States. However, their equivalency to U.S. degrees must be determined through a credential evaluation process. This evaluation helps U.S. institutions, employers, and immigration authorities understand the value of your international qualifications in the context of the American education system.