If you’re planning to immigrate to Canada, particularly through the Express Entry program or other immigration streams, getting an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is often mandatory. An ECA evaluates the education you’ve completed outside of Canada to determine its equivalency to Canadian standards. This assessment is crucial for increasing your points under the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), especially if your education plays a significant role in your immigration profile.
Here’s a step-by-step guide for applicants in India on how to apply for an ECA as part of your Canadian immigration journey.
1. Choose a Designated ECA Organization
The Government of Canada has approved several organizations that are authorized to provide ECAs. These include:
- World Education Services (WES)
- International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS)
- International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES)
- Comparative Education Service (CES)
- International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS)
World Education Services (WES) is the most popular choice among applicants from India, given its efficient online system and faster processing times. However, the choice of organization depends on your profession and preferences, especially if you are a specialized professional like a pharmacist or physician.
2. Identify the Documents You’ll Need
Indian applicants typically need to submit the following documents for an ECA:
- Degree Certificates (e.g., Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD)
- Mark Sheets/Transcripts from your university for all completed courses
Ensure you have certified copies of these documents, and the official transcripts need to be directly provided by your university in a sealed envelope. It’s important that the transcripts are stamped and signed by the institution registrar.
Tip: It’s best to contact your university in advance to verify their process for issuing sealed transcripts, especially if they allow you to request transcripts to be sent directly to the ECA organization.
3. How to Request Transcripts from Indian Universities
Obtaining transcripts from universities in India can vary depending on the institution. Follow these steps:
- Contact the Registrar’s Office or relevant department at your university.
- Submit the required form or application along with any applicable fees.
- Ensure the transcripts are placed in a sealed and signed envelope.
Some universities may have online portals where you can request your transcripts. Make sure that the transcripts meet the document requirements of the ECA organization you’re applying to, such as being sent directly from the university to the ECA agency if needed.
Important Note: If your university only provides transcripts in physical form, it’s essential to send them via reliable international courier services like DHL, FedEx, or UPS to ensure they reach the ECA organization securely.
4. Create an Online Account with Your ECA Organization
Once your documents are ready, create an account with the chosen ECA provider. For instance, if you are applying through World Education Services (WES):
- Visit www.wes.org and select “Apply Now.”
- Choose the ECA for IRCC option for immigration purposes.
- Complete the online application by entering your personal details, education history, and uploading required documents.
Each ECA organization has specific guidelines for Indian applicants, so carefully follow the instructions to avoid delays.
5. Submit Your Documents
Depending on the organization, you will need to submit:
- Degree certificates – either digitally uploaded or couriered.
- Official transcripts – sent directly by your university to the ECA organization.
Make sure you use the reference number provided by the ECA organization when submitting your documents to help the organization match your documents with your application.
6. Pay the Required Fees
Each ECA organization charges different fees for their assessment services. On average, the costs range between CAD 200 – CAD 300, excluding additional courier and administrative charges. For example:
- WES charges approximately CAD 220 for the ECA process.
- IQAS and CES have similar pricing structures.
Payments can be made online through credit cards or other available options on the organization’s platform.
7. Processing Times and Waiting Period
Processing times for ECAs vary. WES, for instance, typically takes around 35 business days once all documents are received. Other organizations such as IQAS may take up to 20 weeks. Delays can occur if your documents are incomplete or if the ECA organization needs additional information from your educational institution.
8. Receive Your ECA Report
Once your assessment is complete, the organization will send the ECA report electronically to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). You will also receive a physical copy, which you should retain for your records.
The report will provide a Canadian equivalency for your degree. For example, a three-year Bachelor’s degree from India is often considered equivalent to a three-year Canadian Bachelor’s degree.
9. Submit Your ECA with Your Express Entry Profile
Once you have the completed ECA report, enter your ECA reference number into your Express Entry profile or permanent residency application. This will allow IRCC to validate your educational credentials and assign points accordingly.
Key Considerations for Applicants from India
- Validity of ECA: Your ECA is valid for 5 years from the date of issue.
- Multiple Degrees: If you have multiple degrees (e.g., Bachelor’s and Master’s), it’s advisable to get an ECA for each to maximize your points under the CRS.
- Document Handling: Ensure that all documents meet the ECA organization’s requirements. Any discrepancy can result in delays or rejection.
Conclusion
Applying for an ECA is an essential step for Indian nationals aspiring to move to Canada. With proper preparation and attention to detail, you can streamline the process and improve your chances of a successful immigration application.
If you need expert guidance on preparing your ECA application or your broader Canadian immigration process, contact Visa Vyom Immigration today. Our experienced RCIC team is here to help you navigate the complexities of Canadian immigration with ease and confidence!
