If you’re planning to apply for an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) through World Education Services (WES) for immigration or study purposes, it’s important to understand the specific document requirements that apply to your situation. Properly preparing your documents can help expedite the process and avoid any delays in your application.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the essential document checklist, the required steps for submission, and key considerations to ensure that your ECA evaluation is processed smoothly.

Key Information Before You Start

Before you submit any documents for your ECA application, it’s crucial to read through these important points:

1. Submit Only Your Highest Completed Credential:
   The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requires applicants to submit only their highest completed credentials for evaluation. Be sure to review the specific instructions based on your academic history. Sending additional documents that are not requested may cause delays.
2. Documents for Specific Credentials:
   • Indian Master’s Degree or Postgraduate Diploma:
     If you hold a Master’s degree or a postgraduate diploma from India, you must submit your Bachelor’s degree documents as well. WES will not complete the evaluation without these.
     • Exceptions: There are five exceptions for individuals holding a Master of Education, Master of Engineering, Master of Philosophy, Master of Technology, or Master of Computer Applications degrees. These applicants are not required to submit Bachelor’s degree documents.
   • Doctorate (PhD):
     If you hold a PhD, you do not need to submit your Bachelor’s or Master’s degree for evaluation. The assessment will be based solely on your doctoral degree.
3. What Not to Submit:
   WES does not evaluate the following:
   • Primary or Elementary School Certificates
   • Non-academic credentials (e.g., Microsoft Office Training, etc.)
   • Professional or career training certifications
   • Ayurveda, Unani, and Siddha Indigenous medical system studies
4. Document Verification:
   WES reserves the right to verify all documents submitted for evaluation. If verification is required, they will contact your institution or other authorized source. The evaluation process will proceed once the verification is complete.
5. Do Not Send Original Documents:
   WES does not require original documents for the evaluation. All documents submitted will be securely destroyed once the evaluation is completed, and they will not be returned to the applicant.

Checklist: What Documents Do You Need to Submit?

To ensure your ECA evaluation goes smoothly, review the following required documents and steps:

1. Degree Certificate (Final or Provisional)

• What it is: A clear, legible photocopy of your final or provisional degree certificate.
• What you need to do:
  Upload a clear copy of this document to your WES account.

2. Statement of Marks (University Issued and Attested)

• What it is: This is an official document issued by your university or the institution conducting exams, listing all subjects/papers taken along with the marks earned for each year of study. The statement must also include your university student identification number.
• What you need to do:
  There are three ways to submit this document:
  • Option 1: Request your institution to digitally attest and send your marks statement directly to WES.
  • Option 2: If digital submission is not possible, have your institution send the document directly to WES in a sealed envelope, stamped or signed across the back flap by an authorized officer.
  • Option 3: If your institution gives you the document, it must be in a sealed envelope, and it must be unsigned or unstamped for WES to accept it.

Important Notes:

• WES only accepts documents attested by authorized institutional officials (such as the Controller of Examinations or Registrar’s Office).
• WES will not accept documents sent by students themselves, third-party agents, or non-official channels.

How to Send Your Documents

1. Include Your WES Reference Number

Before sending any documents, complete the WES application process and obtain your unique reference number. This number must be written on each document you submit. Failure to include this number may result in processing delays.

2. Do Not Send Original Documents

Remember, WES does not require original documents. All documents submitted for evaluation are not returned and will be destroyed after use. Always submit photocopies of your original documents.

3. Ask About Digital Document Submission

To expedite your evaluation, ask your institution if they have a digital partnership with WES. Digital submissions are faster and can help reduce the overall processing time. If your institution can send documents electronically, encourage them to do so.

4. Pay the Shipping Charges

If your institution sends the documents through a courier service, pay the shipping charges. WES is not responsible for any unpaid shipping charges or customs fees.

Final Thoughts: Getting Your ECA Report

Submitting the correct documents to WES is essential to obtaining a timely and accurate Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report. Review the specific requirements based on your credentials and academic background to avoid unnecessary delays. Once WES completes your evaluation, you will receive a detailed report that can be used for immigration, educational applications, or employment purposes.

By carefully following these document submission guidelines, you will ensure a smooth and efficient process with WES.

Need Help With Your ECA?

If you’re unsure about which documents to submit or how to navigate the process, our team of immigration consultants is here to help. Contact Visas Abroad Services LLP for expert assistance in preparing your ECA application and ensuring your documents are correctly submitted to WES.