International Credential Evaluation or Equivalency

Globalisation is changing lives and economies nearly everywhere. The mobility of people across international borders to study or to settle in a different country with the intention of establishing a new residence is on rise. As per UIS, In 2020, there were over 6.3 million international students and as per International Organization for Migration (IOM), there were 281 million? international migrants (3.6% of world population) in 2020.?

With nearly 6.3 million study abroad students worldwide and 281 millions of immigrants escaping conflict or in search of a better life, international credential evaluation has never been more important and often requires credential assessments to determine the recognition and comparability of their educational qualifications in the destination country. Equivalency assessments are crucial for individuals who wish to study or work in a different country, as they help establish the value and relevance of their educational credentials in the new educational or professional context.

A foreign credential evaluation is similar to currency exchange, where the qualification credential obtained in one education? system is converted to the qualification of another education system.?

By conducting equivalency assessments, educational institutions, employers, and immigration authorities can make informed decisions regarding the recognition and suitability of foreign educational qualifications in the context of the destination country's education system, employment market, or immigration policies.

Here's how equivalency assessments are related to the migration of people and students:

Education Admission: Students who wish to pursue higher education in a foreign country may need to undergo an equivalency assessment of their previous educational qualifications.?

Employment Opportunities: Individuals seeking employment in a different country may also need equivalency assessments of their educational qualifications. Employers often require job applicants to provide evidence of the comparability of their foreign qualifications to the local standards and requirements. Equivalency assessments help employers determine the suitability and competency of candidates for specific job positions.

Professional Licensure: Certain professions and regulated occupations require individuals to hold specific qualifications or licences to practise. For migrants looking to work in such professions, equivalency assessments play a crucial role in determining the recognition of their foreign credentials and the eligibility for professional licensure or certification in the destination country.

Immigration and Visa Requirements: Equivalency assessments are often required as part of immigration processes. Immigration authorities may request evidence of the comparability of educational qualifications to assess an individual's eligibility for immigration programs, visa categories, or specific immigration requirements. Equivalency assessments help immigration authorities evaluate an individual's educational background and determine their suitability for immigration purposes.

Each country has its own system and requirements for evaluating foreign credentials. The criteria and recognition of educational qualifications can differ significantly from one country to another.

There are various credential evaluation agencies around the world that assess and validate foreign educational credentials. These agencies vary in terms of their recognition, evaluation methods, and country-specific expertise.

Credential evaluation agencies typically consider factors such as the educational institution's accreditation, the duration and level of study, the curriculum, grading systems, and any additional requirements. They compare the foreign credentials to the education system in the country where the evaluation is being conducted.

The outcome of a credential evaluation may include an equivalency statement, a grade conversion, a credit transfer, or a detailed report outlining the educational background and qualifications of the individual.

The demand for credential evaluation services is influenced by factors such as international student mobility, immigration trends, and the global labour market.

“Credential evaluation is only advice, not a decision.”