In today’s world international credential evaluations play a crucial role in bridging the gap between education systems across the globe. Whether you’re pursuing further education or seeking employment in a new country, understanding the purpose and process of credential evaluations is essential. However, misconceptions about these services can lead to confusion and unrealistic expectations. In this blog we’ll debunk the top five myths about international credential evaluations and shed light on what these services really offer.
As a trusted leader in the field, ECE® has been providing reliable credential evaluations for almost 45 years, helping individuals achieve their academic and professional goals. Learn more about why ECE® is a top choice for credential evaluations.
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Myth 1: Credential Evaluation Services Will Reissue a New Diploma or Transcript
Truth:
Credential evaluations do not issue new diplomas or transcripts; they assess existing documents.
Further Explanation:
Many believe that credential evaluation services provide new diplomas or transcripts as part of their assessment process. However, ECE provides reports that assess and interpret existing educational credentials to determine their equivalency in the U.S. or Canadian education systems. These evaluations do not replace or replicate diplomas but instead offer an assessment that converts foreign credentials into terms understandable by institutions, professional licensing boards, and employers in the U.S. and Canada. This process helps facilitate educational and professional opportunities without issuing new academic records. For more information, visit the Documentation Requirements and Individual FAQs pages at ECE.org.
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Myth 2: Once I Get a Credential Evaluation, It Will Be Accepted Everywhere
Truth:
Not all institutions and employers accept every credential evaluation.
Further Explanation:
There's a misconception that a single credential evaluation report is universally accepted by all institutions and employers, regardless of their specific requirements. While ECE® evaluations are widely recognized and respected, acceptance is not guaranteed everywhere. Each institution or employer may have specific criteria for accepting credential evaluations, and it's essential to verify acceptance policies with the organizations you're applying to. Our FAQ mentions the importance of checking with institutions to ensure they accept evaluations from ECE. Additionally, some institutions may have preferences for specific report types or require additional documentation.
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Myth 3: Evaluating Credentials Is a Time-Consuming & Tedious Process
Truth:
Credential evaluations can be completed efficiently and quickly.
Further Explanation:
The credential evaluation process is often perceived as lengthy and cumbersome, leading many to believe that obtaining an evaluation report takes a significant amount of time and effort. However, ECE® has optimized its processes to ensure that evaluations are completed efficiently without compromising on quality or thoroughness. Our team of experienced evaluators conducts thorough research to ensure accuracy and consistency in every report. Additionally, ECE® has a robust system for managing data, which allows for quick reference and comparison. This system, combined with the deep expertise of our evaluators, ensures that each evaluation is accurate, consistent, and reflective of the latest educational standards. For those needing faster results, rush services are available. You can find more information on the efficiency of ECE's processes by visiting our Credential Evaluation FAQ.
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Myth 4: The Credential Evaluation Report Is Valid Indefinitely
Truth:
The validity of credential evaluation reports will vary depending on the policies of the independent credential evaluation agency.
Further Explanation:
Some individuals believe that once they have a credential evaluation report, it remains valid indefinitely, without the need for updates or re-evaluation. However, ECE® reports are only available for ordering copies within five years of issuance. After this time, individuals will need to request a new evaluation if additional copies are needed. This ensures that reports remain aligned with any changes in educational standards or institutional requirements over time. It's crucial to check with specific institutions or employers about their policies regarding the acceptance of older evaluations to ensure continued relevance and acceptance. Additional details can be found on the ECE® Foreign Transcript Evaluation Process and Individual FAQs pages.
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Myth 5: Getting a Credential Evaluation Guarantees Employment
Truth:
A credential evaluation does not guarantee employment but supports employability.
Further Explanation:
There is a misconception that obtaining a credential evaluation automatically ensures job placement, leading some to believe it is the key factor in securing employment. ECE® evaluations provide a thorough assessment of international educational credentials, converting them into U.S. or Canadian equivalencies. This process aids in the recognition of foreign education by employers and institutions, enhancing employability. However, employment decisions are influenced by various factors, including relevant experience, skills, and market demand. ECE® reports are advisory, and while they are a valuable tool in job applications, they do not ensure job placement. The Terms and Conditions page emphasizes that reports are non-binding and advisory, with the final decisions of employment made by the potential employer.
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Ready to Take the Next Step?
International credential evaluations are invaluable tools in the global education and job markets. By debunking these myths, we've clarified what these services truly offer and how they can support your academic and professional goals. Whether you’re planning to study or work in a new country, understanding the role of credential evaluations will help you navigate the process more effectively. For trusted credential evaluation services, contact ECE®.