Introduction: Your degree, your key to success in the U.S.
Imagine leveraging your foreign education to unlock opportunities in the United States. Credential evaluation is a vital step for those looking to work, study, or practice a profession in the country. However, the process can seem overwhelming without proper guidance.
In this article, we provide a comprehensive, chronological guide to help you effectively evaluate your degree. From basic requirements to practical tips, you’ll find everything you need to know.
1. Research Requirements Based on Your Degree Type
Before starting, determine the purpose of your credential evaluation. Not all degrees require the same type of assessment.
Common evaluation types:
- Educational: To pursue further academic studies.
- Professional: To work in fields like medicine, law, or engineering.
First step:
Check if your profession requires specific licenses in the U.S. For instance, doctors need to validate their degrees through the Educational Commission for Foreign Medical Graduates (ECFMG).
Pro Tip:
Visit professional associations’ websites related to your field to ensure compliance with specific requirements.
2. Select an Accredited Evaluation Institution
Your evaluation must be conducted by an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to be valid.
Popular organizations:
- World Education Services (WES).
- Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE).
- Foreign Credentials Service of America (FCSA).
Average cost:
- General evaluation: $100 to $200.
- Detailed evaluation: $200 to $400, depending on the required detail.
Pro Tip:
Check the requirements of the institution or employer requesting the evaluation. Some prefer specific evaluations by WES or ECE.
3. Gather All Required Documentation
Having all necessary documents ready will prevent delays in the process.
Commonly required documents:
- Certified copies of diplomas.
- Academic transcripts (official grades).
- Valid ID (passport or national ID).
- Certified translations into English (if documents are in another language).
Important:
Some evaluators require documents to be sent directly by your university.
Pro Tip:
For translations, work with translators certified by the American Translators Association (ATA).
4. Start the Evaluation Process
Complete the online form from your chosen evaluation institution and pay the associated fees.
Estimated wait time:
- Basic evaluations: 7-10 business days.
- Detailed evaluations: 2-4 weeks.
Pro Tip:
Request digital delivery of results to expedite receipt by universities or employers.
5. Understand Your Evaluation Results
The evaluation report will compare your international credentials to the U.S. education system. This may include:
- Degree equivalency (e.g., bachelor’s or master’s).
- Breakdown of credits and GPA (grade point average).
Practical example:
If you earned a bachelor’s degree in Colombia, the report might state it’s equivalent to a “Bachelor’s Degree” in the U.S.
Pro Tip:
Keep both digital and physical copies of the report for future use.
6. Apply for Additional Recognition if Necessary
If your goal is to work in a regulated profession (like medicine, teaching, or architecture), you may need to complete additional steps, such as:
- Taking specific exams (e.g., USMLE for doctors).
- Enrolling in credentialing programs or residencies.
Pro Tip:
Consult the regulatory body for your profession to understand additional requirements.
7. Optimize Your Resume and Professional Networks
Once your credentials are evaluated, tailor your resume to the standard U.S. format and use platforms like LinkedIn to showcase your achievements.
Pro Tip:
Include key industry terms in English that match your professional field, increasing your visibility to recruiters.
Conclusion: Build Your Path to Success
Credential evaluation in the U.S. might seem complex, but with proper planning, it’s a manageable process. As Benjamin Franklin once said, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” With your degree validated, you’ll be one step closer to achieving your goals in this country.