How to Apply for WES Evaluation in Canada

Created: Feb 27, 2024 | Updated: Feb 28, 2024

The World Education Services (WES) evaluation in Canada is pivotal for individuals aiming to further their education or career in Canada. This evaluation is essential as it accurately assesses the international educational credentials of an individual, ensuring they are recognised appropriately within the Canadian education and employment framework.

The importance of a correct application procedure cannot be overstated, especially since it is the determinant of your success or not. Alongside a correct application, is the need for accurate document translation for foreigners to English or French language. Missteps in the application process or inaccuracies in document translation can lead to delays or rejection of the WES evaluation application. Therefore, understanding the process, including the meticulous translation and submission of educational documents, is crucial for a successful evaluation by WES Canada.

Documents Required for WES Evaluation in Canada

For a comprehensive WES evaluation, you must submit a complete set of documents, depending on whether you are applying for immigration or education purposes. IRCC asks applicants to submit only their highest completed credential for an ECA (Educational Credential Assessment - required for people who are applying for immigration reasons). These typically includes academic transcripts, degree certificates, and diploma supplements directly from the institutions you attended. It is extremely important to provide WES with accurate, complete information that they can process (information has to be in English or French) because incomplete or inaccurate submissions can lead to delays or the need for additional documentation, complicating the evaluation process. Furthermore, if you are seeking immigration to Canada, WES evaluation acts as a cornerstone, verifying your educational credentials as part of the immigration requirements. This evaluation is vital in demonstrating the equivalency of your foreign education to Canadian standards, often a prerequisite for various immigration programs.

The specific documents required for your WES evaluation in Canada can vary depending on your country of education and the type of education (e.g., secondary, post-secondary) you have completed. However, a general list of documents that are commonly requested includes:

Degree Certificate(s): This includes certificates for all completed degrees (e.g., Bachelor’s, Master’s, Ph.D.). You need to provide a copy of the original certificate along with its certified translation if it is not in English or French.
Transcript(s): Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. Transcripts should list all subjects taken and grades received for each term or semester. Transcripts must be sent directly from the institutions or in sealed envelopes if provided to you for submission.
Secondary Education Documents: If applying for undergraduate study or if specifically requested, you may need to provide your high school diploma and transcript.
Translation of Documents: For documents not issued in English or French, certified translations are required. Translations must be complete, accurate, and attached to the original document.
Course-by-Course Evaluation Request: If you are seeking a detailed evaluation (e.g., for education, employment, or licensure purposes), you may need to provide course descriptions or syllabi, especially for higher education credentials. This is not always mandatory but can be requested by WES for a more detailed assessment.
Identification Documents: A photocopy of your passport, national ID card, or birth certificate may be required for identity verification purposes.

What are the Guidelines for Document Translation?

This step is crucial as it ensures that the evaluators at WES can fully understand the academic achievements and credentials presented. The translation must be performed by certified translation services, which guarantee that the translations are not only accurate but also meet the stringent requirements set by WES. These services are adept at handling educational documents, and understanding the nuances and specific terminologies involved.

The importance of language accuracy in translation is paramount, as any discrepancy can lead to misunderstandings regarding your qualifications. This accuracy extends beyond mere words to include the correct representation of grades, course titles, and the nature of the qualifications, ensuring that the evaluation by WES is based on a faithful representation of the applicant's educational background.

Steps to Ensure a Correct WES Canada Application

Step-by-Step Process of Filling Out the WES Application Form Accurately

Begin by creating an account on the WES website. Ensure that your contact information is accurate, as this will be crucial for receiving updates about your evaluation.
Choose the type of evaluation that best suits your needs—be it for education, immigration, or employment purposes in Canada. Ensure you understand the differences to select the most appropriate one.
Enter your educational history in detail. This includes all post-secondary institutions attended, degrees earned, and dates of attendance. Accuracy is paramount to avoid delays.
Carefully review the list of required documents. WES provides specific instructions based on the country of education and the type of documents being submitted. Follow these instructions meticulously to ensure your documents meet WES standards.
Pay the required fee for your evaluation type. Keep in mind that fees may vary based on the services selected and ensure that your payment method is accepted by WES.
Review your application thoroughly before submission. Confirm that all information is correct and that all necessary documents have been included or are in the process of being sent directly by your educational institutions.

Document Authentication for WES Submission

Beyond accurate translation, WES, sometimes requires that certain documents be authenticated to verify their legitimacy. This may involve notarization or other legal authentication processes, depending on the country of origin. The specifics can vary, but the goal remains the same: to provide WES with documents that are beyond reproach in terms of their authenticity. It is important that you closely follow the guidelines provided by WES for document authentication, as failure to comply with these requirements can lead to delays or the rejection of the application for evaluation.

How Much Does WES Evaluation in Canada Cost?

The WES evaluation fee in Canada varies depending on the type of evaluation required and the speed of service chosen. You need to consider these costs early in the application process and plan accordingly. The fee structure is designed to cover the detailed assessment process and ensures that each application is handled with the care and precision it deserves. The WES evaluation fee in Canada ranges between $150 - $248.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is WES Required for a Canada Student Visa?

While not always mandatory, a WES evaluation can be instrumental in proving the equivalency of your foreign educational credentials to Canadian standards.

Is Translation Mandatory for all Documents, and how can I Ensure Accuracy?

Translation is mandatory for documents not in English or French. Ensuring accuracy involves using certified translation services with a track record of accuracy and reliability.

How Long Does the WES Canada Evaluation Process Take?

The timeline for a WES Canada evaluation can vary but typically, it takes seven (7) business days after WES receives all your required documents for the evaluation to occur. This timeline only applies to their standard Document-by-Document (DxD) or Course-by-Course (CxC) evaluation reports.

Can I use a Translation Service of my Choice for WES Documents?

Yes, as long as the service provides certified translations that meet WES standards.

What Steps Should I Follow for Document Authentication in the WES Process?

Follow the specific instructions provided by WES for your country of education to ensure your documents are correctly authenticated. Do not get authentication, if WES does not request it.

What if There are Discrepancies or Missing Information in my Educational Documents for WES?

It's crucial to address these issues before submitting your application by obtaining the correct documents or official explanations for any discrepancies. However, if there are discrepancies, reach out to WES on their website to enquire about the next course of action. WES has no deadline and will keep your file open until they receive all documents.