Credential Evaluation with ECE(Educational Credential Evaluators)

What is Educational Credential Evaluators/What is ECE?

Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) is a nonprofit organisation that specialises in evaluating foreign academic credentials to determine their equivalence in the United States and Canada. Founded in 1980 by James S. Frey and based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, ECE provides evaluation reports that help colleges, universities, employers, and licensing boards understand and recognise foreign academic qualifications.

ECE's primary function is to compare academic and professional degrees earned in other countries with those recognised in the U.S. and Canada. This evaluation process is essential for individuals seeking admission to educational institutions, employment opportunities, or professional licensure in these two countries. 

The ECE is a charter member of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES), which sets professional standards for credential evaluation services in the U.S. This affiliation underscores their commitment to maintaining high ethical standards and quality in their evaluations.

In summary, Educational Credential Evaluators play a crucial role in facilitating the recognition of international educational credentials, therefore supporting individuals in their pursuit of education and employment opportunities in the United States and Canada.

Which is better, WES or ECE?

When comparing World Education Services (WES) and Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE), you should know that both organizations are reputable and serve similar functions in evaluating foreign educational credentials. However, there are key differences that may influence which is better for a specific individual's needs.

1. Recognition and Acceptance:

• WES: Widely recognised by many U.S. and Canadian institutions, employers, and immigration authorities. Some universities and licensing boards specifically require WES evaluations.
• ECE: Is also well-regarded and accepted by numerous institutions and employers, but they dont provide credential assessment for immigration purposes. Acceptance of an ECE evaluation can also vary, according to institutions. It is essential to verify with the institution.

2. Processing Time:

• WES: Typically processes evaluations within seven business days after receiving all required documents.
• ECE: Offers an average turnaround of five business days, which may be quicker in some cases.

3. Cost:

• Both organisations offer similar services at comparable prices. However, ECE is known to be cheaper if you are on a budget.

4. Services Offered:

• WES: Provides document-by-document and course-by-course evaluations. They do not offer translation services, however. For all your WES translations, you should get translations from a trusted translation company like Translayte, including any required degree translation.
• ECE: Offers similar evaluation services and, like WES, does not provide translation services. They accept certified translations or regular translations from recognised agencies.

5. Document Requirements:

• WES: Requires official documents sent directly from institutions. They have specific guidelines for translations and may request translated documents in certain cases i.e. If your document is not in English.
• ECE: Also requires official documents but has different submission protocols. ECE may request original documents for certain countries or educational systems. This means you might need to send your actual diploma or academic transcript, not just a copy. For example, if the documentation requirements for your country of study specify 'Original' or 'Official Document issued in a Sealed Envelope,' you must provide these to ECE.

6. User Experience:

• Some users report that WES evaluations result in a higher GPA compared to ECE. However, this can vary based on individual cases.

What type of documents does the ECE evaluate?

Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) assess various educational documents from individuals who have completed studies outside the United States or Canada. The specific documents required depend on the country where the education was obtained and the level of education completed. Generally, ECE evaluates the following types of documents:

1. Diplomas and Certificates: High school diplomas or certificates indicating completion of secondary education, and diplomas or certificates from vocational schools, colleges, or universities.
2. Transcripts and Academic Records: Official transcripts or mark sheets listing courses taken and grades received during high school, and detailed academic records from colleges or universities, including course titles, grades, and credits or hours completed.
3. Professional Qualifications: Certificates or licenses from professional programs, such as nursing or engineering, that may include details of coursework and practical training.

Important Considerations:

• Country-Specific Requirements: Documentation requirements vary by country. ECE provides specific guidelines based on the educational system of each country. It's essential to review these requirements to ensure the correct documents are submitted.
   
• Original Documents: For certain countries, ECE may require original documents or official documents issued in sealed envelopes. Applicants should consult ECE's country-specific documentation requirements to determine if originals are necessary.
   
• Translations: If your documents are not in English, ECE requires translations. This is where requesting quality translations from Translayte comes in.
   
• No work experience evaluation: Please note that ECE does not evaluate work experience; their focus is solely on educational credentials.
   
• Electronic Documents: ECE only accepts electronic documents from verified sources. Applicants should check if their institution can send documents electronically through recognized services.

How to translate your document for ECE Evaluation

1. Navigate to 'ORDER YOUR TRANSLATION' on the Translayte home page.
2. Select ‘Professional Translation’, as this is what ECE requires.
3. Select the source and target languages respectively, i.e. French to English translation.
4. Upload the document(s) you need to be translated. Supported file types: docx, doc, xlsx, pptx, txt, xliff, csv, xml, html, pdf, json, bmp, pnm, png, jfif, jpeg, tiff & gif.
5. Select the type of certification you require; apostille or notarisation (if applicable).
6. If you want expedited services, select that option. Provide any extra instructions after this.
7. Click "PROCEED TO ORDER"
8. Make the payment securely online. Once your order is placed, our team will assign it to a professional translator, and you'll receive the translated document within 12-24 hours.
9. Once your document is translated, you can log in to your ECE account through the ECE login channel to upload your documents and track your evaluation progress.

How much does an ECE certification cost?

Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) offers several types of credential evaluation reports, each with its pricing:

• General Report: Provides the U.S. equivalent of each credential without evaluating individual courses or grades. Cost: $100.
• General Report with Grade Average: Includes the U.S. equivalent and a grade average for each university-level credential. Cost: $130.
• Course by Course Report: Details each course with U.S. credit and grade equivalents, including a grade average. Cost: $195.
• High School and University Level Course by Course Report: Similar to the Course by Course Report but includes both high school and university-level courses. Cost: $235.
• Subject Analysis Report: Provides specific information regarding course content as required by the referring institution or licensing board. Cost: $275.

Additional services include:

• Rush Service: Guaranteed 5-business-day processing for an extra $80.
• Additional Copies: $30 per copy.
• Delivery Options: Standard and expedited mailing services are available at varying costs.