An educational credential assessment confirms the Canadian equivalency of a foreign degree, diploma or certificate. For Express Entry, the report must be issued for immigration purposes by an organization designated by IRCC.
Know when an ECA is required
Federal Skilled Worker applicants with foreign education generally need an ECA for program eligibility. Other Express Entry candidates may need one to claim points for foreign education. A Canadian credential does not need an ECA, and an assessment for employment or licensing may not be valid for immigration.
Choose the correct designated organization
IRCC lists general organizations and separate professional bodies for certain regulated professions. Follow the organization's document and delivery instructions exactly. Processing times, fees and accepted issuing institutions differ, so compare them before ordering.
Decide which credentials to assess
In many cases, the highest credential is sufficient, but claiming points for two or more credentials usually requires an assessment for each credential used. A professional degree or occupation-specific assessment can follow special rules. Wait for the actual equivalency before predicting points.
Enter and preserve the report correctly
Use the ECA report number, issue date, organization and equivalency exactly as shown. Express Entry ECAs are generally valid for five years and must remain valid when the profile and permanent residence application require them. Keep the full report and proof of any updated version.
Free checklist
- Confirm whether your program needs an ECA
- Select an IRCC-designated organization
- Order an immigration-purpose report
- Assess every credential needed for claimed points
- Follow document-delivery instructions
- Enter the report details exactly
- Track the five-year validity period
Frequently asked questions
Do Canadian credentials need an ECA?
No. An ECA is used for foreign education; Canadian credentials are supported with the Canadian education documents requested.
Is an employment ECA valid for Express Entry?
Not necessarily. Express Entry requires an assessment issued for immigration purposes by an IRCC-designated organization or professional body.
How long is an Express Entry ECA valid?
An ECA is generally valid for five years from its issue date and must be valid when required by the profile and application.
Official sources
Rules, forms and intake policies can change. Every case depends on its complete facts and evidence; this guide does not guarantee eligibility, an invitation or approval.