Importance of ECA (Educational Credential Assessment) under Express Entry System
If you’re planning to immigrate to Canada through the Express Entry system, one of the most important early steps is getting an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA). Without an ECA, your foreign education may not be recognized in your Express Entry profile, and you could miss out on valuable Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points.
Why is ECA Important?
Proof of Your Education: An ECA shows that your foreign degree, diploma, or certificate is valid and equal to a completed Canadian credential.
CRS Points: Your education level directly affects your CRS score. The higher your recognized education, the more points you earn.
Eligibility Requirement: For the Federal Skilled Worker Program (one of the three programs managed by Express Entry), an ECA is mandatory unless you have completed your education in Canada.
Employment Opportunities: Having an ECA also helps potential employers in Canada understand your educational qualifications better.
Note: You only need an ECA for your highest completed credential. However, if you have multiple degrees, sometimes assessing more than one credential can help maximize your CRS points.
Which Organizations Are Approved for ECA under Express Entry?
The Canadian government has designated specific organizations to provide valid ECAs for immigration purposes. These are:
For General Applicants:
Comparative Education Service (CES) – University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies
International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS)
International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS)
International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES)
For Specialized Fields:
Medical Professionals (Doctors): Must get their ECA through the Medical Council of Canada (MCC).
Pharmacists (if they need a license to practice): Must get their ECA through the Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada (PEBC).
Each of these organizations has slightly different processes, fees, and timelines. It’s important to choose the one that best fits your profile and needs.
How Canadizen Immigration Consulting Can Help
At Canadizen Immigration Consulting, we guide you through every step of your Express Entry process, including choosing the right ECA organization. We help:
Determine if you should assess multiple credentials.
Fill out the application correctly.
Communicate with the assessing organization if needed.
Plan strategically to boost your CRS score.
Our experienced team ensures your ECA process is smooth, fast, and aligned with your Express Entry goals.
Ready to start your Canadian immigration journey? Contact Canadizen Immigration Consulting today for a free assessment and personalized guidance 🎯
