Unlocking Opportunities: The power of credential evaluation reports for newcomers in Canada

Estimated reading time: 2.5 minutes

In summary:

• A credential evaluation report is an official document that assesses and compares educational credentials obtained outside of Canada to the Canadian education system.
  
  
• They can bridge the gap between an immigrant or refugee’s international education and the Canadian labour market, unlocking doors of opportunity that may have otherwise remained closed.
  
  
• With a recognized credential evaluation report in hand, skilled immigrants and refugees gain a competitive edge in their job search.  

As Canada continues to embrace diversity and welcome a record number immigrants and refugees from around the world, it is crucial to address the challenges faced by skilled individuals seeking to rebuild their professional lives in a new country.  

One of the most significant hurdles these newcomers encounter is the recognition of their foreign education and professional qualifications. Countless highly skilled immigrants and refugees arrive in Canada, armed with impressive credentials and valuable expertise, only to find themselves struggling to find suitable employment due to the lack of recognition. However, there is a solution: credential evaluation reports. In this article, we will explore the benefits of obtaining credential evaluation reports as an internationally-educated immigrant or refugee in Canada, and how these reports can be a valuable tool in overcoming the barriers to credential recognition. 

For skilled immigrants and refugees, the process of integrating into the Canadian labour market is often marked by frustration and disappointment. Despite possessing the necessary qualifications and experience, many find themselves unable to secure employment in their respective fields. A significant contributing factor to this struggle lies in the varying educational standards and accreditation systems across countries. What may be considered a highly regarded degree or certification in one nation might not carry the same weight in Canada. This discrepancy can leave newcomers feeling disheartened, undervalued, and uncertain about their professional prospects.

That's where credential evaluation reports come into play. 

A credential evaluation report is an official document that assesses and compares the educational credentials obtained outside of Canada to the Canadian education system. This evaluation is conducted by designated organizations authorized by Canadian regulatory bodies. These organizations carefully review academic transcripts, syllabi, and other supporting documents to determine the equivalency of foreign education to Canadian standards. The resulting report provides a comprehensive evaluation of the educational qualifications, highlighting their equivalency, educational level, and specialization, making it easier for employers, educational institutions, and regulatory bodies to understand and validate the skills and knowledge possessed by newcomers. 

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The significance of credential evaluation reports cannot be overstated. They bridge the gap between a newcomer's international education and the Canadian labour market, unlocking doors of opportunity that may have otherwise remained closed. The Windmill Microlending blog connected with Claire Zheng, Associate Director, Client Relations at World Education Services, a Windmill partner and social enterprise focusing on credential evaluation services. 

Windmill partner, World Education Services, has provided credential evaluation, reporting and assessment services to thousands of immigrants and refugees across North America.

WES' Zheng shares three benefits to immigrants and refugees of credential evaluation reports. 

Benefit #1: Recognition for your academic achievements in Canada 

Zheng says this is the main reason internationally-educated immigrants and refugees seek credential evaluation reports. It demonstrates to Canadian employers or academic institutions proof of your previous education and training and indicates to these organizations that your credentials have been verified by an authoritative third-party. 

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WATCH: Claire Zheng of World Education Services summarizes the three benefits of getting a credential evaluation report for skilled immigrants and refugees.

Benefit #2: You may need one 

Not only are credential evaluation reports valuable but they also may be a requirement of employment or enrolment at a Canadian educational institution. Some Canadian regulatory bodies that approve licensure for professionals like nurses, engineers, lawyers or physiotherapists may also require these reports to enable you to advance through the licensure process. It is important to ensure you seek a credential evaluation report from a reputable organization with a proven track record of delivering required documents. Some regulatory bodies or educational institutions may have preferred credential evaluation report organizations that they recommend or exclusively work with. 

Benefit #3: It can save you time and money 

In choosing to complete a credential evaluation report, you can save yourself time and money by showing a potential Canadian employer you already have the skills and training you need to successfully do the job you’ve applied for. The evaluation report may demonstrate to a regulator or employer that you don’t need further training or education and that you are ready to work in Canada.   

With a recognized credential evaluation report in hand, skilled immigrants and refugees gain a competitive edge in their job search. Employers and licensing bodies can trust the evaluation conducted by authorized organizations, giving newcomers a chance to showcase their expertise and qualifications with confidence. Moreover, educational institutions can use these reports to determine eligibility for further studies, allowing individuals to pursue advanced degrees or professional development courses in their respective fields. 

According to a study conducted by the Conference Board of Canada, immigrants with a recognized credential evaluation report experience a higher rate of employment in their respective fields compared to those without one. The report also revealed that immigrants who obtained a credential evaluation report were more likely to find work that matched their qualifications, resulting in improved job satisfaction and higher earning potential. These statistics clearly demonstrate the positive impact that credential evaluation reports can have on the professional integration and success of internationally-educated immigrants and refugees in Canada. 

Credential evaluation reports serve as a powerful tool for internationally-educated immigrants and refugees navigating the Canadian labour market. They offer a comprehensive assessment of foreign credentials, providing clarity and credibility to the qualifications of newcomers. By leveraging the benefits of these reports, skilled immigrants and refugees can overcome the challenges of credential recognition and unlock a world of opportunities, ultimately contributing their expertise and enriching the Canadian economy and society as a whole. 

Are you an internationally-educated professional, living in Canada, who needs funds to pay for your Canadian accreditation, training, qualifying exams or professional development courses? Over 95% of eligible newcomers are approved for a Windmill Microlending loan of up to $15,000. No Canadian credit history required. Start your application today.