Getting Your Indian Degree Recognized in Canada: The ECA and WES Process

Step-by-step guide on how to get your Indian educational credentials assessed through WES or other IRCC-designated organizations — a mandatory step for most PR pathways.

Summary

An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) verifies that your Indian degree or diploma is equivalent to a Canadian credential. It is required for Express Entry and many provincial streams. World Education Services (WES) is the most commonly used designated organization.

When You Need an ECA

  • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) via Express Entry
  • Most Provincial Nominee Programs
  • Some professional licensing bodies in Canada
  • Note: Canadian study does not require an ECA.

Designated ECA Organizations

IRCC designates several organizations. WES (World Education Services) is the most common. Others include ICAS (International Credential Assessment Service of Canada) and IQAS (International Qualifications Assessment Service). Choose based on your province and profession.

Step-by-Step WES Process

  1. Create an account at wes.org and select 'ECA for IRCC' as the purpose.
  2. Pay the WES fee (approximately CAD $239 for a basic ECA).
  3. Request your Indian university to send official transcripts and degree certificates directly to WES.
  4. Submit your documents and wait for assessment (typically 7–20 business days after documents are received).
  5. Download your ECA report and include the reference number in your Express Entry profile.

Indian University Transcript Tips

  • Many Indian universities require a formal letter from WES before releasing transcripts.
  • Use WES's Indian university directory to check specific requirements.
  • Apostille may be required for some document verification steps.
  • Convocation certificates must include both degree name and date of conferral.

Common Mistakes Indians Make

  • Ordering an ECA for general use instead of selecting 'IRCC' as the purpose — these are different products with different fees.
  • Using a non-designated organization whose reports IRCC will not accept.
  • Sending photocopies to WES — only originals or notarized copies from the university are accepted.
  • Waiting for the ECA after creating an Express Entry profile — this wastes profile validity time.

Official Resources

  • WES Canada: www.wes.org
  • IRCC ECA designated organizations: canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/express-entry/eligibility/education-assessed.html