The International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES) is a crucial resource for individuals who have completed their education outside of Canada and wish to have their credentials recognized for various purposes, such as immigration, employment, or education. This comprehensive guide will provide an in-depth understanding of ICES, its mandate, its services for general purposes and immigration, and address some frequently asked questions.
What is the International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES)?
ICES is a credential assessment service operated by the British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT). It evaluates the educational qualifications of individuals who have studied outside of Canada, providing a clear and objective assessment of their international credentials. ICES helps immigrants, employers, and educational institutions make informed decisions by understanding and recognizing the educational credentials earned in other countries.
ICES Canada Mandate
The mandate of ICES is to provide accurate, consistent, and reliable assessments of international educational credentials. As a designated provider of educational credential assessments for Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), ICES is vital in assisting individuals with their immigration applications and facilitating their integration into the Canadian labor market and higher education system. ICES follows the Pan-Canadian Quality Assurance Framework for the Assessment of International Academic Credentials (QAF) and is a member of the Alliance of Credential Evaluation Services of Canada (ACESC).
ICES for General Purposes
ICES offers two main types of evaluations for general purposes: Basic Evaluation and Comprehensive Evaluation.
- Essential Evaluation: This service provides a general evaluation of the highest level of education the applicant completes. The Basic Evaluation suits employment, immigration, or general educational purposes. It includes an assessment of the level of education and identifies the program, institution, and country where the credential was earned.
- Comprehensive Evaluation: This service offers a detailed analysis of all completed post-secondary education, including a breakdown of each credential, courses taken, and grades achieved. The Comprehensive Evaluation suits individuals seeking admission to an educational institution or applying for professional licensure.
Scope and Limits of ICES Report
The scope of an ICES report is to assess an individual’s international academic credentials about Canadian educational standards. ICES evaluates the level of education, program, institution, and country where the credential was earned. However, it is essential to understand the limits of an ICES report. ICES does not:
- Guarantee that the Evaluation will be accepted by all organizations or institutions
- Assess professional qualifications or work experience
- Provide a job placement service
- Confirm the authenticity of documents, although it does make every effort to detect fraudulent credentials.
ICES for Canada Immigration Purposes
ICES is a designated provider of educational credential assessments for Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) purposes. Individuals applying for immigration to Canada under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, or the Canadian Experience Class may need an ICES evaluation as part of their application. The Basic Evaluation is typically sufficient for immigration purposes, as it provides a general assessment of the highest level of education the applicant completes.
ICES Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to obtain an ICES evaluation?
Processing times for ICES evaluations can vary depending on the complexity of the credentials and the volume of applications received. However, the standard processing time is generally around four weeks.
- What documents are required for an ICES evaluation?
To obtain an ICES evaluation, applicants must provide the following:
- A completed application form
- Required fees for the service requested
- Official educational documents (transcripts, diplomas, certificates, etc.)
- Proof of identity (a clear, legible copy of the photo page of a valid passport or government-issued ID)
- Authorization forms for third parties (if applicable)
- Can I use an ICES evaluation for multiple purposes?
An ICES evaluation can be used for multiple purposes, such as immigration, employment, and education. However, checking with the specific organization or institution is essential to ensure they accept ICES evaluations.
- How do I apply for an ICES evaluation?
To apply for an ICES evaluation, you must complete the application form on the ICES website, submit the required fees, and provide the necessary documentation. Detailed instructions on the application process can be found on the ICES website.
- How much does an ICES evaluation cost?
The fees for ICES evaluations depend on the type of Evaluation requested. For the most up-to-date fee information, please visit the ICES website.
- How do I submit my documents for an ICES evaluation?
You can submit your documents by mail or in person at the ICES office. Some documents, such as official transcripts or diplomas, may need to be sent directly by the issuing institution. Please refer to the ICES website for detailed instructions on submitting your documents.
Conclusion
The International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES) is an essential resource for individuals who have completed their education outside of Canada and wish to have their credentials recognized for various purposes. By understanding ICES’s mandate, services, and limitations, you can make informed decisions about your international credentials and successfully navigate the Canadian labor market and higher education system.