When pursuing opportunities abroad—whether for higher education, employment, or immigration—international students and professionals must often demonstrate how their academic qualifications compare to those issued in the destination country. Credential evaluation plays a crucial role in this process.
What Is a Credential Evaluation?
A credential evaluation reviews and analyzes academic records earned outside the United States (such as diplomas, transcripts, or degrees) to determine their U.S. educational equivalents. The result is an official report that explains how a foreign credential compares to standards in the U.S. education system.
Credential evaluations are essential for:
- Applying to U.S. colleges or universities
- Pursuing professional licensure
- Meeting immigration requirements
- Verifying qualifications for employment in the U.S.
Is Credential Evaluation the Same as Educational Evaluation?
While the terms are often interchangeable, educational evaluation can be a broader concept. In international education, however, it typically refers to the credential evaluation process—i.e., comparing academic qualifications earned abroad to those issued in the U.S.
An educational evaluation answers key questions:
- What type of credential is this?
- Is the institution recognized in its home country?
- What is the U.S. equivalent of this degree or diploma?
- How do the courses, grades, and credits translate?
For practical purposes, educational evaluation is a credential evaluation when comparing foreign academic records.
Why Is Credential Evaluation Important?
Credential evaluations help bridge the gap between different education systems. They provide clarity and consistency for admissions officers, licensing boards, employers, and immigration officials reviewing documents they may not be familiar with.
Key Benefits of a Credential Evaluation:
| Purpose | Why It’s Needed |
| Higher Education | U.S. colleges and universities must understand the level and content of your prior studies before admitting you to a program. |
| Employment | Employers use credential evaluations to verify if your degree meets the qualifications for a job or promotion. |
| Licensure | Professions like teaching, nursing, and engineering often require credential evaluations as part of the licensure process. |
| Immigration | U.S. immigration authorities may require an educational evaluation as part of a visa or green card application. |
Who Conducts Credential Evaluations?
Not all credential evaluation services are equal. It’s important to choose an agency recognized for its standards and professionalism.
ACEI (Academic Credentials Evaluation Institute, Inc.) is a charter member of the Association of International Credential Evaluators (AICE®). AICE members uphold rigorous guidelines for accuracy, consistency, and transparency in credential evaluation. Evaluations prepared by AICE member agencies like ACEI are trusted by:
- U.S. colleges and universities
- Employers and HR departments
- Licensing boards
- Government agencies
Types of Credential Evaluations
Depending on your goals, you may need one of the following:
| Type | Description | Best For |
| Document-by-Document | Lists each academic credential and provides its U.S. equivalent (e.g., “Bachelor’s Degree equivalent”). | Employment, general admissions, immigration |
| Course-by-Course | Includes each course, credit hours, grades, and GPA equivalent. | Transfer admissions, graduate school, licensure |
Learn more: Course-by-Course vs. Document-by-Document Evaluations
Why Choose ACEI for Credential Evaluation?
With over 30 years of experience, ACEI has served thousands of individuals and institutions across the globe. Our evaluations are:
- Accurate – Prepared by trained specialists familiar with global education systems
- Recognized – Trusted by U.S. institutions and employers
- Comprehensive – Tailored to your goals, whether academic, professional, or immigration-related
Explore ACEI’s Evaluation Services to find the right report for your needs.
Need Help with Your Foreign Degree Evaluation?
Let ACEI simplify the process. Start your evaluation today: Apply Now.
Recommended Readings
- Course-by-Course vs. Document-by-Document: Which Evaluation Do You Need?
Understand the differences between the two main credential evaluation types and learn which fits your goals. - Recognition of Foreign Degrees in the U.S. – How It Works
Learn how U.S. institutions and employers determine the value of international degrees. - Credential Evaluation for International Students: Why It Matters
A helpful guide for international students navigating admissions and career pathways in the U.S. - Foreign Credential Evaluation in New York – Where to Go
Planning to live or study in New York? This article outlines your evaluation options, even if you apply outside the state. - Credential Evaluation Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Break down the process of applying for an evaluation, from choosing a service provider to receiving your report.
