Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)

Who Needs an ECA?

• You do not need an assessment for a Canadian or US degree, diploma, or certificate.
• If your main credentials are from outside Canada or the United States, you must meet one of these requirements on or before your program start date: an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a designated organization, or Mature Student Status through an approved qualifying test.
• An ECA confirms that your foreign credential is valid and equal to a Canadian one. For college admission, the assessment must come from a Canadian government-approved assessment agency. A report prepared for another purpose may also be considered.
• Attach the report to your admission application, or email it before your program starts.

Designated Organizations

Use one of these organizations. They tell you how to submit your documents.

• Comparative Education Service, University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies
• International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS)
• World Education Services (WES)
• International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS)
• International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES)

A third-party service, Can-Am Data, can help you with the process for a fee.

Common Questions

Do I need an ECA before applying for a study permit?

No. The ECA is an admission requirement under Ontario regulation. The study permit process is governed by federal law and may require a different type of assessment.

Which credentials should be assessed?

Usually only your highest credential. For example, if you have a master’s degree, you only need that degree assessed. CCEC’s minimum requirement is the equivalent of a Canadian secondary school diploma, or Mature Student Status through a qualifying test.

When should I get the ECA?

Before your program start date. We recommend arranging it after your admission is offered or accepted, or as soon as you can.

What if I cannot get the report before my program starts?

If circumstances beyond your control prevent it, the College may extend your admission to another available session on written request.

Do I need both an ECA and Mature Student Status?

No. You need only one.

Can I use Mature Student Status instead of an ECA?

Yes. Even if you have a degree, diploma, or secondary school certificate that cannot be assessed, you may qualify through the Mature Student qualifying test.

Legal Requirement

Students in an approved vocational program at a career college must meet the admission requirements in section 19 of Ontario Regulation 415/06, plus any requirements set by the college:

• an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent; or
• 18 years of age or older and a pass on a qualifying test approved by the Superintendent.

Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission.