Millions of international STUDENTS dream of studying in the United States, but before they can admit you, they need to know how your foreign credentials compare to US academic standards.
This guide explains the complete US Academic Evaluation Requirements for international students applying to American universities. Why US universities require it, which documents you must submit, how to choose an evaluation agency & country-specific details.
What Is US Credential Evaluation for International Students?
Understanding US Credential Evaluation Requirements helps students know which documents, transcripts, and GPA details are needed. It is a formal review of your foreign academic documents to determine their US educational equivalency.
Evaluators analyze your degree level, Course content, academic credits, grades / GPA, institution accreditation & duration of study.
Universities use this evaluation to decide even if you meet their admission requirements.
Why Do US Universities Require Credential Evaluation?
| Reason | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Verify academic legitimacy | Ensures your school and program are recognized. |
| Compare degree levels | A bachelor’s or high school diploma abroad may differ from U.S. equivalents. |
| Assign GPA | Converts foreign grades to the US 4.0 GPA scale. |
| Review coursework | Determines if you meet program prerequisites |
| Ensure fairness | Standar |
Suggested Read:- Foreign Degree to US Degree Equivalency – Country-by-Country, Guide
Types of Credential Evaluations for International Students!
| Evaluation Type | Best For | What it includes |
|---|---|---|
| Document-by-Document | Undergraduate admissions, general evaluation | Verifies degree level and institution recognition |
| Course-by-Course | Graduate admissions, competitive programs | Lists each course, credits, GPA conversion |
| High School Evaluation | Freshman admissions | Shows U.S. high school diploma equivalency |
| Subject Analysis | Transfer students | Determines which courses can transfer to a U.S. college |
Tip – Most universities require course-by-course evaluation for graduate programs (MS, MBA, PhD).
Documents Required for Credential Evaluation!
These are the core US Credential Evaluation Requirements that almost every university expects from international applicants.
Here is the standard document checklist –
| Document | Required For |
|---|---|
| Degree certificate / diploma | Undergraduate & graduate applications |
| Transcripts / mark sheets | Mandatory for all programs |
| High school transcripts | Freshman applications |
| Course descriptions / syllabus | Required for transfer credit evaluation |
| English translations | If documents are not in English |
| Copy of passport or ID | Identity verification |
| WES/Agency form (if applicable) | Required by some evaluators |
Tip – Request transcripts directly from your university to the evaluator, many US schools need this for authenticity.
Country-by-Country Document Notes for Students!
Country rules differ, but the US Credential Evaluation Requirements remain mostly the same for accuracy and standardization.
India
- Provide combined mark sheets or semester-wise transcripts
- Autonomous colleges must send documents through the parent university
China
- Use CHESICC verification (often required by WES)
Philippines
- TOR (Transcript of Records) + diploma required
Nigeria
- WAEC/NECO verification needed for high school applicants
Europe (Bologna System)
- Diploma supplement is largely accepted
Which Agencies Are Accepted by U.S. Universities?
Different agencies follow US Credential Evaluation Requirements set by universities and accreditation bodies.
While acceptance varies by university, these agencies are largely recognized –
| Agency | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| WES (World Education Services | Most universities | Popular and widely accepted |
| ECE | Academic admissions | Highly trusted for accuracy |
| SpanTran | Fast processing | Offers discounted packages |
| IEE | Affordable evaluations | Great for students with deadlines |
| Educational Perspectives | Transfer credit evaluations | NACES member |
Tip – Always check the university website, some schools accept only NACES or only AICE members.
Common Problems Students Face (and Solutions)
| Problem | Why it happens | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Missing transcripts | University delays | Request early, follow up in writing |
| Incorrect document format | Some universities require sealed envelopes | Ask evaluator for instructions |
| Wrong evaluation type | Students choose document-by-document instead of course-by-course | Check program requirements |
| Unaccredited foreign institution | Not recognized internationally | Choose another evaluator or program |
| Duplicate submissions | Students send documents multiple times | Track submissions carefully |
Tips to Make Credential Evaluation Easy!
Tip 1 – Start the process early
It may take 2 to 6 weeks depending on your university & evaluator.
Tip 2 – Send transcripts directly from your institution
Many US universities will reject documents sent by the student.
Tip 3 – Choose an evaluator accepted by your school
Check the school’s international admissions page.
Tip 4 – Translate documents with certified translators
Handwritten or unofficial translations are usually rejected.
Tip 5 – Keep digital copies of all your documents
Useful for uploads, quick evaluations & future applications.
In Conclusion!
Credential evaluation is one of the most important steps for international students applying to US universities. By following the official US Credential Evaluation Requirements, students can avoid delays and get faster admissions decisions.
With the right documents, the right evaluator & a clear understanding of requirements the process becomes simple & easy.
Use this guide to prepare effectively & check your US admission journey starts smoothly!
Need a Credential Evaluation for Your US University Application?
Our experts at Document Evaluation are ready to guide you and deliver a university accepted report quickly & accurately.
Email – info@documentevaluation.com
Phone – +1(870) 600-2225
Looking for fast evaluation or expert Evaluation …check OUR PRICING or Contact our team, we will guide you step-by-step!!
Frequently Asked Questions!
For MS, MBA, MPH & other graduate programs, most US universities need a course-by-course evaluation because it shows US GPA, credit hours & detailed coursework comparison.
Yes, many universities allow you to apply first and submit your credential evaluation later. However, your application will not be fully processed or admitted until the evaluation report is received.
Standard evaluations take 5 to 20 business days, depending on the documents verification. Same day evaluations are available for an extra fee.
Yes many evaluators now accept secure digital transcripts from official university email accounts or authorized platforms.
Yes, students applying for undergraduate programs often need a high school diploma evaluation to verify U.S. equivalency and determine eligibility for freshman admission.
No evaluation agency “boosts” your GPA. They simply convert your grades into the US system. A strong GPA in your home country usually translates well, but it cannot be artificially changed.
Work experience can only be used for immigration evaluations not for academic admissions.
