Five reasons to have your educational credentials assessed in Canada

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes 

In summary: 

• For immigrants and refugees arriving in Canada, a crucial step towards harnessing their professional potential lies in the assessment of their international credentials. 
   
• Educational credential assessment in Canada is the process of evaluating foreign educational and professional credentials to determine their equivalency to Canadian standards. 
   
• For Canadian employers and academic institutions, recognizing these credentials enables them to tap into a diverse talent pool, bringing fresh perspectives, innovation and global expertise to the Canadian workforce and academic discourse. 
   

Embracing a new chapter in a foreign land often entails a journey of resilience, adaptation and pursuit of better prospects.  

For immigrants and refugees arriving in Canada, a crucial step towards harnessing their professional potential lies in the assessment of their international credentials. By undergoing a comprehensive evaluation of their education, training and certifications, these individuals can open the doors to new career opportunities and chart a path towards professional advancement. 

What is educational credential assessment? 

In the Canadian context, international credential assessment plays a pivotal role in recognizing and validating the skills and qualifications brought by immigrants and refugees from their country of origin. Educational credential assessment in Canada is the process of evaluating foreign educational and professional credentials to determine their equivalency to Canadian standards. 

This process involves an objective assessment conducted by designated organizations to determine the Canadian equivalency of foreign credentials. The value of this assessment extends far beyond a mere formality, as it facilitates the integration of skilled newcomers into the Canadian workforce by showcasing their expertise and credentials in a way that local employers and academic institutions can readily understand. 

The recognition of international credentials holds immense significance for both immigrants and refugees as well as the Canadian economy. For newcomers, it presents an opportunity to showcase their knowledge, experience and competencies acquired in their countries of origin. By having their credentials assessed and validated, individuals can leverage their diverse skill sets to pursue meaningful employment that aligns with their qualifications, interests and ambitions. For Canadian employers and academic institutions, recognizing these credentials enables them to tap into a diverse talent pool, bringing fresh perspectives, innovation and global expertise to the Canadian workforce and academic discourse. 

Want to learn more about the steps you need to complete to get licensed or certified in your profession in Canada? Visit Windmill Microlending’s Educational Pathways.    

International credential assessments can have a transformative impact on the professional success of immigrants and refugees in Canada. Additionally, immigrants with assessed credentials can experience faster wage growth compared to their counterparts who did not undergo the assessment process. It can play an instrumental role in bridging the gap between newcomers' qualifications and the Canadian labour market, ultimately fostering economic growth and personal fulfillment. 

For Canadian communities, accreditation means they can benefit from the skills newcomers to Canada developed in their former countries. For newcomers, accreditation can help them get one step closer to their career and learning goals in Canada. 

Wondering how educational credential assessment could help you reach your Canadian goals? The Windmill Microlending blog connected with The Comparative Education Service (CES) at the University of Toronto’s School of Continuing Education to discuss the reasons to explore educational credential assessment as a skilled immigrant or refugee in Canada. Here are five reasons to consider it. 

The University of Toronto’s Comparative Education Service (CES) was established in 1967 and is Canada’s only university-based academic credential assessment agency, housed within the University of Toronto’s School of Continuing Studies. 

1. Job opportunities: Many employers in Canada require an educational credential assessment to ensure that their employees have the necessary qualifications and skills for the job.
   
   
2. Educational opportunities: Educational credential assessment can help you gain admission to Canadian universities and colleges.
   
   
3. Immigration: Educational credential assessment is often required for immigration to Canada, particularly for Express Entry programs.
   
   
4. Social integration: Having your credentials assessed can help you integrate into Canadian society and identify new opportunities for personal and professional growth.
   
   
5. Professional Licensing: Educational credential assessment can help you to gain a professional license to work in a regulated profession, such as nursing is some provinces, in Canada.

If you’re looking for financial assistance to have your credentials assessed, Windmill Microlending can help. Windmill Microlending is Canada’s only national charity offering affordable loans to skilled immigrants and refugees. Windmill’s microloans help clients pay for the costs of accreditation, training and career development. And, when you’re ready to have your credentials assessed, the University of Toronto’s School of Continuing Studies Comparative Education Service (CES) is here to help you reach your educational and career goals in Canada.

CES was established in 1967 and is Canada’s only university-based academic credential assessment agency. It is trusted by employers and professional agencies throughout Canada, and its credential assessment reports are recognized throughout Canada and beyond. CES also supports clients’ continuous learning with a special offer — a one-time $200 tuition discount — that can be applied towards one of hundreds of courses and certificate programs available at the University of Toronto’s School of Continuing Studies. 

By embracing the process of international credential assessment, immigrants and refugees can overcome barriers and seize the opportunities that await them in Canada. Through the recognition of their qualifications and experiences, they can embark on fulfilling careers that contribute not only to their individual success but also to the diverse fabric of the Canadian workforce. 

Are you an internationally-educated immigrant or refugee professional, living in Canada, who needs funds to pay for your Canadian credential assessment, training, qualifying exams or professional development courses? Over 95% of eligible newcomers are approved for a Windmill Microlending loan of up to $15,000. No Canadian credit history required. Start your application today.