Evaluating WES for Associate and Bachelor Degrees in Canada: A Comprehensive Guide
When it comes to applying for Canadian immigration through the Express Entry system, understanding the evaluation process of your educational credentials is crucial. One of the key organizations involved in this process is the World Education Services (WES), which evaluates educational credentials for recognition in Canada. If you have already completed an associate degree from a recognized institution, you may be wondering if you can utilize this credential to maximize your points for the Express Entry system. In this article, we will discuss how WES evaluates associate and bachelor degrees, the impact on Express Entry points, and how to use skill assessments to enhance your application.
Introduction to WES Evaluation
The World Education Services (WES) is well-known for its rigorous evaluation of international education credentials. If your university is recognized by WES, they will evaluate your educational certifications and degrees. WES not only verifies the authenticity of your transcripts but also provides a detailed assessment that includes degree equivalence, course descriptions, and credit evaluations. While WES evaluations are valuable for understanding the academic value of your credential, they are not the only factor considered in the Express Entry system.
Impact of Associate and Bachelor Degrees on Express Entry
Regarding the Express Entry system, it is important to note that the maximum points are awarded for a doctorate (8 points), followed by a master's degree (6 points), and then two or more degrees (3 points). Even though the word "degree" is used in the point categories, the focus is primarily on completed degrees rather than the specific number of credits earned.
For individuals who have completed an associate degree, the key is to determine if it has an equivalent education in Canada. If the associate degree can be considered equivalent to a Canadian bachelor or higher degree, you may qualify for the "two or more degrees" category, which awards 3 points. However, WES does not evaluate credits; they focus on the completed degree and its equivalence. Therefore, if your associate degree is recognized as equivalent in Canada, this can significantly impact your Express Entry score.
Real Case Study: Evaluated Education Credentials
Let's consider a case where an individual completed an associate degree in mechanical engineering followed by a bachelor's degree in the same field. They attended a prestigious university where both degrees are recognized by WES. After completing the associate degree in machinery, which was a two-year program with 111 credits, the individual moved on to complete a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering. Despite a year of preparatory school, they exempted subjects they had already covered in the associate program, completing the bachelor's degree in three years, with 107 credits.
The WES evaluation classified the associate degree as equivalent to a Canadian bachelor's degree in engineering, which is significant for the Express Entry application. The individual also received a skill assessment from Engineers Australia, which further validates the educational background, although this is not a direct factor in the point system. The engineer was awarded 3 points for having two or more degrees, adding value to the overall score.
Alternative Qualifications and Recommendations
Individuals with other educational backgrounds, such as diploma and advanced diploma degrees, may need to evaluate their eligibility based on the Canadian equivalency standard. While these credentials are recognized, they do not directly contribute to the express entry points. However, a skill assessment from relevant Canadian professional associations can still be beneficial in demonstrating the level of professional expertise.
If you currently hold a master's degree in aerospace engineering but have not yet completed it, your situation is another factor to consider. The master's degree may contribute to the 6-point category for a master's degree upon completion. Nonetheless, as you are living in a different country, it is crucial to stay updated with any changes in immigration policies and guidelines.
Conclusion and Recommendations
To maximize your Express Entry points, understanding how WES evaluates your educational credentials is essential. If you have completed an associate degree that is recognized as equivalent to a Canadian degree, you can leverage this to your advantage by opting for the "two or more degrees" category. Additionally, obtaining a skill assessment from a relevant Canadian professional association, such as Engineers Australia, can further strengthen your application by providing endorsements of your professional qualifications.
Given the various factors at play, it is recommended to consult with an immigration advisor to tailor your application to your specific circumstances. With careful planning and a clear understanding of the requirements, you can improve your chances of success in the highly competitive Canadian immigration process.