Drafted from the official pages listed under Sources, last read on 25 October 2026. Rules, fees and thresholds change: check the official page before you act. This is not legal advice and does not guarantee any outcome.
When an ECA is needed
IRCC says you need an ECA if you completed education outside Canada and want to be eligible as principal applicant for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, or to earn education points. You can also get points for an accompanying spouse's or partner's foreign education.
You do not need an assessment for a Canadian degree, diploma or certificate.
Designated organizations
Most people use one of the five multipurpose organizations. Some regulated occupations must use a designated professional body.
- Comparative Education Service, University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies
- International Credential Assessment Service of Canada
- World Education Services
- International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS)
- International Credential Evaluation Service, British Columbia Institute of Technology
- Architects (NOC 21200): Canadian Architectural Certification Board, if a licence to practise is needed
- Specialists and family physicians (NOC 31100-31102): Medical Council of Canada, for the primary medical diploma
- Pharmacists (NOC 31120): Pharmacy Examining Board of Canada, if a licence to practise is needed
How to get one
Choose a designated organization. It gives a report stating what your education equals in Canada and tells you how to submit documents.
Usually you need an assessment for your highest credential. For more than one credential, you need one for each, and at least one must be for 3 or more years of study to earn full points.
Enter the results and reference number in your Express Entry profile, keep your original documents, and be ready to upload copies if invited.
Validity
The ECA must be less than 5 years old when you complete your Express Entry profile and when you submit your application. If it will expire, the issuing organization may re-issue it. IRCC says applying with an expired ECA leads to refusal.
What to check on the official page
Confirm the current list of designated organizations, fees and processing times on each organization's own site.
What changes often
The list of designated organizations can change (IRCC publishes notices when it adds one). Re-check the IRCC list before ordering.
Fees as published (checked 25 October 2026)
- ECA fees: Set by each designated organization; see its own site
Document checklist
- Each organization sets its own document requirements; follow the instructions the chosen organization gives.