In today's rapidly globalizing world, an increasing number of international students are choosing to pursue their education in the United States. One critical aspect of this process is credit transfer - the mechanism that allows students to connect their academic achievements from other countries with the U.S. education system. Proper evaluation of these academic credentials is essential for gaining recognition of one's educational background in America.
Understanding Transcript Evaluation
Transcript evaluation is essentially a comparative analysis that matches courses (or "credits") completed in your home country with their U.S. equivalents. This process helps educational institutions and employers better understand your qualifications and determine whether they meet American educational standards.
In the U.S., a transcript is a detailed document listing all courses taken during high school or college. Most graduates receive one official transcript and can typically request additional copies directly from their institution. The credit system assigns numerical values (typically 1, 2, 3, or 4 credits) to courses based on their nature and difficulty level. Total credit requirements for degree completion vary by institution and program.
When Transcript Evaluation is Necessary
If you plan to attend college or seek employment in the U.S., you'll likely need to have your transcripts evaluated:
- University or Graduate School Applications: Contact the international admissions office of your target schools, as requirements vary by institution.
- Job Applications: Technical positions (engineers, doctors, lawyers) typically require detailed educational evaluations, while non-specialized jobs (cashiers, servers) may not.
- K-12 Education: For high school or lower grades, schools usually don't require full evaluations - translated transcripts or placement tests may suffice.
Obtaining Your Transcripts
You can request transcripts directly from your previous institutions, either online or by phone. Challenges may arise if your school has closed or if you're in an unstable region. In such cases, communicate with potential employers or admissions offices - they might accept alternative documentation or recommendation letters from former professors.
For workplace needs, consult your HR department; for educational purposes, contact the school's admissions office about their specific requirements.
Choosing an Evaluation Service
While many online companies offer transcript evaluation services, exercise caution. Some websites may be fraudulent, potentially stealing personal information or funds. We recommend using members of these reputable organizations:
- National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES)
- Association of International Credential Evaluators (AICE)
Potential Additional Requirements
You might discover that completing your degree in the U.S. requires additional coursework beyond what you completed in your home country. While frustrating, this is often necessary due to differences in educational standards. For instance, architects from Iraq and America perform similar functions but must follow different regulations.
If your profession requires advanced degrees in your home country, you may need to pursue new certifications or coursework in the U.S., particularly for regulated fields like medicine, law, and education. For non-degree jobs, relevant skills may suffice without additional certification.
If you need help interpreting evaluation results, contact the evaluation company or seek guidance from school counselors who can explain the assessment and advise on necessary coursework.