Many Indian students aiming to study abroad often wonder whether their high school or college degree is valid for admissions in universities in the United States, Canada, or New Zealand. This is where World Education Services (WES) can help. WES is a non-profit organization that evaluates educational credentials from various countries and provides their equivalents for US, Canadian, or New Zealand academic standards.
WES operates with the goal of ensuring individuals can utilize their education, experience, and skills globally. Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding WES and its application process.
What is WES?
World Education Services (WES) is a trusted non-profit organization that assesses international academic credentials. It compares degrees, diplomas, or certificates from any country to their equivalents in the US, Canada, or New Zealand.
For example, a three-year Bachelor of Arts (Hons) degree in English Literature from the University of Delhi is considered equivalent to a four-year Bachelor’s degree in Canada. This equivalency report is particularly valuable for students applying to universities or professionals seeking immigration opportunities.
Steps to Apply for WES Degree Evaluation
Follow these steps to evaluate your Indian degree with WES:
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Go to wes.org.
Step 2: Get Started
Click on the ‘Get an Evaluation’ button on the homepage.
Step 3: Register or Log In
Sign up using your email and personal details. If you already have an account, log in to proceed.
Step 4: Provide Degree Credentials
Enter the required details, including:
- Degree name
- University name
- Years of study
- Country of education
Step 5: Check Degree Equivalency
Once you submit the information, WES provides a preliminary equivalency for your degree. Remember, this provisional equivalency is not verified yet and can change after document review.
Step 6: Proceed with Application
If you wish to continue, submit the necessary documents for verification. WES provides specific guidelines on whether original documents are required. In most cases, original documents are not needed unless specifically requested. If required, WES will return them after evaluation.
Step 7: Receive Your WES Reference Number
A unique WES reference number is generated after you complete your application and payment. This number is essential for tracking your credential evaluation report.
Document Verification and Analysis
Once the application is complete, a WES evaluation specialist assesses your credentials to prepare the final report. Note that the initial equivalency is based on the unverified information you entered and may change after verification.
Digital Partnerships
WES has established digital partnerships with many universities worldwide. If your institution has an arrangement with WES, documents can be submitted electronically, ensuring faster processing. Institutions without a partnership can apply to join through WES’s Digital Partnership form.
Advantages of WES Degree Evaluation
- Global Acceptance: WES reports are widely accepted by universities, colleges, and immigration authorities in the US, Canada, and New Zealand.
- Convenience: With digital partnerships, institutions can securely send documents electronically.
- Comprehensive Analysis: WES specialists ensure your credentials are evaluated accurately.
Key Considerations for Students
- Provisional Equivalency is Not Final: The preliminary equivalency provided by WES is subject to change upon verification.
- Avoid Sending Originals (Unless Required): WES generally advises against sending original documents unless explicitly requested.
- University Partnerships: Check if your university has a digital arrangement with WES to streamline the process.
Conclusion
For Indian students aspiring to study abroad, WES is an invaluable tool for ensuring their degrees are recognized and evaluated accurately. By following the outlined steps and adhering to the guidelines, students can simplify their journey toward achieving academic and professional goals in the US, Canada, or New Zealand.
