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An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is carried out by an approved Canadian organisation, confirming the Canadian level of education completed outside Canada.
Which programmes need it?
| Programme | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Alberta’s Foreign Graduate Entrepreneur Stream (FGES) | Proves a degree from outside Canada within the last 10 years, equivalent to a Canadian degree |
| Some economic streams | Assesses education level |
Steps
- Choose the organisation: one approved for your programme.
- Prepare documents: degree certificates and transcripts.
- Transcripts sent directly by your university to the organisation.
- Pay and wait for the result.
Timing
An ECA usually takes weeks to months, so allow time so it doesn’t delay your EOI or application.
Common issues
- A school or degree name has changed: provide evidence.
- Transcript delays: contact your university early.
- An unexpected result: follow the organisation’s enquiry process.
FGES
FGES is for graduates of universities outside Canada, so the ECA is a core document — prepared alongside language results, the business plan and the designated agency recommendation.