Submitting your application for an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) marks a significant milestone in the immigration or academic qualification process. However, many applicants later realize that they either missed uploading a required document or obtained a more recent, updated version that they want to include. Naturally, this leads to a common and critical question: Can I still upload documents online after submitting my application?
The short answer is: It depends on the policies of the evaluating body and the stage of your application processing. But there’s more to consider. In this in-depth blog, we will break down every aspect of this question—explaining what you can do, when you can do it, and how to avoid delays or rejections in your credential assessment process.
Why You Might Need to Upload Additional Documents After Submission
There are several situations in which applicants feel the need to add or replace documents after the application has already been submitted:
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You forgot to include a required document such as an identity proof or degree certificate.
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You’ve received a new or corrected transcript from your academic institution.
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You legally changed your name and want to submit updated identification.
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You were contacted by the credential evaluation agency requesting clarifications or additional documents.
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You want to provide a translation of a document originally submitted in a non-English language.
Regardless of the reason, timing and protocol are crucial.
What You Need to Understand First: Application Status
Your ability to upload new documents online greatly depends on the current status of your application:
1. Before Your Application Is Reviewed
If your application is still in the queue and has not yet entered the evaluation stage, some agencies may allow you to add or upload documents via your applicant portal. In this phase, it’s often easier to supplement or update your file without any formal request.
2. During the Evaluation Process
Once your application has moved into the review or evaluation stage, your access to make modifications or additions may become limited. Many agencies disable editing rights at this point, as evaluators rely on a locked, consistent set of documents. In these cases, you may be required to submit a formal request to upload new documents or wait for the agency to contact you with instructions.
3. After Report Is Issued
If your ECA has already been issued and you later discover that a document was missing or incorrectly submitted, you generally cannot alter the report retroactively. You may be advised to submit a new application or request a reassessment (if permitted by the agency) by providing the updated documents.
How to Upload Additional Documents (If Allowed)
If the credential evaluation agency permits document uploads after submission, here’s how the process typically works:
Step 1: Log Into Your Applicant Portal
Most evaluation services offer a secure online portal where you manage your application. Once logged in, you’ll need to navigate to your active application and check if the “Upload” feature is still available.
Step 2: Verify the Type of Documents You Can Upload
Some platforms restrict uploads to certain categories—e.g., identification documents, translations, academic records. Make sure your document matches the correct category to prevent confusion or delays.
Step 3: Follow Naming and Formatting Guidelines
Adhere to file type and size restrictions. Typically, only PDF or JPEG formats are accepted. Label your documents clearly—such as “Bachelor_Degree_Certificate” or “NameChange_Affidavit”—to ensure clarity for the evaluator.
Step 4: Notify the Agency (If Required)
Some agencies request that you inform them directly via email or internal message if you’ve uploaded new documents after submission, especially if the application is already under review. This notification can trigger a manual flag or note to evaluators.
What to Do If Uploading Is Not Possible
If the online system doesn’t allow you to upload additional documents, you are not without options. Here’s what you can do:
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Contact Customer Support: Explain the situation, and ask for permission to upload additional documents. Some agencies provide a one-time access extension or direct you to send documents via email.
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Wait for an Official Request: Often, if a document is missing or incomplete, the agency will reach out to you with an official request for clarification. They’ll provide steps to submit the missing document at that point.
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Start a New Application: If the missing or incorrect document is significant and your original report has already been issued, you may be advised to submit a fresh application with the complete documentation.
Proactive Steps to Avoid This Problem
To prevent the need for late document uploads, follow these best practices before submission:
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Double-Check the Document Checklist: Review the list of required documents carefully for your level of education and purpose of evaluation.
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Ensure Completeness and Consistency: Make sure names, dates, and credentials are consistent across all documents.
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Use the Correct Format and Translation: Submit only certified translations for non-English documents and ensure that scanned copies are clear and legible.
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Verify Institutional Requirements: Some evaluation services require documents to be sent directly from your university, while others allow applicant uploads. Understand what’s acceptable in your case.
Final Thoughts
Yes, in some circumstances, you may be allowed to upload additional documents online after submitting your application, but this largely depends on the status of your application and the policies of the credential evaluation agency. Acting quickly, contacting support, and clearly communicating your situation are key to resolving any document-related concerns without causing delays in your assessment.
If you’re still unsure whether uploads are allowed at your stage, it’s always better to reach out to the agency directly, clearly state your case, and follow their guidance. Every small step counts when your education credentials are being reviewed for life-changing opportunities such as immigration, higher education, or professional licensure.
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