One of the most common questions that applicants have after completing an academic credential evaluation is whether it’s possible to add an additional credential to the assessment report that has already been issued. Perhaps you forgot to include a diploma you recently received. Or maybe you’ve obtained a higher degree since your initial application. Whatever the case may be, understanding how to navigate this process is crucial if you want your report to reflect the most accurate and complete picture of your academic background.
This blog aims to provide a thorough explanation of whether you can add an additional credential after your evaluation has already been finalized, and what steps you need to take if such an update is possible. We will explore the potential scenarios, outline the process for requesting an update, and highlight the important considerations you should keep in mind.
Why Would You Want to Add Another Credential?
There are many valid reasons why someone might want to add a new credential after their original evaluation has been completed:
-
You earned another academic qualification (e.g., a master’s degree after your bachelor’s was assessed)
-
You forgot to include an older credential during your original application
-
You misunderstood the requirements and didn’t realize multiple credentials could be evaluated together
-
You’re applying for immigration or licensing purposes and now need a more comprehensive report
-
Your evaluator originally assessed only one credential, but a new application (like WES, NDEB, or IRCC) requires more
Regardless of your reason, the ability to add a credential depends on the specific policies and procedures of the evaluation service provider. However, many services offer an option to update or extend your original report.
Is It Possible to Add a Credential After Evaluation?
In most cases, yes, it is possible to add a new credential to an already completed evaluation—but not automatically. The process usually involves submitting a new request for an updated report or supplemental evaluation, and you’ll often need to:
-
Submit official documents for the new credential, directly from the institution
-
Pay an additional fee
-
Meet all original submission requirements
-
Reference your existing file or reference number from the original report
The agency may re-evaluate your original application in conjunction with the new documents, or they may issue a new, updated report that includes both credentials.
Step-by-Step Process to Add a Credential to an Existing Evaluation
Here’s what you generally need to do if you want to add another credential after your report has already been completed:
1. Review the Credential Addition Policy
First, visit the credential evaluation agency’s official instructions on post-evaluation services. Look for a section like “update an evaluation,” “add a credential,” or “reassessment.”
Read their requirements carefully:
-
Are you allowed to add credentials?
-
Is there a time limit from the original report?
-
Are there restrictions on credential types?
2. Contact Customer Support for Confirmation
Even if the information is available on the website, it’s always wise to reach out to the agency’s support team. Send them a message or email with:
-
Your full name and reference number
-
A short explanation of your request
-
Details about the additional credential you want assessed
This ensures that you’re proceeding with the correct procedure and that the agency is aware of your intent to update the report.
3. Submit New Academic Documents
Just like your first evaluation, the new credential must be submitted in accordance with the agency’s documentation rules. That usually means:
-
Official transcripts sent directly from the academic institution
-
Degree certificates, where required
-
Certified English translations (if your documents are in another language)
Make sure your new documents meet all submission standards and arrive sealed or via approved digital methods.
4. Complete a Request for Update or Additional Service
Most credential evaluation services offer an online portal or downloadable form where you can formally request the addition of a new credential. This step often requires:
-
Filling out your personal details again
-
Indicating your original file or reference number
-
Selecting the type of new credential to be assessed
-
Indicating how you would like the updated report to be delivered
5. Pay the Required Fee
There is almost always a fee associated with adding a credential to a completed evaluation. This fee covers:
-
Administrative processing
-
Review of the new credential
-
Generation of an updated report
Fees vary depending on the service provider and the urgency of your request (e.g., standard vs. expedited processing).
6. Wait for the Updated Report
Once your new documents are received and verified, the agency will begin processing your updated evaluation. The timeline will depend on:
-
The complexity of the new credential
-
The number of credentials being evaluated
-
Whether additional verification is required
You’ll typically receive a digital or physical copy of the updated report that reflects all previously and newly submitted credentials.
Things to Consider Before Requesting an Update
-
Make sure the credential is relevant: Adding a non-academic certificate or a short-term training may not enhance your report unless it’s from a recognized institution and tied to formal education.
-
Timelines and deadlines: If you’re applying to a university, licensing board, or immigration authority, check whether you have time to wait for an updated report.
-
Evaluate cost vs. benefit: Adding a credential could improve your report, but it will incur additional fees. Make sure the update is necessary for your goals.
-
Validity period of your report: Some evaluation agencies allow updates only within a certain time frame—like 5 years from the original issue date.
Our Services – FACTS Transcripts
We at FACTS Transcripts assist in various services, including:
- Mark Sheet Transcripts
- E-Transcripts
- Duplicate Mark Sheets & Degree Certificates
- Medium of Instructions Certificates
- Attestations
- HRD Attestation / Apostille Services
- ECA (Educational Credentials Assessment)
Trusted by leading global verification organizations, including WES, IQAS, PEBC, NDEB, NASBA, CAPR, NZQA, ICAS, NCESS, ICES, ECE, eduPASS, ACEI, GCEUS, Comparative Education Services, NNAS, NCA, SAQA, QMAS, FORAC, Australian Pharmacy Council, and more.
FACTS Transcripts – The preferred choice for university document verification worldwide. We ensure a hassle-free process for obtaining your transcripts.
