For international students and professionals aiming to immigrate, study, or work in countries like Canada or the United States, World Education Services (WES) plays a vital role in evaluating academic credentials. WES helps convert your educational qualifications into an internationally recognized format that universities, immigration authorities, and licensing boards can understand and trust.
However, one of the most critical steps in the evaluation process is sending your official academic transcripts to WES. Whether you’re applying from India, the Middle East, Africa, Europe, or any part of the globe, understanding how to send transcripts correctly can save you time, money, and unnecessary delays.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from preparing your documents to choosing your delivery method — so that your transcripts are accepted and your WES evaluation proceeds without a hitch.
What is a Transcript and Why Is It Important for WES?
A transcript is an official record of your academic performance issued by your college or university. It contains details such as:
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Course title and specialization
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Semester- or year-wise marks or grades
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Total credits or hours completed
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Final result (CGPA or percentage)
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Duration of the program
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Degree conferral information
WES requires these transcripts to be sent in sealed and stamped envelopes directly from your university or board, or through authorized third-party providers. If submitted incorrectly, your evaluation request can be delayed or even rejected.
Who Needs to Send Transcripts to WES?
You’ll need to send your academic transcripts to WES if you are:
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Applying for higher education in Canada or the US
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Going through the Express Entry immigration process under the Federal Skilled Worker Program
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Applying for licensure or credential recognition in North America
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Seeking employment where foreign education must be evaluated
In each case, transcripts are one of the core documents WES requires to prepare your Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) report.
WES Transcript Submission: Key Requirements
Before sending your transcripts, ensure the following criteria are met:
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Documents must be issued by the institution that awarded your degree or diploma
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Transcripts must be in sealed envelopes signed or stamped across the back flap
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Envelope should include the WES reference number clearly written
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Transcripts must be either sent directly by the institution or by an approved document service provider
WES will not accept transcripts sent by the applicants themselves, unless they come through specific electronic channels approved by WES.
Step-by-Step Guide to Sending Transcripts to WES
Here’s a breakdown of how to prepare and send your transcripts to WES:
Step 1: Create Your WES Account and Get a Reference Number
Start by visiting the official WES portal and creating your account. Once you complete the application and pay the necessary fees, WES will issue a unique reference number.
This reference number must be included on all documents and envelopes sent to WES. Without it, your file may not be matched and processing will be delayed.
Step 2: Understand Country-Specific Requirements
Different countries and institutions have unique rules for transcript submission. WES provides detailed country-wise documentation requirements, including:
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Which documents are required (e.g., mark sheets, degree certificate)
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Whether documents must be sent directly by the university
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Accepted languages and translation rules
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Specific forms like the Academic Records Request Form
Be sure to review the requirements specific to your country and credential type.
Step 3: Obtain Your Academic Transcripts from the University
Request official transcripts from your academic institution. Most universities provide transcripts in sealed envelopes with the institution’s stamp or signature across the flap.
Documents you may need to submit to the university for transcript issuance:
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Application form for transcripts
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Photocopies of your mark sheets and degree
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Identity proof
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WES Academic Records Request Form (if applicable)
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Transcript fees (varies by institution)
Some universities now also provide online transcript request portals to streamline the process.
Step 4: Choose the Right Delivery Method
There are three major ways to send transcripts to WES:
Option A: University Sends Directly by Post or Courier
Most preferred method. Ask your university to send your sealed transcript envelope directly to the WES address, ensuring:
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Envelope is not tampered with
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Reference number is clearly marked
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A reliable courier or postal service is used
WES Canada Address (as of writing):
WES Reference No. [Your Number]
World Education Services
102-2820 14th Avenue
Markham, ON L3R 0S9
Canada
WES USA Address:
WES Reference No. [Your Number]
World Education Services
Bowling Green Station
P.O. Box 5087
New York, NY 10274-5087
USA
Always double-check the latest address on the WES website before dispatch.
Option B: Digital Transmission via Secure Platform
Some universities have partnerships with WES through digital document exchange platforms such as:
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TrueCopy
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DigiLocker (for Indian institutions)
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National Student Clearinghouse (for US universities)
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My eQuals (for Australian universities)
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CHESICC (for Chinese institutions)
If your university supports these platforms, transcripts can be sent electronically and securely to WES, expediting the process.
Option C: Through Authorized Third-Party Services
If your university doesn’t offer direct or digital transcript delivery, you can use a document collection and forwarding service. These services:
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Collect your academic records on your behalf
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Handle verification and notarization
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Submit your transcripts to WES in the correct format
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Provide tracking updates and dispatch confirmation
This is a helpful option for working professionals, NRIs, or those facing challenges in dealing with bureaucratic systems.
Important Tips to Ensure Successful Delivery
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Never open the sealed envelope once issued by your university
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Include your WES reference number on every document and envelope
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Use a reliable courier with tracking services for international deliveries
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Retain the dispatch proof (receipt, tracking number, airway bill)
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Follow up with WES through your dashboard to track document arrival
Timeline for Evaluation After Sending Transcripts
Once WES receives your documents, the processing time depends on:
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Completeness and accuracy of documents
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Evaluation type (basic, course-by-course)
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Volume of applications during peak periods
Typically, WES takes around 7 business days to issue the evaluation after receiving all required documents. However, delays can occur if:
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Documents are incomplete or illegible
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Envelopes are unsealed or tampered with
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The wrong reference number or address is used
What Happens After Transcripts Are Sent?
After submission:
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WES updates your status on the online dashboard once documents are received
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Your documents undergo verification with your institution (if needed)
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WES completes the evaluation and generates your ECA report
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A soft copy is made available on your WES account
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Hard copies are sent (if requested) to the designated address
The WES ECA report is valid for five years and can be used for multiple purposes, including immigration and further education.
Common Issues and How to Avoid Them
Problem | How to Prevent It |
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Documents not accepted | Follow WES document guidelines exactly |
Delayed delivery | Use fast, tracked courier services |
Envelope tampered | Never open sealed transcripts once issued |
Wrong address or reference number | Always double-check before sending |
Delays from university | Apply early and follow up regularly |
Final Thoughts
Sending your transcripts to WES is a critical step in your global academic or immigration journey. It requires attention to detail, coordination with your academic institution, and proper packaging and dispatch.
By understanding the requirements, preparing the correct documentation, and choosing the right method of submission — whether through your university, a digital platform, or a trusted service provider — you can ensure that your transcripts are accepted without delays or complications.
Take the time to follow the process carefully, and your WES credential evaluation will bring you one step closer to realizing your dreams abroad.
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)
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