When you’ve submitted all your documents, paid the necessary fees, and eagerly started tracking your credential evaluation application, it can be frustrating to see the status remain unchanged for weeks. Naturally, questions start to surface: Is there a problem with my application? Have my documents been lost? Did I miss an update? When will the status finally change?
In this detailed blog, we’ll explore the possible reasons your application status hasn’t been updated for several weeks, what this could mean in the broader evaluation process, and how you should approach the situation to stay informed and in control.
The Reality of Credential Evaluation Timelines
Credential evaluation is a complex and meticulous process. Whether it’s for academic admission, immigration, licensure, or employment abroad, the evaluation agency must carefully verify and assess the authenticity and academic value of each document submitted. This takes time.
In general, the timeline can be influenced by several external and internal factors, including:
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The country of origin and type of academic institution
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Volume of applications being processed at the time
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Complexity of your educational history (e.g., multiple degrees, gaps, unusual formats)
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Verification response time from your academic institution
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Time taken to receive physical or electronic documents
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Compliance checks and document authenticity protocols
Due to these factors, seeing your application status remain unchanged for multiple weeks is not uncommon. It doesn’t necessarily mean there is a problem—it may simply reflect the behind-the-scenes work taking place.
Common Stages Where the Status May Stall
Let’s break down a few common points in the process where applicants often report their status being “stuck”:
1. After Application Submission
You may see a status like “Application Received” or “Submitted” with no changes for days or even weeks. This often indicates your file is in a queue awaiting initial document verification or review assignment. High application volumes or peak admission seasons can increase the wait time during this stage.
2. After Document Receipt
If your portal shows that documents have been received but there’s no further update, it usually means the documents are pending verification. This step can be slow, especially if the documents need to be validated with the issuing institution or if the documents were received in hard copy via international mail.
3. During Review
If the status says something like “Under Review” or “Assessment in Progress” and stays that way for several weeks, this typically means your file is with an evaluator who is reviewing your educational credentials. Depending on workload, this phase can take time. The evaluator may also be awaiting third-party verification.
4. Pending Additional Information
Sometimes the evaluator may need additional documents or clarification. While the status may not change immediately, you may eventually receive a request for further documentation. Until then, the file is essentially paused.
What You Should (and Shouldn’t) Worry About
It’s natural to feel anxious when your application doesn’t appear to be progressing. However, here’s what to keep in mind:
Don’t worry if:
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Your documents were sent recently (within 4–6 weeks), especially from outside the country
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The same status has been showing for 2–3 weeks (this is normal)
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It’s peak application season (summer, early fall)
Consider checking or following up if:
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It’s been more than 6–8 weeks without any update
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Your academic institution confirmed sending documents months ago but your portal still says “not received”
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Your status has remained unchanged and you’re approaching a deadline for immigration or admission
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You received confirmation of delivery through a courier or tracking number but see no acknowledgement
Practical Steps to Take When Your Status Doesn’t Update
Here’s how you can approach the situation without panicking:
1. Review the Evaluation Timeline
Every credential evaluation agency typically offers an estimated timeline on how long each phase might take. If you’re still within that range, it’s best to wait patiently. These timelines are estimates, not guarantees.
2. Check Document Requirements Again
Make sure the documents you submitted met the guidelines—were they in sealed envelopes? Were they sent directly by the institution? If something is missing or invalid, it could stall the process.
3. Log in Regularly but Don’t Obsess
Checking your status daily can add to your stress. Instead, schedule a time once or twice a week to check the portal. Look not just at the status bar but also for any new messages or updates that may not appear on the front page.
4. Keep Communication Professional
If it’s been over 6–8 weeks without progress, you may consider reaching out to the agency’s support team. Keep your tone polite and factual. Include your full name, application ID, and any relevant tracking or document submission information to help them assist you efficiently.
5. Stay Organized
Keep a personal log of all actions: when your application was submitted, when your documents were sent, confirmation emails received, and any correspondence. This will be helpful if you need to escalate your case later.
How Long Should You Wait Before Taking Action?
The general rule of thumb is:
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Wait 3–4 weeks after document submission before expecting a status update
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Wait 6–8 weeks after your application is under review before raising a query
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If documents were sent by post, allow an extra 2–3 weeks for international mail
However, if you have a tight deadline—such as an upcoming licensing exam, admission intake, or immigration hearing—it’s okay to follow up sooner with a clear explanation of the urgency.
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