Embarking on the journey of academic credential evaluation is a significant step for individuals planning to study, immigrate, or work in a new country. One of the most frequently asked questions in this process is: When does my assessment actually begin? Understanding the timeline is crucial because it sets realistic expectations for when you can expect to receive your report and move forward with your educational or professional goals.
This blog provides a comprehensive exploration of how the credential assessment process works, including when it begins, what factors influence the timeline, and what applicants can do to ensure the process starts without delay.
The Credential Evaluation Timeline: Key Phases
The journey of academic assessment involves multiple phases, each of which must be completed before the evaluation process can officially begin. Below is a breakdown of these stages:
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Submission of the Online Application
Your first step is to complete the application form online, providing accurate personal information and selecting the type of report you require. However, the submission of this application does not mean your assessment has started. -
Payment Confirmation
Once your application is submitted, you must pay the required fee. Only after the payment is received and confirmed will your application be considered for the next stage. -
Receipt of All Required Documents
This is the most critical step in determining when your assessment begins. Evaluation agencies typically require several documents, such as:-
Transcripts sent directly from your institution
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Degree certificates
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Language translations (if applicable)
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Proof of identification
Until all required documents are received in the format specified, your application will remain incomplete.
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When Does the Assessment Officially Begin?
The actual assessment process begins only after your application is fully complete, which means:
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Your payment has been processed and confirmed
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All required documents have been received, verified, and accepted
Once both conditions are satisfied, your file is reviewed, and the official processing clock starts ticking. From this point, the evaluation agency will assign your file to an assessor, who will analyze your academic credentials to determine their equivalency in the target education system.
The start of this internal review process marks the official beginning of your assessment.
Important Considerations That Can Delay the Start
Even after submitting your application and making payment, there are several common issues that may delay the start of your assessment:
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Incomplete Documentation
If transcripts are missing, improperly sealed, or not sent directly from your institution, the agency will not proceed until the correct documents are received. -
Unverified Institutions
If the agency has trouble verifying the legitimacy of your institution, or if additional research is needed to confirm recognition status, your file may remain on hold. -
Incorrect or Unreadable Submissions
Documents that are blurry, incomplete, in the wrong language, or not properly formatted will require resubmission, further delaying the process. -
Pending Communication With Your School
In some cases, agencies reach out to your academic institution to verify authenticity. If your institution is slow to respond or requires multiple reminders, your file may not move forward promptly.
How Can You Ensure a Timely Start?
If you’re eager to have your assessment begin as quickly as possible, here are practical steps to take:
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Submit All Documents Early: Start the process of obtaining transcripts and certificates from your university as soon as you apply.
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Follow the Guidelines Closely: Ensure all documents are submitted exactly as required, including translations, seals, and formats.
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Stay in Touch With Your Institution: Follow up with your college or university to ensure they send the documents promptly.
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Monitor Your Application Status: Regularly check for updates regarding received or pending documents.
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Respond to Communication Quickly: If the assessment body contacts you for clarification or more information, provide it without delay.
How Will You Know Your Assessment Has Started?
Most credential evaluation services provide an online portal or application dashboard where you can monitor the progress of your file. Once your documents are marked as “received” and your status shows “in process” or “under evaluation,” this indicates that your assessment has officially begun.
Some agencies may also notify you via email once the evaluation team has started working on your file. At this point, your application is in the queue, and the timeline for completion starts from this date.
Average Processing Times After the Assessment Begins
Once your application enters the evaluation phase, the amount of time it takes to complete the process can vary. Typical factors that influence processing times include:
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Type of report requested (general vs. comprehensive)
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Country or region of your education
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Volume of applications currently being processed
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Complexity of your academic background
On average, evaluations may take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks from the date of processing start. Some agencies offer expedited services at an additional cost, which can shorten the turnaround time significantly.
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