WES (World Education Services): What It Is and Why You Need It for Canada
If you're going to Canada for work or to live there permanently, you'll hear the term "WES" very early on.
This step is confusing for a lot of people who are applying. What does WES mean? Why does Canada want it? And how does it change your PR points?
This page breaks down WES (World Education Services) into simple terms so you know what to expect and how to move forward with confidence.
What is WES? (Meaning in Simple Terms)
WES stands for World Education Services.
WES checks your educational qualifications and compares them to the standards for education in Canada.
When people ask, "What is WES?" If you want to know what WES means, the answer is simple:
WES helps Canada figure out how much your degree, diploma, or certificate is worth in their system.
What WES World Education Services Does
WES World Education Services is a well-known organization around the world that checks the credentials of people who have studied abroad. It works with governments, colleges, businesses, and immigration officials.
WES is one of the most common organizations that can give an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for immigration to Canada.
That’s why you’ll often hear:
- WES for ECA
- ECA from WES
- WES in Canada
These all talk about the same thing.
What is WES in Canada, and why do you need it?
So, what exactly is WES in Canada used for?
People from all over the world, with different education systems, apply to Canada. The government needs a standard way to judge education so that everyone has a fair chance.
That's where WES services Canada come in.
WES confirms:
- If your degree is real
- What level it is in Canada (diploma, bachelor's, master's, etc.)
You can't get immigration points for your foreign education without this test.
How WES for ECA Works
When you apply for WES for ECA, WES looks over your school records and sends you an ECA report.
This report tells Canada Immigration:
- Your highest level of education
- Its Canadian equivalent
An ECA from WES is mandatory for:
- Express Entry
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Many Provincial Nominee Programs
Without ECA, your profile remains incomplete
Documents Required for WES Evaluation
- Academic transcripts (sent directly by the university)
- Degree or diploma certificate
- Identity details
- WES reference number
It's important to follow directions exactly. One of the most common reasons for delays is submitting the wrong documents.
WES Processing Time and Validity
- Processing time: Usually 4 to 8 weeks after documents are received
- Validity: A WES ECA report is valid for 5 years.
This means that you can use the same report for more than one immigration application during that time.
Things People Often Do Wrong with WES
A lot of applicants have to wait longer because of small mistakes, like:
- Sending documents themselves instead of through the university
- Choosing the wrong evaluation type
- Entering incorrect education details
- Missing document requirements
A small mistake can set back your PR plans by months, so it's important to get help.
(FAQs)
- What does WES do in Canada?
WES is used to check foreign education so that it can be accepted for jobs and immigration to Canada.
- Is it necessary to have WES to get Canada PR?
Yes. You need WES for ECA (or another approved body) if your education is from outside Canada.
- How long is the ECA from WES good for?
A WES ECA report is valid for five years from the date of issue.
- Is it possible to apply for Express Entry without WES?
You can make a profile, but you won't get any education points unless you have an ECA from WES or another approved group.
- Is WES the only choice for ECA?
No, but WES World Education Services is the most popular and accepted option for Canada immigration.
Are you ready to see if you can get Canada PR?
WES is only one step in the process of getting Canada PR.
Your age, work experience, language scores, and education all play a role in how likely you are to get the job.
Our experts can look over your profile and give you clear advice if you're not sure where you stand.
Find out if you can get Canada PR today and get help from experts at every step.
