We are asked this question again and again here at Foreign Credits. Our usual answer – "It depends." Are you applying to school, looking for a job, or immigrating to the United States? Some applicants are doing all of the above. The truth is, in the United States, degree requirements vary from place to place and what may work in one place will not work in another. A foreign degree is most often worth nothing unless it is evaluated to the US equivalency. A diploma does not mean anything to an employer or an admissions officer if he or she is not familiar with the language and meaning of what it says. Even if it is in English, foreign credentials are usually nowhere near what US colleges issue upon graduation.
A better question is, “What is an evaluation of my degree worth in the US?” Our answer is still – "It depends." To some it is worth a lot, and to others – not so much. In fact, many US employers value foreign degree evaluations higher than degrees issued in the US. The reason - even in today’s economy, there is still a shortage of talented professionals. As of March 2009, the Homeland Security Department is expected to issue 65,000 H-1B visas so that American firms can hire foreign workers. What they don’t tell you is that this number is way below the number that American companies like Microsoft are demanding.Visa requirements usually include at least a US Bachelor degree equivalent. You would rarely need anything more than a translation and a Document-by-Document evaluation. What will it be worth? Your chance to come to the US, of course. Many of our clients used our evaluation service to get their visas.
If you are already in the US, then you are in a better position, but a Document-by-Document evaluation may no longer be enough. Most US employers and educational institutions require a comprehensive, Course-by-Course evaluation. What will it be worth to them? In many cases, it will be worth what its US equivalent is worth or more. In some cases, it will be worth less. In rare cases, it will be worth little.
Foreign course credits can usually be transferred to US colleges and universities if you decide to continue your education. Being able to know a US equivalent and your Grade Point Average is usually enough for private companies and governmental agencies. For more information, send us a message or request an evaluation by filling out our online form.