Do I Need to Get My Wife's Education Evaluated for Canada's Express Entry Program?

In Canada's Express Entry system, only the principal applicant's educational credentials need to be evaluated by a designated organization like World Education Services (WES) if the applicant is claiming points for education. However, if your wife is also planning to apply for permanent residence, or if her education can contribute to your overall CRS score, it is beneficial to have her credentials evaluated.

Key Points to Consider

Principal Applicant

If you are the principal applicant and are only claiming points for your own education, then only your credentials need to be evaluated.

Spousal Points

If you want to claim additional points for your wife's education, her credentials will need to be evaluated. This can boost your overall CRS score and make your application more competitive.

Future Considerations

Even if you are not including her education in your CRS score now, having her credentials evaluated could be helpful in the future for work or study in Canada. It can also provide an advantage in scenarios where additional points for education are required.

Express Entry Profile

You can include your wife's education in your Express Entry profile if it is evaluated, which can enhance your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. This proactive move can significantly impact your application's success.

When Is Evaluation Necessary?

Claiming Educational Points

If you are intending to claim points for your wife's education, you will need to submit her credentials to WES. This is mandatory to ensure that her educational qualifications are recognized in the CRS scoring system.

Future Applications and Job Searches

Even if you are not including her education for immediate points, having her credentials evaluated can be advantageous. It can open doors for future job opportunities and applications, especially if she plans to work or study in Canada.

Steps for WES Evaluation

For a smooth and efficient process, it's important to follow the steps for WES evaluation. I have created a short video that guides you through the WES process. Watching this video can help you understand the necessary documents and steps. Check it out for a detailed walkthrough.

Prioritizing Your CRS Score

Before proceeding with WES evaluation, it's a good idea to check your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score. Understanding your current score can give you a better idea of how your wife's educational qualifications can impact your overall application.

Conclusion

Deciding whether to get your wife's education evaluated depends on your specific situation and goals. If you expect to benefit from additional points for her education, or if you are planning her future in Canada, then WES evaluation is undoubtedly worthwhile.

Additional Tips

Having good education and language skills can significantly enhance your CRS score. If these qualities are present, it is highly recommended to include both your and your wife's credentials in your application. This proactive approach can make a substantial difference in the CRSS score.