If you’ve earned a degree from a US college or university and are considering immigrating to Canada, you’re likely wondering: Will my US degree help me get Canadian permanent residency (PR)? The answer is yes—a US degree is generally recognized and can significantly benefit your Canadian PR application, provided you follow the right steps.
1. Is a US Degree Valid for Canadian Immigration?
Most US degrees from accredited institutions are considered equivalent to Canadian degrees for immigration purposes. The Canadian government recognizes the high standard and rigor of US education, so your degree will typically be accepted as long as it’s from a regionally accredited school .
2. Educational Credential Assessment (ECA): The Key Step
To use your US degree for Canadian immigration, you must obtain an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from an approved organization such as WES (World Education Services) or ICAS. The ECA verifies that your US degree is equivalent to a Canadian credential.
Key points:
- ECA is mandatory for Express Entry and most skilled worker programs.
- Most US bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees from accredited institutions are recognized as equivalent.
- If your degree is from a nationally accredited (not regionally accredited) US institution, it may not be accepted by WES or ICAS, so check accreditation before applying .
3. How Does a US Degree Affect Your CRS Score?
Canada’s Express Entry system uses the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to rank candidates. Education is a major factor in your CRS score:
| Level of Education (per ECA) | CRS Points (Single Applicant) | CRS Points (With Spouse) |
| Bachelor’s degree | Up to 120 | Up to 112 |
| Master’s/Professional degree | Up to 135 | Up to 126 |
| PhD | Up to 150 | Up to 140 |
A US degree can help you score higher, especially if combined with strong language test results and skilled work experience. However, the CRS is competitive, and other factors like age, work experience, and language ability also play a role.
4. US Degree vs. Canadian Degree: Is There a Difference?
For immigration purposes, a US degree is generally treated the same as a Canadian degree if the ECA confirms equivalency . However, having a Canadian degree (especially with Canadian work experience) can provide additional advantages, such as eligibility for the Canadian Experience Class and extra CRS points for Canadian education and work .
5. What About Employment in Canada?
While your US degree will be recognized for immigration, Canadian employers will also value your US education, especially if it’s in a field with high demand. However, some regulated professions (like law, medicine, or engineering) may require additional certification or licensing in Canada .
6. Common Questions
Q: Do I need to get my US degree evaluated for Canadian PR?
A: Yes, you must get an ECA from an approved organization like WES or ICAS .
Q: Will my US work experience count?
A: Yes, US work experience can also earn you CRS points, but Canadian work experience is valued even more highly.
Q: What if my degree is not regionally accredited?
A: Degrees from nationally accredited US institutions may not be accepted by WES or ICAS. Always check accreditation before applying .
7. Steps to Maximize Your PR Chances with a US Degree
- Check your school’s accreditation (preferably regional).
- Obtain an ECA for your US degree.
- Prepare for language testing (IELTS or CELPIP).
- Gather proof of skilled work experience (US or Canadian).
- Submit your Express Entry profile and monitor your CRS score.
8. Need Help Navigating the Process?
Earnest Immigration is a CICC Registered Immigration Consultant specializing in helping Americans and international students with US degrees achieve Canadian permanent residency. We offer:
- Personalized eligibility assessments
- Guidance on ECA and documentation
- Full support for Express Entry and other PR pathways
Contact Earnest Immigration today for expert help with your Canadian PR journey!
