Credential Evaluation for International Applicants

What is a Credential Evaluation?

It is the review of academic documents, such as transcripts and degree certificates, to:

• determine degree equivalency
• calculate a grade point average (GPA)
• make sure institutions hold the proper accreditation
• ensure document authenticity

Why should I order a Credential Evaluation?

The Office of Graduate Education (OGE) must verify and evaluate academic documents for every student after the first admit is received. Students who submit an international credential evaluation from an approved provider allow OGE to complete its review more quickly. This may enable you to receive your second and final admission decision much sooner.

If you have already obtained a credential evaluation from one of our approved providers, please request that they send a copy directly to OGE.

How Does a Credential Evaluation Fit into the Admission Process?

OGE strongly recommends that applicants submit a credential evaluation from an approved provider at the time of application. However, applicants may instead choose to submit a credential evaluation after receiving their first admit decision. More information about the graduate admissions process can be found at Graduate Admissions Process | Georgia Tech Catalog.

While submitting a credential evaluation is not required, they greatly assist with streamlining OGE's academic credential review process. The diagram below shows where a credential evaluation fits within the graduate admissions process.

Diagram Text Description

1. Applicant submits application.
2. Graduate Program evaluates application and makes admission decision based on the program's specific requirements.
   1. What does this mean? The specific program will admit or deny you.
      • This is the first admit.
3. The applicant is admitted.
   1. Yay! The program wants you.
4. OGE verifies academic credentials and makes sure the applicant meets Georgia Tech's Institute-level requirements. Submitting a credential evaluation speeds up this process.
   1. OGE checks your academic documents and will notify you if additional information is needed.
      • OGE will issue the second admit, which finalizes admission.

Important Information about Credential Evaluations

• All verified academic documents sent to us by an approved service will be considered official. Please note that Georgia Tech may request additional academic documents from you, if necessary, to complete the verification process.
• Review Georgia Tech’s Country-Specific Requirements before requesting an evaluation and ensure your credentials meet the minimum academic requirements.
• A credential evaluation is advisory and does not determine whether you meet Georgia Tech’s admission requirements.

Approved Credential Evaluation Services