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WES Evaluation for UK Degrees: What You Need to Know for 2026

 Introduction:

For professionals in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, a British degree is often the "golden ticket" to global career advancement and migration. However, possessing the degree is only half the battle. To unlock the doors to Canada, the USA, or elite multinational roles, you must bridge the "Trust Gap" through a formal WES (World Education Services) evaluation.

As we move into 2026, the requirements for credential assessments are becoming more digital and more precise. Whether you are targeting immigration to Canada from the UAE or seeking a promotion in Riyadh, understanding the WES process is non-negotiable.

What is WES Evaluation and Why Does it Matter?

A WES evaluation is a formal credential assessment that compares your UK educational achievements to the standards of the US or Canadian systems. It verifies three critical factors:

  • Authenticity: Confirming your degree is legitimate and issued by a recognized body.

  • Recognition: Ensuring the institution is Ofqual Regulated or part of the UK’s recognized degree-awarding framework.

  • Equivalency: Determining if your UK Master’s or Bachelor’s is equal to its North American counterpart.

For those pursuing immigration to Canada or the USA from the UAE, a WES Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) is a mandatory requirement for programs like Express Entry.

The 2026 WES Process: Step-by-Step for Gulf Professionals

Navigating the WES process can be daunting, but following this structured path ensures a smooth assessment:

  1. Create Your WES Account: Select your destination (Canada or USA) and receive your unique Reference Number.

  2. Verify Accreditation: Ensure your degree is Ofqual Regulated. At International College, our programs meet these rigorous UK government standards, making them high-priority for WES recognition.

  3. Request Official Transcripts: Documents must be sent directly from the awarding body to WES in a sealed envelope or via an approved digital channel.

  4. Attestation Requirements: While WES verifies the degree directly, regional employers in the UAE or KSA may also require UK Embassy attestation or MOFA stamps to verify the document's legal status locally.

  5. Track Your Application: Standard processing for 2026 is estimated at 35 business days once all documents are received.

Avoiding the "Trust Gap": Accreditation is Key

The most common reason for a failed WES evaluation is a lack of proper accreditation. WES and other assessment bodies look for specific markers of quality:

  • Ofqual Regulation: This is the "gold standard" for UK vocational and professional qualifications.

  • WES-Recognized Institutions: Degrees must be awarded by bodies recognized by the UK government (OfS).

  • WES Recognition: Our graduates benefit from a seamless process because International College aligns with recognized UK awarding bodies that have established digital partnerships with WES.

WES for Global Migration (2026 Update)

If your goal is immigration to Canada from the UAE, the WES ECA remains valid for five years. In 2026, WES has further streamlined digital document submission, but they have also announced a 3% price increase starting January 1st to keep pace with global standards.

For professionals in the UAE, utilizing a verified UK degree for a credential assessment can provide the necessary points for "Comprehensive Ranking System" (CRS) scores, significantly boosting your chances of a successful invitation to apply (ITA).

Conclusion: Secure Your Future with Verified Education

A WES evaluation is more than just a report; it is the final seal of approval on your academic journey. By choosing an Ofqual-regulated degree from International College, you are not just getting an education—you are getting a globally portable asset that is ready for UK Embassy attestation and WES recognition.

Don't let your hard work go unrecognized. Ensure your credentials stand up to the highest international scrutiny.

Ready to Start Your Global Journey?