Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to have original documents mailed back?

The return-mailing fee is $25 for applicants who submit original documents and want them mailed back. Do not send irreplaceable original documents unless IFCS specifically requests them.

What type of evaluation is right for me?

The right evaluation depends on why you need it and what the receiving organization requires:

  • General Analysis: Employment, immigration, or military purposes.
  • General Analysis plus GPA: Undergraduate or graduate admission when transfer credit is not requested.
  • Course-by-Course: Secondary or post-secondary admission, transfer credit, or detailed academic review.
  • Comprehensive Course-by-Course: Graduate admission and professional licensing requiring additional academic detail.
  • Health Professions Course-by-Course: Healthcare education and U.S. healthcare licensing.

Applicants are responsible for confirming the required evaluation type with the organization receiving the report before placing an order.

What documents are required to complete my evaluation?

Document names vary by country and institution. In most cases, IFCS requires:

  • Proof of the qualification awarded: A diploma, degree certificate, graduation certificate, leaving certificate, or award certificate.
  • Complete academic record: A transcript, statement of marks, mark sheet, grade report, academic record, or examination results.

Submit both the document confirming the award and the academic record showing the subjects studied and grades earned. Visit our Evaluations page for service-specific requirements.

How should I send my application and supporting documents to IFCS?

Applying online is recommended. Submit your application and supporting documents through our Evaluations page.

You may also apply in person between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. on business days. No appointment is required. Completed applications and supporting documents may also be mailed to:

IFCS
6 Cedar Street
Dobbs Ferry, NY 10522

If I require assistance filling out my application, does IFCS offer personal guidance?

Yes. Clients may call or email IFCS during normal business hours to receive assistance from an evaluator with the application process.

When should I arrange to send official documents?

IFCS processes your application within 24–48 hours after submission and sends you an IFCS ID number. Once you receive your IFCS ID, contact the issuing institution and request that your official documents be sent directly to IFCS.

The institution should include your IFCS ID with the documents so they can be matched to your application.

How does IFCS receive official documents?

IFCS accepts official documents by email when sent directly by the issuing institution from a verifiable institutional email address authorized to send official records. Official documents may also be submitted by mail in an envelope sealed by the issuing institution.

Documents sent from personal email accounts or submitted in opened envelopes are not considered official.

How long does it take to get an evaluation done?

Evaluations are typically completed within 8–10 business days. However, document verification may take longer than the selected service timeframe. Reports are released only after the issuing institution confirms that the documents are authentic.

The 24-hour priority and three-day rush processing periods begin after verification is complete. IFCS is not responsible for verification delays. Applicants who arrange for official documents to be sent directly must contact and follow up with the issuing institution.

What is the difference between an evaluation and translation?

An evaluation determines the U.S. educational equivalency of credentials earned outside the United States. It reviews the qualification, institution, program length, level of study, and academic record.

A translation converts the document’s text from its original language into English. It does not determine U.S. equivalency. Translations must be completed by an ATA-certified translator or by a certified, sworn, or legally authorized translator recognized by the appropriate authority in the country where the translation is completed. Translation fees are separate and are not included in the evaluation fee.

What if I do not agree with my evaluation results?

Submit a written review request within five business days of receiving the report. Clearly explain your concerns and include a copy of the evaluation report. IFCS will respond within 24–48 hours and review the evaluation for possible errors. A different evaluation result is not guaranteed.

What if I want a refund?

Applications for standard 8–10 business-day service may be canceled only by submitting a written request within 24 hours of application submission. If the cancellation request is approved, a $50 processing fee will be charged.

The three-day rush, 24-hour priority, and document verification services are nonrefundable. No cancellations will be approved and no money will be refunded for these services.

How much does a duplicate report cost?

Duplicate reports cost $25 for an electronic report or $25 for each hard copy. They may be ordered only within five years of the date IFCS completed the original evaluation. Applicable delivery charges may be added for hard-copy delivery. Order through our Duplicate Reports page.

How long does IFCS archive my evaluation report?

IFCS retains a digital copy of an evaluation report for up to five years from its issue date. After five years, the report may be permanently deleted and additional copies may no longer be available. Applicants should keep a copy for their records.