Steps for Credential Evaluation of Iranian Academic Degrees in Quebec, Canada

Demande d’évaluation comparative des études effectuées hors du Québec
(Comparative Evaluation Request for Studies Completed Outside Quebec)

Comprehensive Guide for Preparing Academic Credentials for Evaluation and Comparative Assessment in Quebec

(Évaluation comparative des études effectuées hors du Québec)

This notice is addressed to all applicants intending to submit academic credentials obtained outside Canada for official comparative evaluation and recognition in the province of Quebec. Strict adherence to the rules, procedures, and requirements established by the competent authorities of Quebec is essential.

Any deficiencies, discrepancies, inconsistencies, or failure to comply with the established standards can result in rejection, suspension, or significant delays in processing the application. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that all steps be carried out carefully and with full awareness.

1. Official Translation of Academic Credentials

All academic documents, from high school diplomas to the highest university degrees, along with complete and official transcripts, must be translated into French or English by a certified translator.

Translations must:

• Be complete, accurate, and faithful to the original documents

• Contain no omissions, summaries, alterations, or personal interpretations

• Include the stamp and signature of the certified translator on all pages and be fully legally valid

Failure to comply with any of these requirements may render the translations invalid for evaluation purposes.

2. Obtaining Official Approvals from Relevant Authorities in Iran

Before official translation, original academic documents issued in Iran must be certified by the appropriate official authorities:

• Ministry of Science, Research, and Technology (for non-medical degrees)

• Ministry of Health and Medical Education (for medical degrees)

These certifications confirm the authenticity, validity, and legality of the academic credentials and must be submitted along with the original documents and official translations.

3. Translation by an OTTIAQ Certified Translator

According to Quebec regulations, all translations of academic documents must be performed by certified translators who are members of OTTIAQ (Ordre des traducteurs, terminologues et interprètes agréés du Québec).

• Translations by non-OTTIAQ translators or unauthorized translation offices are legally invalid and will not be accepted by Quebec authorities.

• Translated documents must be submitted together with the original and certified copies of the academic credentials.

4. Translations Completed in Iran

If academic translations were performed in Iran, applicants must have them reviewed, certified, and validated by an OTTIAQ certified translator after arriving in Canada.

Failure to complete this step will result in the documents being considered invalid by Quebec authorities, and the application will not enter the evaluation process.

5. Submission of Identification Documents (for Quebec Residents)

Applicants who are residents of Quebec and hold a Canadian Permanent Resident (PR) card must submit at least one of the following:

• First page of a valid passport

• Official translation of birth certificate

• PR Card or Quebec Health Insurance Card (RAMQ)

These documents are used to verify identity, residency status, and consistency of personal information.

6. Completion and Submission of the Official Evaluation Form

Applicants must complete the official form:
Demande d’évaluation comparative des études effectuées hors du Québec

• Forms must be filled out completely, accurately, legibly, and without discrepancies

• All supporting documents must be included

Errors, inconsistencies, or incomplete documentation may result in suspension, significant delays, or outright rejection.

7. Payment of Official Evaluation Fee

As of 2025, the official fee for comparative evaluation of academic credentials is CAD 138.

• This fee may change in the future based on decisions by the competent authorities

• Full payment is mandatory for the evaluation process to begin; applications without payment will not be processed under any circumstances

Summary

Proper and professional preparation of academic documents for comparative evaluation in Quebec is a specialized and sensitive process that requires accuracy, knowledge of regulations, and strict compliance with legal requirements.

Correct completion of these steps plays a critical role in the recognition of credentials and facilitates applicants’ educational, professional, and immigration pathways in Quebec.