You have a diploma obtained abroad and want to have it recognized in Quebec? The process may seem complex, but by understanding the steps and organizations involved, you can navigate the system with confidence.
Understanding the difference between evaluation and equivalence
First essential distinction: a comparative evaluation is not a diploma equivalence. The comparative evaluation of studies completed outside Quebec, issued by the ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI), is an expert opinion that indicates which Quebec educational benchmarks correspond to your studies. It's a professional integration tool that helps employers understand your background. A diploma equivalence, on the other hand, is granted by a professional order or educational institution and may involve bridging courses or exams.
Step 1: Comparative evaluation (MIFI)
For most non-regulated jobs, the MIFI comparative evaluation is sufficient.
Required documents: application form A-0361-FO (most recent version), photocopy of identification, your diplomas and detailed transcripts for each year of post-secondary studies. If your documents are not in French or English, a certified translation by a certified translator is required.
Cost: approximately $140 (a rate reassessed annually on January 1st; check the current amount on Quebec.ca) per evaluation. Processing time: variable, allow several weeks. If you have a job offer, your employer can request priority processing at no additional cost.
Step 2: WES evaluation (for federal immigration)
If you're in the immigration process through Express Entry (federal), you'll need an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from a designated organization like World Education Services (WES). Important: the WES evaluation for immigration and the MIFI comparative evaluation are two different things and are not interchangeable.
Step 3: Regulated professions
If your profession is regulated in Quebec (engineer, nurse, accountant, physician, architect, lawyer, etc.), you must obtain a practice permit from the relevant professional order. Generally: submit your academic documents and experience, possibly complete bridging courses, complete a supervised internship, demonstrate your professional French proficiency.
The Qualifications Québec portal is your best starting point. Realistic timeframe: from several months to a few years depending on the profession.
Step 4: Trades and technical training
For construction trades and certain technical training, contact Emploi-Québec or the sectoral workforce committees. Recognition of Prior Learning and Skills (RAC) programs are offered by cégeps.
Practical tips
Start early: begin your process before your arrival if possible. Have your documents translated by an OTTIAQ certified translator ($50 to $100 per page). Don't remain inactive: look for related employment during the process. Use CARI's free resources.
