Comparative evaluation of studies done outside Québec: useful or required?

Many immigration candidates wonder whether they should get their foreign diplomas "assessed" before applying to Québec. The Ministère de l'Immigration et de l'Intégration (MII, formerly MIFI) issues a document for that purpose: the comparative evaluation of studies completed outside Québec, often called the ECE after its French acronym. Here is what it is, what it is not, and when it is worth getting.

What a comparative evaluation tells you

A comparative evaluation compares two official education systems in general terms. It shows which Québec benchmarks (the main diplomas recognized in Québec) your studies completed outside Canada can be compared to.

Three points are worth keeping in mind:

• it is an expert opinion, provided for information only;
• it is neither a diploma nor a diploma equivalency;
• since September 4, 2025, the Québec field of study no longer appears on it.

Each diploma is analysed on its main features: program length, admission requirements, level of education and what the program leads to. The quality of teaching and the institution's performance do not affect the result, as long as you obtained a passing grade.

Is it required for the PSTQ?

Usually not. The Ministère states that a comparative evaluation is not required to apply for immigration. For the Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ):

• Streams 1 and 2: there is no need to request one. The information on your diploma is enough for your expression of interest and your permanent selection application. If you already hold one issued on or after January 31, 2013, you may refer to it;
• Stream 3 (regulated professions): you only need one if the regulatory authority for your profession requires it. In that case, wait until it asks you.

In other words, do not order one by reflex thinking it will strengthen your selection file.

When it can help

The comparative evaluation is first and foremost a tool for entering the job market. It creates no obligation, but it can help:

• an employer understand your level of education when hiring;
• a regulatory body review your file;
• a school assess an application for admission.

Studies that are not evaluated

Some studies are excluded, including:

• studies under a Canadian education system (the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials can point you in the right direction);
• programs shorter than one full-time school year;
• unfinished post-secondary studies;
• programs outside an official education system;
• primary and secondary schooling totalling fewer than nine years;
• certificates of competency, internship, qualification, schooling, enrolment or work experience.

Preparing the application

The application is sent on paper, using the latest version of form A-0361-FO (version 2026-03). An application sent with an older form is returned unprocessed. You must declare all your schooling from primary school onward, even programs you do not want evaluated.

Include:

• a photocopy of an identity document (passport, birth certificate or an IRCC document) and, if the name on your diplomas is different, the document explaining the change;
• your academic documents, without sending originals. Ideally, your school sends duplicates through a recognized digital platform or in a sealed envelope mailed directly to the Ministère. Other options exist, such as a copy with a verifiable QR code or a certified true copy;
• for completed post-secondary studies, the diplomas and transcripts for every year, internships included;
• a French or English translation where needed, on paper in original format, by a person holding a recognized translation certification.

You can also ask for your languages of instruction to appear on the evaluation by including a statement from your institution.

Fee and payment

Since January 1, 2026, the fee for a comparative evaluation application is $141. The amount is adjusted every January 1. Full payment goes in with the application, in Canadian dollars, made by you or by someone else.

Accepted methods: credit card (with the signed payment form attached), Canada Post money order, certified cheque or bank draft drawn on a Canadian bank, a cheque from an exchange agent or from a Canadian business. Cash, personal cheques and traveller's cheques are refused.

Mailing and published timelines

The complete application goes by mail, in a single envelope, to the address shown on Québec.ca. The Ministère publishes two targets, each covering 80% of applications:

• within 60 working days at most when the application is sent with a letter supporting priority processing;
• within six months at most for all other applications.

The count starts on the working day after the application is received. The priority letter must come from an employer (hiring, promotion or contract renewal), a Services Québec office or a regulatory authority. It must be addressed to you, dated and signed, and attached to the priority processing request form. Hiring a paid consultant does not get you priority without such a letter.

After you receive the result

A letter confirms that your file has been opened and gives its number. Once you have the result, you have 365 days to send new documents, extra information or a disagreement free of charge. After that, you need a new application and a new fee.

FAQ

Do I need an ECE to declare my education under the PSTQ?

Not for Streams 1 and 2: the Ministère says the information on your diploma is enough to complete the expression of interest and the application.

Can I send my original diplomas?

No, unless you are told otherwise. Send copies in the required formats or have your school send duplicates.

Track your file with CSQ Tracker Pro

CSQ Tracker Pro is an independent app and is not affiliated with the Government of Québec. Its estimated PSTQ score simulator takes into account the level of education you enter, and its step-by-step journey tracker helps you keep your steps in order.

Official sources

• Getting a comparative evaluation
• About comparative evaluation
• Preparing your comparative evaluation application
• Submitting your comparative evaluation application
• After submitting your comparative evaluation application
• Requirements that need to be met under the PSTQ
• Rules regarding required documents and formats

Information checked on November 5, 2026. Rules can change: always check Québec.ca before acting.