Common ECA Mistakes That Lead to Rejection — And How to Avoid Them

If you’re applying for Canada PR, your ECA (Educational Credential Assessment) is one document you can’t afford to get wrong. A single mismatch in your application can delay your PR, reduce your CRS score, or even lead to rejection.
And trust me — most rejections happen due to small, avoidable mistakes.

So in this blog, let me walk you through the most common ECA mistakes people make and how you can avoid them easily, saving your time, money, and peace of mind.

Choosing the Wrong ECA Organization

Different ECA bodies evaluate different types of qualifications.
For example, WES rejects many distance-learning degrees, while IQAS may take longer but accepts more variation in programs.

How to avoid it:

• Check the accepted qualifications list of each agency
• Pick an organization that is ideal for your specific degree or university
• Compare processing times, fees, and acceptance patterns

Not Sending Documents in the Required Format

Every ECA organization has its own strict document rules—sealed envelopes, official transcripts, digital uploads, or university-sent records.

How to avoid it:

• Follow the exact instructions given by the organization
• Make sure your university sends transcripts directly (if required)
• Double-check whether you need attested copies or originals

Submitting Incomplete or Incorrect Education Details

Many applicants forget to mention a diploma, certificate, or an additional degree—resulting in mismatch and rejection.

How to avoid it:

• List all your post-secondary education
• Match names, dates, and program titles exactly as per your documents
• Don’t skip any qualification thinking “this one doesn’t matter”

Using the Wrong Name or Different Spellings

A very common issue: Name mismatch
Even slight variations like Kumar vs. Kumaar or missing middle names can trigger a problem.

How to avoid it:

• Ensure your name matches passport, degree, and transcripts
• If spelling differs, attach an affidavit or additional ID
• Update your university records before requesting transcripts

Sending Unverified or Unofficial Documents

Some candidates send photocopies, scanned PDFs, or self-attested documents—not allowed by most agencies.

How to avoid it:

• Always send official transcripts
• Make sure your university registrar seals and stamps the envelope
• Confirm whether digital submission is accepted for your country

Not Checking University Accreditation

If your college is not recognized or accredited, your ECA may return “not equivalent,” which directly affects your CRS.

How to avoid it:

• Verify if your institution is recognized by UGC/AICTE (India)
• Search your university on the ECA organization’s equivalency database

Ignoring Email Updates from the ECA Agency

Many people miss important emails asking for additional documents or clarification.
Result? The application gets delayed—or worse, closed.

How to avoid it:

• Check your email and spam folder regularly
• Respond quickly if the agency asks for more info
• Keep your file number handy for any inquiry

Not Mentioning the Correct Reason for ECA

If you choose the wrong purpose (e.g., employment instead of immigration), your ECA report may not be valid for Express Entry.

How to avoid it:

• Always select: ECA for Immigration (Express Entry)
• Review all steps before paying the fees

Not Verifying the Final ECA Report

Some applicants don’t review the final document, and later find out mistakes—after submission to IRCC.

How to avoid it:

• Check your name, DOB, degree name, and equivalency
• Ensure all credentials are included
• If anything is missing, request a correction immediately

Conclusion

Your ECA is the first major step in your Canada PR journey, and mistakes here can cost you months of delay. When you prepare your documents carefully, choose the right organization, and follow their instructions exactly, you can avoid rejection easily.

If you’re planning your PR process, take your time with the ECA.
One careful step now saves you from a long wait later.

With years of experience handling ECA cases, I can help you choose the right agency and prepare everything properly.

Book your free ECA guidance call and avoid the mistakes most people make.