Course by Course Evaluation vs. Document-by-Document Evaluation: Key Differences Explained
aaeevaluations 
Introduction
When students or professionals move to another country for higher studies, employment, or licensing, their academic qualifications must be evaluated in a format that institutions in the destination country can understand. Because educational systems differ in grading methods, credit hours, and degree structures, credential evaluation becomes necessary to confirm the academic level and value of your education.
Two major evaluation formats are commonly used:
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Document-by-Document Evaluation
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Understanding the difference between these two helps you choose the correct evaluation and avoid delays in your admission or licensing process.
Why Credential Evaluation Is Important
Different countries follow different academic systems. For example:
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Degree lengths may be 2, 3, or 4 years
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Grading may be based on percentages, grade points, or letter grades
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Some programs offer credit hours, while others do not
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Subject depth and course load can vary greatly
Because of these differences, the academic value of your degree may not be automatically recognized in another country. Credential evaluation ensures your education is interpreted correctly and fairly.
What is Document-by-Document Evaluation?
A Document-by-Document Evaluation provides a general verification of your educational background. It confirms:
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Your academic documents are authentic
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Your institution is recognized
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Your degree is equivalent to a degree in the destination country
This evaluation does not include subject-level details. It does not calculate GPA or convert credits. It simply identifies the level of your education.
When Document-by-Document Evaluation Is Used
You would choose this format if:
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You are applying for general employment
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You are submitting documents for immigration
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You need basic proof of your degree level
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You are not transferring academic credits
This is typically the faster and more affordable evaluation option.
What is Course by Course Evaluation?
A Course by Course Evaluation is a more detailed academic assessment. It examines each subject you studied during your program.
This evaluation includes:
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A complete list of courses completed
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Conversion of grades to the U.S. 4.0 GPA scale
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Conversion of credits into U.S. semester credits
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Calculation of cumulative GPA
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Degree equivalency confirmation
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Verification of institutional recognition
This format allows educational institutions and licensing bodies to clearly understand your academic performance and training.
When Course by Course Evaluation Is Required
You should choose this format if:
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You are applying for admission to a college or university
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You need to transfer credits to continue your studies
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You are applying for professional licensing (e.g., nursing, engineering, accounting, teaching)
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You are applying for scholarships and need a standardized GPA
This format ensures fairness and clarity when evaluating your academic background.
Why Choosing the Correct Evaluation Matters
Selecting the wrong evaluation format can cause problems like:
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Application rejection
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Loss of transferable credits
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Delay in admission or licensing
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Repeating subjects you already completed
If your goal is education or professional licensing, always choose Course by Course Evaluation.
Final Thoughts
Both evaluation formats have their importance:
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Document-by-Document Evaluation is suitable when you only need your degree level verified, such as for employment or immigration.
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Course by Course Evaluation is essential for university admissions, credit transfer, scholarships, and professional licensing, because it provides detailed academic breakdown.
Choosing the right format ensures your education is accurately recognized and helps you move forward smoothly in your academic or professional journey.
