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How do I get my university credits evaluated for equivalency?

Credit equivalency for the H-1B comes from a recognized credential evaluation agency that compares your foreign degree to U.S. standards. Learn what documents you need and how to avoid unrealistic promises.

Written by

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Updated on July 13, 2026
1 min read
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Credit equivalency is typically obtained through a recognized credential evaluation agency. For the H-1B, this evaluation helps demonstrate that your foreign degree is equivalent to a U.S. degree, which authorities commonly consider when assessing your professional qualifications.

The first step is to find one of these agencies (many are members of organizations such as the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES)). They review your academic transcripts, diplomas, and certificates to assess whether your coursework and credit hours are compatible with U.S. educational standards.

  • Certified copies of diplomas and academic transcripts.
  • Certified translations of documents, when required.
  • Any additional certificates that support your educational background.

Be cautious of services that promise guaranteed equivalency or visa approval without a thorough review. The recommended approach is to check the latest guidance from official sources or with a qualified professional before you begin.

Learn more about H-1B

Initial validity
3 years
Extension
Up to 6 years total
Annual cap
85,000 visas
Processing
6-12 months
All about H-1B

About the author

Victoria Harper

Editor-in-Chief

Meet the author

As a journalist and lead editor at Visto n’ Visa, Victoria helps ensure that immigration topics are covered in a clear, trustworthy, and easy-to-understand way. Her focus is on delivering useful, human, and relevant content for people exploring new paths abroad.

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How do I get my university credits evaluated for equivalency?

Credit equivalency for the H-1B comes from a recognized credential evaluation agency that compares your foreign degree to U.S. standards. Learn what documents you need and how to avoid unrealistic promises.

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