Overview
This article is intended for international applicants and students who have completed coursework or degrees outside the United States and need to understand how their academic records will be evaluated. Readers will benefit from learning when an external credential evaluation is required, which organizations to use, and where to go for support, helping them navigate the admissions and transfer credit process with confidence.
External Credential Evaluation
For international coursework and degrees, Minnesota State University, Mankato relies on external credential evaluation organizations that are members of the National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES).
Applicants are strongly encouraged to use Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) and to request a course-by-course evaluation.
Recommended Process
F-1 international students are encouraged to submit their ECE request through the Kearney International Center (KIC) Portal. The KIC has an exclusive use agreement with ECE that provides a discounted evaluation cost.
Exception:
Minnesota State Mankato does NOT require an external credential evaluation for the following institutions:
- University of Grand Bassam
- DUNIS
- Pertamina University
Important Information About Credential Evaluations
Credential evaluation organizations review international academic records to determine U.S. degree equivalency and how coursework may translate into U.S. academic credit.
Minnesota State University, Mankato:
- Does not evaluate international credentials
- Does not determine degree equivalencies
Students are responsible for:
- Selecting an approved credential evaluation organization
- Submitting required documents
- Meeting submission deadlines
- Paying all associated fees
- Requesting the correct evaluation type
Questions Regarding the External Credential Evaluation
All questions related to the evaluation process—including required documents, report status, corrections, or appeals—must be directed to the credential evaluation organization. Each organization independently manages its review and appeal procedures.
Once the official evaluation report is received by Minnesota State Mankato, it will be used in the university’s transfer credit evaluation process in accordance with the information provided in the report.
Still Need Help?
- F-1 international students with questions about submitting an ECE should contact the Kearney International Center.
- All other international students with questions about requesting or submitting an external credential evaluation, or about their completed transfer evaluation, should contact Registration and Academic Records.