ComplaintsforInternational Education Research Foundation

• Initial Complaint

  03/26/2024

  Complaint Type:

  Product Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  Firstly, despite paying for return shipping, my documents still have not been returned to me roughly 3 months later. This is despite sustained efforts to contact the IERF over phone and email, all of which have been unsuccessful. Secondly, the 5 day rush service which was paid for was not provided. While the application was received by IERF on December 19th, 2023, the certificate was not mailed until January 5, 2024. This delay resulted in monetary damages and a lapse in health insurance coverage.

  Business response

  03/29/2024

  
  We refer to the complaint regarding
  1) the 5-Day Rush; and
  2) return of documents
  IERFs response is as follows:
  
  We received the application on 12/19/23. We were informed by the applicant that there were academic records enroute to our offices and our office received those records on 12/22/23. Our records indicate that the complainants file was activated on 12/22/23 as a 5-Day Rush with a completion date of 01/05.
  Please note the 5-Day Rush is sent out in 5 business days once our office is in receipt of all the required documents and fees and does not include office closures, holidays, etc. During this time, IERF closed for the winter holiday from 12/25/23-01/01/24, re-opening on 01/02/24.
  When the applicants file was activated, the following email communication was sent: Your file is being processed by an evaluator at this time. It is scheduled to be sent out in 5 business days from the receipt of all required documentation (and/or fees). Please note that our office will close for the winter break from Monday, December 25th through Monday, January 1st.
  
  Due to the winter holiday, the file was completed on 01/05/24, within the 5-Day (5 Business Day) Rush timeframe.
  
  The complainants academic records have been mailed as at 03/26/24. There was a delay returning the documents as our office had not received confirmation whether the applicant wanted the academic records shipped back via regular or secure mailing. This email was sent on 01/05/24 following the completion of the report. Once this office received confirmation on 03/25 the documents were immediately prepared for mailing and mailed on 03/26/24.
  
  We trust that our response provides clarity as to our position that we have provided the service that was paid for and that no refund is owing. We take this opportunity to wish the applicant much success in her future endeavors.

• Initial Complaint

  11/07/2023

  Complaint Type:

  Product Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I paid to International Education Report Foundation $110 to get my degree equivalency report done. I had paid them to get my report done twice before. The first time was ****, the second time was2017. Since I have all my document I sent to them and they sent me back after the evaluation, I choose them this time again for my medical license purpose. I sent all my transcript which must be through mail to them on 9/28/2023. I scan all my degree certificates and emailed them per their request. I thought I was sending them exactly same things as last two times, once they received them through **** on 10/1/2023, it will take 15 days for me to get my report. On Monday they said they did not received my **** mail which said it was delivered at noon. I email them back and forth and they keep saying due to public health and social measure might cause disruption. Until 10/05/23 they finally said they was able to get my document. At this point I am still hoping they will follow their 15 days time line and I still can meet my transferring date. On Oct. 11 they emailed me said they need my degree translation. I emailed them telling them I already included my translation in the mail. They sent me the same requesting translation email every time I asked them why they asked something different from last two times. I know they will not work on my report if I insist they already have it. I spend $25 to get my degree translated again and sent to them. Finally on Oct ************************************************************************************** and will take 15 days to review.Today is Nov 2 and already miss my job transferring date. -From 9/28/23 to 11/2/2023 did not meet 15 days guideline -Why they request the document different from last two times? So the last two times they gave false report?-This time they also request my Master degree cert translation, I asked them only evaluate my bachelor degree. They did my Master degree anyway without translation.

  Business response

  11/13/2023

  ************ indicates that IERF had her academic documents from ****.  IERFs Terms and Conditions to which she agreed expressly states the following:
  Please note that there is a two-year limit from the date that the report was issued on requests for copies of any evaluation. For evaluations issued prior to the two-year limit, a new report and new application fees are required. 
  Although we provided ************ with a detailed explanation of the document that we required to process her report, we only received this from her on October 16, 2023. Thus, it was only at that time that we were able to activate her case and start processing her evaluation report. IERFs published turnaround time commences only once it is in receipt of all the documentation necessary to begin processing the evaluation. As soon as we received the missing document, IERF sent an email to ************ stating that the case was activated with a 15-business day turnaround time.. On November 3, 2023, her evaluation report was mailed to her. As such,IERF met the 15-business day turnaround as advertised.
  
  We are sorry to learn that she missed her deadline. IERF does offer rush services, however, ************ did not choose to avail herself of a rush service.
  
  We trust that this information provides further clarity to the situation. We wish ************ much success in her future endeavors.
  

• Initial Complaint

  04/27/2023

  Complaint Type:

  Product Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  It's been almost a month(March 29th) ,(IERF #: S23-02186) since I sent my credentials for evaluation(For Military Enlistment). It's stated on their website 10 working days, while on the email, more or less 15 days. I can't make calls on their landline instead it takes me to inquire on their website, which takes 3 days for them to reply, ( basic automated response). With no concrete explanation nor update to what's really happening. I paid $205 dollars and until the now, I only got an email stating that my credentials - "is just being currently reviewed". (IERF #: S23-02186)

  Business response

  05/01/2023

   

  To whom it may concern

  We are sorry to learn of the frustration and dissatisfaction that the complainant has experienced with IERF's services, particularly with regards to the processing time. We want you to know that we have carefully investigated this matter in that we reviewed all notes that were logged. We also interviewed all staff that assisted with the processing of of the complainant's case. We want you to know that much time and effort was spent by this Agency reviewing his case and completing his evaluation within the designated timeframe of a minimum of 15 business days for standard files.
  
  Although the complainant submitted his online application and fees to ** our Foundation on March 27, 2023, we only received all the required documentation (physical original academic records as required based on the country specific requirements) from him on March 30, 2023. Therefore, his file became activated on March 30 and was completed within the designated timeframe. His 1 sealed official evaluation report as well as documents were mailed on Thursday, April 27, 2023. It was sent via *** #1Z 990 721 42 **** ****. We trust that this provides clarity.
  
  

• Initial Complaint

  02/25/2023

  Complaint Type:

  Order Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  A couple of months ago, I submitted a request to have two diplomas evaluated from the same foreign school. Since I only had one official diploma and not for the other, I withdrew the application to evaluate both diplomas. These diplomas are separate years and separate graduation dates. They are not dependent on each other in any way. The one I requested the evaluation first is the degree that I obtained first and that is the only one that is needed to be evaluated. Now, I have been admitted to the graduate program and submitted an application specific to this school to evaluate only one diploma. I paid the fees and submitted the diploma with the hard original. IERF now decided to merge my old application with two diplomas with the new application. I do not quite understand why. I requested to evaluate only 1 diploma which is complete on its own, came before any and all other degrees and credentials and not dependent on other schools or degrees. Now, the request is to send the hard original of the second degree from different years. Why? This is not the evaluation I requested. I have other foreign credentials in addition to the one I requested to evaluated but I am not requesting to evaluate all of them. Please evaluate the diploma that was provided. That is the only one that I have now and the only one that I mailed. It is a completed Bachelors degree (and you already evaluated it several years ago). It is not contingent or dependent on anything else or any other school. Like I said, I do have other foreign credentials but I am not requesting to evaluate them as they are not the credentials in question at this point.

  Business response

  03/01/2023

  As per IERF policy, all IERF applicants are only permitted to have 1 IERF file number under their name. Our records indicated that the complainant has 2 different files: File numbers S23-01161 and P06-16551. The correct IERF file number is P06-16551. To lessen confusion and to follow our policy in place, the file number S23-01161 has been deleted. In addition, we have reviewed the complainant's emails and documents submitted on 02/27/23 and per the applicant's request, we will only evaluate the  studies from **** to ****. As a courtesy, the evaluation will be completed in 10 business days at no additional cost to the complainant. Please accept this as a gesture of goodwill on our part. Our office has already communicated with the complainant which is what the desired outcome was.

  Customer response

  03/01/2023

   
  Better Business Bureau:
  
  I have reviewed the response made by the business in reference to complaint ID ********, and find that this resolution is satisfactory to me.
  
  Sincerely,
  
  ********************

• Initial Complaint

  12/14/2022

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  This business is mandated use through academic institutions to verify academic records of foreign students. Business claims they will assist students in obtaining verification of their academic records yet they provide the run around to students by claiming what they submit doesn't met their digital verification methods. Even when academic records are sent directly from an institution, which often times is from foreign institutions, this business does little analysis on the records and states that what is provided is not enough. Payment for their services is required upfront with no expectation that they will assist with the claims they make. I did much of the research for them and sent for them, only to still have our documentation denied.

  Business response

  01/12/2023

  Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2022/12/23) */ We are in receipt of the applicant's complaint and apologize for any confusion regarding our services. IERF was founded in 1969 as the first credentials evaluation agency in the United States. Our mandate is to provide an assessment of the studies that were completed abroad by an individual and to issue a determination of the US educational equivalent. In order to engage in such services, it is the responsibility of the applicant to provide the necessary official academic records. These should be the final, official records of study. Our website states our document requirements by country ******************************************************************************** The physical academic records should be mailed to our office. However, if electronic records are to be submitted, they must be emailed from an official source. In the instance of the **** Year 13 Examination Certificate, this credential is awarded by the Ministry of Education in ****. For this reason, an electronic record may only be accepted if it is transmitted to us from the Ministry of Education, as the awarding body. Unfortunately, it was emailed by the high school using a generic public domain *************************** (the email was sent from **********************). In the instance of the transcripts from **** ******** University, the email address could not be independently verified on the institution of study's website. This requirement is stated under item #3 on our website at *************************. Additionally, the email did not pass SPF authentication, which is used to guard against such issues as phishing and spoofing. Unfortunately, it yielded a "temperror" notice. Our email communications on October 26th and December 13th explain why the scans we received were not accepted and clarified how the applicant could move forward (e.g., send in the official physical records, or have the electronic versions transmitted from an official, verifiable source). We sincerely apologize again for the frustrations experienced and hope the above provides further clarity regarding the documents required for evaluation. The recognition of IERF's evaluation reports over the decades is based on the standards we have in place.

• Initial Complaint

  09/01/2022

  Complaint Type:

  Product Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I paid this business $205.00 to review my international college transcripts and submit them to the college I indicated so that I could accept a spot in graduate school. After months and months, they NEVER submitted their review to the college, they inaccurately assessed my transcripts (if you look online you will notice lots of other people with the same complaint), and they refused to communicate with me to work it out. As a result of working with this company I lost my spot in graduate school. This has cost me my time and the continued advancement in my career. (NOTE - my graduate school was to start in June and I began the transcript process in January/February. They had MORE than enough time to do their job. )This company is preying upon international students and causing great harm. They are literally messing with people's lives and stealing their money.

  Business response

  09/08/2022

  This letter is in response to the BBB Case #: *******. The facts according to our records are as follows:
  
  On March 9, 2022 our Foundation received an application from the complainant for a foreign credentials evaluation. On March 11, 2022 our ****************** reached out to the complainant and requested additional documents that we needed to process he evaluation report. On March 15, 2022 our Foundation received the additional documents and activated the file. On April 11, 2022 the official evaluation report was mailed to ********************** ******** Campus, and a copy of the evaluation report was also sent to *********************
  On April 28, 2022 a second copy of the evaluation report was emailed to ********************** ******** Campus, as the applicant stated that the report was never received by the college.
  Thereafter, on May 2, 2022: ******************** submitted a letter challenging the outcome of the evaluation report. On May 19, 2022: A letter was emailed to ******************** with a detailed explanation pertaining to the challenge/question that she had regarding the evaluation report.
  
  Based on the above information, it is unfortunate that the complainant is dissatisfied with our services. We would like to further clarify the issues that the complainant has raised.
  
  1.******************** alleges that our office never submitted the review (evaluation report) to the college as she requested. As stated, above, it was first mailed out on April 11th and then a report was also emailed on April 28 to the College as she requested.
  2.******************** also alleges that we inaccurately assessed her transcript. This Foundation's evaluation reports are based on extensive research spanning over 50 years. Furthermore, all evaluation reports are reviewed by a senior evaluator before reports are finalized.
  3.As ********************** challenged the accuracy of the evaluation report, this Foundation addressed her concerns and sent her an explanation of its decision on May 19th in which we explained our position and policies.
  4.At no stage did our Organization refuse to communicate with her, as she has alleged.
  
  From the above, it can be seen that the services requested, were rendered and as such no refund is possible. Our Foundation's no refund policy is clearly stated in the terms and conditions of service to which ********************** agreed.
  
  

  Customer response

  09/13/2022

  (The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
  1. The college in question never received the transcript. They have no tracking information and are unable to provide any proof that hey sent it.
  2. Another transcript service with excellent reputation completed a transcript review in under a week, charging less fees, with tracking information proving the delivery to the college and with a correct assessment.
  3. IERF consistently did not respond within acceptable timeframes causing significant problems. On May 2nd, IERF committed to responding within 2 weeks and did not meet that commitment.
  4. 50 years of experience in a given field does not prove that they are currently doing a good job. (If you look at on-line reviews you will find SIGNIFICANT recent problems with their company. The current reviewers echo the problems I have experienced. One reviewer wrote: "Do not waste your time and money with these scammers. I think it is just one lady working from her kitchen in ***************** pretending to be so many different people. They take advantage of imigrants." Another reviewer wrote: " Not only it was not done on time, it was done again without considering all the details. In the result, I have received the copy of the old evaluation. All negotiations and correspondence brought to no result. Finally, the company agreed to edit my speciality for PHD and asked me to pay even more to spesify my speciality for BA...To make a long story short, I am sorry I got involved with this company which does not have all nesessary knowledge of educational systems outside *******. Please do not trust them and contact other companies what I did."
  This company is scamming people. I am only their most recent victim. They are not a legitimate business and are taking people's money, not providing the service that they were paid for and are lying about it. I have no desire to waste my time fighting about this - I want the BBB to place a warning on this company to protect other consumers.

  Customer response

  09/14/2022

  (The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.)
  This was a time sensitive matter. There was a hard deadline and that deadline has passed. The company did not fulfill their obligations in a timely manner nor execute the agreed upon services. I no longer wish to argue about this matter. It is not resolved and the company has not taken responsibility for their lack of service. Other consumers should beware of this company.

  Business response

  09/14/2022

  We are sorry that the complainant remains dissatisfied with the explanation that has been given regarding the processing of her evaluation, but we want her to know that our Institutional ******************** contacted ******************************* at ********************** ******** Campus via email *************************** on April 28, 2022, with a copy of the IERF evaluation report for *********************************. If ******************************* at ********************** ******** Campus has concerns, our Institutional ******************** are happy to answer any questions or concerns about the outcome of the report. ******************************* at ********************** ******** Campus can contact our Institutional ******************** at ****************************************
  

• Initial Complaint

  01/01/2022

  Complaint Type:

  Customer Service Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  I was referred to IERF's services by the University of Southern California, to obtain assistance with validating my International B.Sc. Degree. This became necessary due to my inability to obtain original transcripts directly from my international institution. To expedite processing, I paid a rush fee and provided IERF with copies of my B.Sc. degree and transcripts. IERF turned around and asked me for the same transcripts that I wasn't able to obtain. I explained over the course of several emails that my international B.Sc. institution was accredited, and I did not need secondary accreditation. My only need was for them to validate the authenticity of the document copies I had provided. IERF stopped responding to my emails, and do not have a working telephone number.

  Business response

  01/13/2022

  Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2022/01/10) */ To Whom it May Concern At the outset I wish to advise you that the procedure that IERF follows in evaluating foreign credentials is based on the Foundation's over 50 years of experience and expertise in the field of credential evaluation and international education research. We believe that it is because of the latter that we are highly respected in this field by academic institutions, professional organizations and governmental agencies, alike. As a Charter Member of the National Association of Credentials Evaluation Services (NACES), the primary recognition body for credential services in the United States, which body sets and promotes standards of excellence in the profession, it is important to appreciate that there is a set procedure in place for the evaluation of credentials. At the time that the complainant signed the IERF Application he signified that he understood and accepted the terms and conditions. Unfortunately, the complainant did not follow the instructions required for completion of the report for USC. All applicants must arrange to have their official academic records submitted to IERF for review. All other students have been able to make this arrangement, although the time and effort needed may vary, depending on their circumstances and country of study. Upon receipt of the necessary records, they are reviewed by our office and certified in a report to USC, as requested by USC. Applicants are advised to read the instructions thoroughly at our website (https://ierf.org/uni-evaluation/usc/) and USC's website (https://arr.usc.edu/students/degree-progress/domestic-and-international-degree-verification/). Both websites clearly state that students must submit the required records to IERF. The complainant's assertion that IERF is "profiteering" from our services is not correct. We are a non-profit benefit agency and as such do not profit from the services we provide. AS soon as we receive the required documents from the complainant, we will be in a position to process the report that his University (USC) requires. I trust that I have now clarified the situation. Consumer Response /* (3000, 7, 2022/01/11) */ (The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.) "At the time that the complainant signed the IERF Application he signified that he understood and accepted the terms and conditions". I clearly stated in my application that the service I needed was to evaluate the authenticity of my documents, not to validate them. My credentials do not need validation because my institution is accredited. My understanding was confirmed by paying rush fees - How could IERF have reasonably contemplated that internaional credetntials would be made available in the the 5-day span of a rush request? Clearly my reference point was the documents submitted with my application. "Unfortunately, the complainant did not follow the instructions required for completion of the report for USC". If your instructions were not followed, clearly no service was performed. Why can't IERF simply refund my money? "All applicants must arrange to have their official academic records submitted to IERF for review. All other students have been able to make this arrangement, although the time and effort needed may vary, depending on their circumstances and country of study. Upon receipt of the necessary records, they are reviewed by our office and certified in a report to USC, as requested by USC" Complainant does not need this service as described per statement above and multiple prior emails. "The complainant's assertion that IERF is "profiteering" from our services is not correct. We are a non-profit benefit agency and as such do not profit from the services we provide" No service has been provided. IERF offered a refund and I accepted the offer. Why would an honest business subsequently stop all communication and not follow-up on the offer to refund? "AS soon as we receive the required documents from the complainant, we will be in a position to process the report that his University (USC) requires" This service does not meet my needs. Please issue a refund. I will litigate as necessary if you refuse to act reasonably. Business Response /* (4000, 9, 2022/01/12) */ I refer to the complainant's dissatisfaction with our services. We have carefully investigated this matter. As indicated on our website (https://www.ierf.org/for-individuals/standard-application/required-documentation/), all post-secondary studies (Transcripts / Academic Records, Diplomas / Degree Certificates) must be requested from the issuing institution and mailed by the institution directly to IERF for the complainant's country of study in Nigeria. We again refer the complainant to the Terms and Conditions to which he agreed at the time of application (https://www.ierf.org/terms-conditions/). As stated in clause 11, "no refunds are provided once an application is submitted". Furthermore, much time and effort has been spent by this Agency reviewing the documents submitted and interviewing our staff for his case. Despite the aforementioned, we have considered the special circumstances of the complainant's case and have determined that an exception to the "non refund" policy that is in place will be made. It has been determined that we will process a refund in the amount of $174.50, (minus a 30% processing fee) on his credit card today, January 12, 2022. He is advised to allow a minimum of at least 3-4 business days for this amount to appear on his bank statement. Once the refund is processed, his file will be closed. Consumer Response /* (2000, 11, 2022/01/12) */ (The consumer indicated he/she ACCEPTED the response from the business.)

• Initial Complaint

  09/23/2021

  Complaint Type:

  Service or Repair Issues

  Status:

  Resolved

  More info

  Date of transaction 09/07/2021-09/17/2021, The amount of money paid and asking for refund is $270, The Business committed to provide International Transcript Evaluation-Rush with in 5 days to be send to Carrington College in Sacramento for LVN-RN, undergraduate program. Institute unable to provide International Transcript Evaluation in timely manner stating missing document although the evaluation was already done years ago( 22 years ago) , resubmitted marksheet from University of Mumbai and Official Transcripts affiliated from University of Mumbai, Bhavan's College and Syllabus. At this point I already submitted everything i have from my University located in India. I do not have further document. Kindly request for full refund for the unfinished job. *********************************** No updates on the status of the evaluation since 09/17/2021. Sincerely requesting full refund of $270

  Business response

  08/02/2022

  Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2022/01/04) */ To Whom it May Concern We have carefully reviewed the complaint filed by ******************. We are sorry to learn of the complainant's frustration. Our response is as follows: 1. At the outset I wish to advise you that the procedure that IERF follows in evaluating foreign credentials is based on the Foundation's over 50 years of experience and expertise in the field of credential evaluation and international education research. We believe that it is because of the latter that we are highly respected in this field by academic institutions, professional organizations and governmental agencies, alike. As a Charter Member of the National Association of Credentials Evaluation Services (NACES), the primary recognition body for credential services in the United States, which body sets and promotes standards of excellence in the profession, it is important to appreciate that there is a set procedure in place for the evaluation of credentials. 2. According to the records that we have on file, we received the complainant's original application in 1999. 3. At that time, the complainant signed the IERF Application thus signifying that he understood and accepted the terms and conditions. The following is clearly stated both in the Application and on our website: "Copies Requested After an Evaluation Report Has Been Mailed Once a report has been mailed, extra copies may be obtained within two years from the date that the report was issued using the Request Form for Duplicate Copies of an Evaluation. Separate fees apply. Please note that applicant files and documents are only kept for 2 years. Returning applicants seeking additional reports after the 2-year period must submit a new application, a complete set of academic records, and new fees. " 3. Evaluation reports are based solely on official academic records, as is stated clearly in the "Required Documents" section of our website. The country-specific requirements for India state that, "All supporting documents must be ORIGINAL academic records issued in English and/or Hindi... Unofficial records (e.g., college records/transcripts issued by the affiliated colleges, etc.) will not be accepted." Evaluation reports cannot be completed on the basis of a previous evaluation report issued by IERF, in lieu of submitting a complete set of original, official academic records. 4. The above policies were clearly reiterated in 2 email communications, both sent to the complainant on September 16, 2021. We are willing to process an evaluation report for the complainant but he will need to submit a complete set of ORIGINAL, official academic records which meet the requirements as outlined in the "Required Documents" section of our website. From the above, I trust that we have clarified our position. Consumer Response /* (3000, 7, 2022/01/08) */ (The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.) 1 absolutely, got the the information that IERF is accredited and that I had amount paid at that time for evaluation done in 1999.Thankyou for CLARIFING NOW that you STILL NEEDED transcript?! 2 I am requesting refund for the $270 refund. Since I had requested urgent transcript to be mailed at Carrington College IN SEPTEMBER,2021 and it was not done in timely manner. 3.So kindly request for the money, since service were not given to me. 4. Thankyou for your understanding Business Response /* (4000, 11, 2022/07/27) */ This is in response to the latest rebuttal received through the BBB. We have again carefully reviewed the complainant's file. As previously noted, an evaluation report was first completed in 1999. Unfortunately, however, when she reapplied in 2021, over two decades have since passed. For this reason, her original file was destroyed and she had to reapply, following the current document requirements. We are appreciative of the applicant's continued use of our services. Unfortunately, however, new evaluation reports cannot be issued, on the basis of a copy of an old report provided by the applicant. As instructed on our website (https://ierf.org/for-individuals/standard-application/required-documentation/), a complete set of official academic records must be submitted, issued by the awarding degree-granting university. While our office did receive original academic records, they were issued by the affiliated college (Bhavan College) and not by the degree-granting university (University of Mumbai), as needed. Scans of records from the University of Mumbai were also submitted. Unfortunately, scans from the student are regarded as unofficial records of study and cannot be used. An explanation of the necessary documents was emailed to the complainant on the following dates and times: September 13, 2021 September 15, 2021 September 16, 2021 at 11.26am and 3.28pm September 17, 2021 Submission of the correct, required documentation is the responsibility of the applicant. Unfortunately, the missing documentation prevented our office from completing and issuing the requested evaluation report. Additionally, at the time of reapplication, the complainant agreed to the terms and conditions. As stated in clause 11 (https://ierf.org/terms-conditions/), no refunds are issued once processing has begun. Nevertheless, an exception is being made and a refund will be issued, less a processing and mailing fee of $70. A check will be mailed, along with the return of the documents initially submitted. We ask that the complainant confirm her mailing address and phone number. These details should be provided in writing via email at [email protected]. Upon confirmation, the check and documents will be mailed out, as well as an email notification with the tracking number for these items. Consumer Response /* (2000, 13, 2022/08/01) */ (The consumer indicated he/she ACCEPTED the response from the business.) Appreciate the exception and a refund issued, less a processing and mailing fee of $70. Awaiting check to be mailed, along with the return of the documents initially submitted. Confirm mailing address ******************************************************************************************. These details has been provided in writing via email at [email protected]. Kindly confirm, the check and documents that will be mailed out, as well as an email notification with the tracking number for these items.

• Initial Complaint

  09/17/2021

  Complaint Type:

  Product Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  Hello my name is ****************. I recently had my German High School diploma Certified by your company. You did a terrible job, and didnt do the work that I was trying to accomplish. For that reason I can not even use the certificate, that I paid over $300 for. That is a real shame. I am sorry, I ever used your services. You must not have any understanding of the German School System. In Germany everyone that is not continuing their study's at a University graduates after the 10th Grade. I went on to a Trade school for 3 years after the 10th Grade. I am going to report you to the better Business Bureau. I encourage your Staff to get a better understanding of the German Education System. Because you have peoples lively hood at stake.

  Business response

  09/30/2021

  Business Response /* (1000, 5, 2021/09/30) */ To Whom it May Concern We have carefully reviewed the complaint filed by ****************. We are sorry to learn of her dissatisfaction with the evaluation report that was issued by our Foundation. Our response to her complaint is as follows: 1. Background and History of this Foundation: At the outset I wish to advise that the procedure that IERF follows in evaluating foreign credentials is based on the Foundation's over 50 years of experience and expertise in the field of credential evaluation and international education research. We believe that it is because of the latter that we are highly respected in this field by academic institutions, professional organizations and governmental agencies, alike. As a Charter Member of the National Association of Credentials Evaluation Services (NACES), the primary recognition body for credential services in the United States, which body sets and promotes standards of excellence in the profession, it is important to appreciate that there is a set procedure in place for the evaluation of credentials. 2. The nub of the complainant's objection is that she is dissatisfied with the report that this office issued in that she does not agree with the results of her evaluation report. 3. Our office issued a formal written response to *********** on September 29, 2021. This response referred to the terms and conditions of our services, more particularly, that she had signed the IERF Application and, as such, had signified that she un***stood and accepted the terms and conditions which expressly specify that, while an individual or organization may disagree with the outcome of an evaluation report, we are not bound by any outside policies and do not in any way guarantee to issue the educational equivalence anticipated by an applicant or receiving organization, as the case may be. 4. IERF performed the services requested and paid for by the complainant. Included in the requested services was a $200 fee for expedited next day turnaround in the processing of the evaluation report. 5. ***********' application was submitted to this office on September 13, 2021. Her uploaded academic records issued in German were promptly reviewed by our evaluation team, and a request for missing documents (translations) was sent to her later that very same day. This request for the missing translations included a remin*** that every effort would be made to send out the evaluation within the requested turnaround time once all requested documentation had been received. 6. Our Foundation's website clearly states that English translations are required for all academic records not issued in English. *********** provided the translations requested for her academic records which were received, reviewed and accepted by our evaluation team on September 14, 2021. 7. The evaluation report was processed and sent to the applicant the following day, i.e., September 15, 2021. 8. The consumer has now challenged our Foundation's evaluation teams' knowledge of the German education system in that the evaluation report found that the complainant had the U.S. equivalent of completion of the tenth grade. 9. As noted above, one of the complainant's main objections is that she anticipated the evaluation would state that she had graduated from high school. In or*** for IERF to be able to recommend a U.S. equivalency of senior high school graduation, a secondary program completed abroad must meet the following criteria: a. First, it must represent the completion of a full upper secondary level track in the country of study (and not only completion of compulsory education); and b. secondly, completion of the program must grant access to higher education in the country of study. The program completed by *********** in Germany was identified in her academic records as an "****************************************** 10" (Extended "***********" Secondary School Leaving Certificate after Grade 10). As such, it represents completion of 10 years of primary and secondary education in Germany. While the completion of *********** marks the completion of one stage of secondary level education (************* 1) and in some instances represents a terminal qualification for students not pursuing higher education, it is not consi***ed completion of full secondary education in Germany (************* II, 12 or 13 years, depending on the state). The *********** ****************** does not grant access to academic postsecondary education (i.e., degree programs) at universities in Germany. 10. For these reasons, IERF consi***s the complainant's studies to be equivalent to completion of the tenth grade in the United States. Completion of secondary education in the U.S. requires 12 years of study. A U.S. equivalency of senior high school graduation is reserved for the ******* *** *********** ************** (Certificate of General Maturity for Higher Education), the ******* *** ****************** (Certificate of Maturity for Universities of Applied Sciences), or the ******* *** ************* ************** (Certificate of Subject-Restricted University Entrance Qualification), as these qualifications require completion of a minimum of 12 years of secondary education and grant access to academic higher education at universities in Germany. In conclusion As stated above, IERF does not guarantee the results that are anticipated by an applicant. We are satisfied that the report issued is the correct one based on IERF's own research and on applied principles of comparative education. Much time and effort was spent by IERF reviewing and researching the documents provided by the complainant. The requested services were provided, i.e., a report was issued and, as such, IERF cannot refund the fees that are now requested by the complainant. Further, as stated in the terms and conditions of service, evaluations reports issued by this Foundation are advisory in nature. There is nothing, therefore that precludes the complainant from seeking the evaluation services of another agency. I trust that I have provided clarity and wish *********** much success in her future endeavors. Consumer Response /* (3000, 7, 2021/10/05) */ (The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.) Part of what they say is true. But all Germans graduate after the 10th grade. Then they eather go onto a college education or they go to a trade school. Just because in America you go to school for 12 years and get a high School diploma, We go to school for 10 years and what I given them is my graduation from 10th grade. I then went on to a trade school. But I did graduate, what would be consi***ed High School in Germany. Due to them not un***standing the German Schooling system has cost me job opertunies. That I will never get back now. Those places wanted to see a high school diploma. That is what we get in Germany when you graduate the 10th grade. So the Lodi Independent School district didnt accept this since it said I had only gone to school for 10 years. So now I am still out of a job. Due to this company not un***standing the German Education System. Business Response /* (4000, 9, 2021/10/08) */ We have fully and carefully consi***ed the situation. Regrettably, our position is as was stated in our previous detailed and lengthy response. As far as our Foundation is concerned, the matter will is final and the case is now closed. As previously stated, the service for which the applicant applied was provided. Further, our reports are advisory in nature and as such nothing precludes the complainant from seeking a report from another credentials evaluation agency. Consumer Response /* (4200, 11, 2021/10/08) */ (The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.) They are a scam. And all that rubbish that is in there write up means nothing. They are also lying to you about the amount they charged. As attached the price they charged me was $295.00. Not $200.00. Then they charged me an additional $40.00 to send me a piece of paper I could not even use. They are a complete rip off, and dont know the German education system. Thanks, Attatched you will find a charge in the amount of $295.00, Not $200.00. Made to IERF Business Response /* (4000, 13, 2021/10/19) */ We sincerely regret the applicant's dissatisfaction with the outcome of her evaluation report. The full services requested were completed ($85 for the general report, $200 for the rush service, and $40 for next day delivery with tracking). We can only reiterate the terms and conditions which she acknowledged and agreed to at the time of submission of her application************************************** Clause 1 indicates that our reports are advisory in nature and non-binding. Additionally, clause 8 states that there is no guarantee that the applicant will be in agreement with the US educational equivalency provided. Unfortunately, her credential does not mark the end of upper secondary education in Germany and it does not give access to university study in Germany. As such, a US high school equivalency is not warranted. Business Response /* (4000, 18, 2022/01/05) */ We sincerely regret the applicant's dissatisfaction with the outcome of her evaluation report. The full services requested were completed ($85 for the general report, $200 for the rush service, and $40 for next day delivery with tracking). We can only reiterate the terms and conditions which she acknowledged and agreed to at the time of submission of her application ************************************. Clause 1 indicates that our reports are advisory in nature and non-binding. Additionally, clause 8 states that there is no guarantee that the applicant will be in agreement with the US educational equivalency provided. Unfortunately, her credential does not mark the end of upper secondary education in Germany and it does not give access to university study in Germany. As such, a US high school equivalency is not warranted.

• Initial Complaint

  07/07/2021

  Complaint Type:

  Customer Service Issues

  Status:

  Answered

  More info

  I would like to file an official complaint about this member of yours; International Education Research Foundation and here is their *************************** The situation is as follows: 1- I earned a bachelor of science in business administration from Cairo University in Egypt in ******* I had it evaluated by the International Education Research Foundation in **** and it was determined that it is the U.S. equivalent of the bachelor of science in business administration, with concentration in accounting.3- I have a copy of that Equivalency Report stamped by the IERF official seal.4- Obviously they would have never issued this Equivalency Report without receiving the official original academic records from my university at that time.5- I am now enrolling in the MBA program at the Santa Clara University and the program director accepted my Equivalency Report and just need to receive the original report directly from the IERF.6- I contacted the International Education Research Foundatio

  Business response

  07/09/2021

  Consumer Response /* (-5, 5, 2021/07/08) */ Thank you very much for this information. I noticed that the complaint page allowed for a limited text only. Therefore I am including the full text of my complaint here in case you need it for your records and please feel free to forward it to the business I am complaining about. Best, ******************** ******************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************************* Business Response /* (1000, 6, 2021/07/09) */ To Whom it May Concern We have carefully reviewed the complaint filed by ***** **********. We are sorry to learn of the complainant's frustration. Our response is as follows: 1. At the outset I wish to advise you that the procedure that IERF follows in evaluating foreign credentials is based on the Foundation's over 50 years of experience and expertise in the field of credential evaluation and international education research. We believe that it is because of the latter that we are highly respected in this field by academic institutions, professional organizations and governmental agencies, alike. As a Charter Member of the National Association of Credentials Evaluation Services (NACES), the primary recognition body for credential services in the United States, which body sets and promotes standards of excellence in the profession, it is important to appreciate that there is a set procedure in place for the evaluation of credentials. 2. According to the records that we have on file, we received the complainant's original application in 1996. 3. At that time, the complainant signed the IERF Application thus signifying that he understood and accepted the terms and conditions. The following is clearly stated both in the Application and on our website: "Copies Requested After an Evaluation Report Has Been Mailed Once a report has been mailed, extra copies may be obtained within two years from the date that the report was issued using the Request Form for Duplicate Copies of an Evaluation. Separate fees apply. Please note that applicant files and documents are only kept for 2 years. Returning applicants seeking additional reports after the 2-year period must submit a new application and new fees. " 3. The above policy was clearly reiterated in 2 email communications sent to the complainant on July 6, 2021 and July 7, 2021, respectively. We are willing to process a new evaluation report for the complainant but he will need to submit a new application and new fees. From the above, I trust that we have clarified our position. Consumer Response /* (3000, 8, 2021/07/09) */ (The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.) I will be happy to submit a new application and pay new fees if that is all that is required by the IERF to issue a duplicate original stamped by their seal and send it to me and my choice of universities which are currently Arizona State University and Santa Clara University. But it would be unreasonable of the IERF and unfair and against fair business practice if they again ask to receive the original academic records from ***** University that they already received in 1996 when they did the first equivalency report as they would never had issued it without receiving the original academic records at that time, so this condition has already been met and no reason to put it as an obstacle especially that I have already mentioned that this would not be possible due to complex political reasons. Business Response /* (4000, 11, 2021/07/15) */ I refer to the complainant's response and our response is as follows: As we have already explained in our previous communication - our Foundation is happy to process a new report which will require a new application as well as the documents that are specified in the Country Specific requirements as detailed on our website, i.e., original documents are required for his country of study. Consumer Response /* (4200, 13, 2021/07/15) */ (The consumer indicated he/she DID NOT accept the response from the business.) This is an unfair business practice. I will seek help from the California Department of Consumer Affairs.

*Some consumers may elect to not publish the details of their complaints, some complaints may not meet BBB's standards for publication, or BBB may display a portion of complaints when a high volume is received for a particular business. ↩