Before you start this process, be aware that you are going to need a lot of different items and information to complete it. Make sure you have the following on-hand, if possible, before you begin.
- You’ll need access to a credit card. Most of these services have some option to mail in a form of payment, but this will significantly slow down the process. Alternatively, you can use a debit card, or you can purchase a pre-paid gift card at any number of retail locations. Note that this process will likely cost over $2,000 in total.
- You will need envelopes and postage stamps to mail documentation overseas. You can buy stamps online or at any post office.
- You will need to enter extensive personal information for the documentation you have available, including the numbers on your Social Security card and passport, the details of your various certifications and professional licenses, along with completion dates and contact info from various institutions like schools and government agencies. You may skip ahead and read through the steps in this app to help gather this information.
- You’re going to have to reach out to your school for official transcripts, multiple times. You will need to obtain these documents for yourself if you don’t already have them, and you will also need to have them sent directly to multiple agencies.
- You must speak, read and write English fluently. If English is not your native language, you must have a level 7-8 of ESL classes. You can register for ESL classes with City Colleges of Chicago.
- You will need access to a printer and a scanner. Note that iPhones can scan from the notes app, and that many Android phones’ cameras have this feature as well.
Once you have these items, you can proceed.