How to confirm your qualifications if you are a programmer?

If you are a programmer looking to succeed in your career in Canada, you will need to prove your qualifications. Proof of qualifications can include various aspects ranging from formal education to practical experience and professional certifications.

Proof of diploma

One of the first steps to validate your qualifications is to assess your education. In Canada, there are organizations that evaluate foreign degrees and certificates. This is important for employers who want to make sure that your education meets Canadian standards. To get your diploma validated in Canada, you should contact World Education Services (WES), International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS), or Canadian Alliance of Physiotherapy Regulators (CAPR). The choice of organization depends on your needs and specialization. Usually, the assessment process includes a diploma with a translation and other academic credentials. You will need to pay assessment fees and may also need to provide additional information about your education. The credential validation process usually takes several months.

Professional certifications

In addition to formal education, having professional certifications will significantly increase your competitiveness in the labor market. There are many certifications in the field of programming, such as Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), Microsoft Certified: Azure Developer Associate, AWS Certified Developer - Associate, and many others. The choice of certification depends on your specialization and the technologies you work with. Certifications demonstrate your knowledge and skills in specific areas, as well as your willingness to learn and improve. Many employers consider certifications important when hiring.

Practical experience

Diplomas and certifications are very important, but the Canadian job market is highly competitive, so they may not be enough. Practical experience is one of the most important factors that prove your qualifications as a programmer. Create a portfolio with examples of your work. You can include projects you have worked on before, as well as personal projects or open-source contributions. A portfolio will allow potential employers to see your skills in practice. Having references from previous employers or colleagues will also help confirm your qualifications. You can ask them to write letters of recommendation or provide contact information for telephone references.