How to Evaluate Liberian Credentials for U.S. Education and Employment

Liberia’s education system follows a structured 6-3-3-4 model, guiding students from primary education to higher learning. This framework includes six years of primary school, three years of junior secondary, three years of senior secondary, and four years of tertiary education. Central to the secondary education experience is the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), which serves as a critical gateway to higher education, scholarships, and career opportunities both locally and internationally.

For students aiming to pursue further education abroad, particularly in the United States, credential evaluation plays a crucial role. U.S. institutions require a clear alignment between local academic qualifications, such as the WASSCE and university degrees from Liberia, and their own educational standards. Proper evaluation ensures that Liberian students' academic achievements are recognized and accurately assessed, providing a fair opportunity for admission and professional advancement.

With the right support, students and professionals can confidently navigate this evaluation process and pursue their goals abroad. MotaWord’s fast, reliable, and affordable credential evaluation services help simplify this journey by ensuring academic records are processed accurately and on time.

WASSCE and Secondary Education in Liberia

Liberia’s education system follows a structured pathway, offering students a progression from primary education to tertiary institutions. Although education is free and compulsory for children aged 6 to 16, actual school attendance varies, with many students facing challenges in accessing and completing their studies. Efforts are ongoing to increase enrollment and provide a more stable learning environment for all students.

Primary and Junior Secondary Education

Primary education begins at the age of six and lasts for six years. During this phase, students study foundational subjects such as Mathematics, English, Science, and Social Studies. At the end of their primary education, students take the National Common Entrance Examination, which determines their eligibility to move on to secondary education.

Following primary education, students enter Junior Secondary School (JSS), which spans three years. The JSS curriculum broadens to include subjects like Mathematics, English, Science, Technology, and Civic Education. Upon completion, students take the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE). Passing this examination qualifies students to advance to Senior Secondary School (SSS), marking a key step toward further academic and career opportunities.

Senior Secondary Education and the Role of WASSCE

Students who complete JSS move on to Senior Secondary School (SSS), which also spans three years. During these years, students choose an academic track aligned with their career interests. Common tracks include Science, Arts, and Business, allowing students to focus on subjects that suit their aspirations. However, some core subjects—such as Mathematics, English, and a science subject (e.g., Biology or Chemistry)—remain mandatory for all students.

The culmination of secondary education is the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE), administered by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC). WASSCE serves as the final assessment for students completing SSS and plays a crucial role in determining their academic and professional futures. Introduced in Liberia between 2013 and 2018, WASSCE has now fully replaced the Liberia Senior High School Certificate Examination (LSHSCE).

The Importance of WASSCE Results

WASSCE results are essential for students pursuing higher education, scholarships, and employment opportunities.

- University Admissions: Liberian universities and other tertiary institutions use WASSCE scores as an important admission criterion, determining eligibility for undergraduate programs.

- Scholarships and Employment: Strong WASSCE results can unlock scholarships and provide access to jobs requiring secondary education credentials.

- International Education: Students aspiring to study abroad, particularly in the U.S. and U.K., must present their WASSCE results during the application process. Many international institutions require a credential evaluation to align WASSCE results with local academic standards.

Higher Education in Liberia

Higher Education Institutions in Liberia

Liberia’s higher education system offers a range of academic and professional programs through universities, colleges, and teacher training institutes. The two primary universities in the country are the University of Liberia and Cuttington University. The University of Liberia, founded in 1862, holds the distinction of being one of the oldest universities in Africa. Cuttington University, originally established in 1888 in Harper City, Maryland, relocated to its current location in Liberia in 1949. These institutions offer programs that help develop the skilled workforce needed for the nation’s rebuilding and advancement.

However, both universities faced severe disruptions, including extensive damage to facilities and long periods of closure, with many faculty members leaving the country.

In addition to universities, teacher training institutes and colleges play a critical role in preparing educators for primary, junior high, and senior high schools. These institutions ensure that Liberia can meet the growing demand for qualified teachers at all levels of education.

Structure of Higher Education Programs

Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor’s Degrees)

Liberian universities offer four-year bachelor’s degree programs across various fields, including humanities, business, science, and education. Although professional degrees like law, engineering, and medicine often extend beyond four years in other countries, Liberia primarily focuses on undergraduate programs lasting four years.

Master’s Degrees

Postgraduate programs in Liberia consist mainly of two-year master’s degrees, designed to provide students with advanced coursework and research opportunities. These programs are offered in areas such as education, public administration, and business. However, Liberia does not currently offer doctoral (PhD) programs.

Teacher Training Programs

Teacher training in Liberia follows a structured approach to prepare educators for different school levels:

- Primary school teachers complete a three-year program at teacher training institutes, earning the Primary Teacher’s Certificate or Grade C Teaching Certificate.

- Junior high school teachers undergo a two-year post-secondary program at teacher training colleges, earning the Grade B Teaching Certificate.

- Senior high school teachers are required to hold a bachelor’s degree, typically obtained from a university.

Non-Bachelor Postsecondary Diplomas and Certificates

In addition to bachelor’s and master’s degrees, Liberian institutions offer non-bachelor postsecondary programs to address the need for vocational training and practical skills development.

- Associate’s Degrees: These two-year programs provide students with foundational skills in fields like business administration, information technology, and healthcare.

- Professional and Vocational Certifications: Short-term programs, typically lasting from six months to two years, offer specialized training in areas such as agriculture, education, and business. These certificates equip students with job-ready skills to meet market demands.

Evaluating Liberian Academic Credentials and Degrees for U.S. Equivalency

Evaluating academic credentials from Liberia is essential for students and professionals seeking to study or work in the United States. U.S. institutions rely on credential evaluations to align Liberian qualifications with their own education standards, ensuring accurate and fair assessments.

Secondary Education Evaluation

The West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) is regarded as equivalent to a U.S. high school diploma. Students should submit both their WASSCE certificates and high school transcripts to provide a comprehensive overview of their academic background. See our Guide to Documents Required for Academic Evaluations for further information.

U.S. institutions typically convert WASSCE results into letter grades (A, B, C, etc.) and calculate a corresponding GPA. This process enables admissions officers to assess how well students from Liberia have performed in comparison to U.S. education standards, facilitating admissions decisions and scholarship opportunities.

Primary Teacher’s Certificate / Grade C Teaching Certificate

The Primary Teacher’s Certificate, also known as the Grade C Teaching Certificate, is awarded after three years of study at a teacher training institute. This certificate qualifies graduates to teach at the primary school level and is comparable to the completion of a vocational or specialized high school curriculum in the U.S., making it the only alternative to the WASSCE for senior high school graduation in Liberia. Students are eligible to enter the program after completing nine years of schooling, including primary and junior secondary education.

Postsecondary Degree Evaluation

Liberia’s higher education institutions primarily offer bachelor’s and master’s degree programs, with teacher training certificates preparing educators for different levels of schooling. These qualifications align closely with U.S. degree structures, though Liberia does not currently offer doctoral programs.

- Associate’s Degrees: A two-year Associate’s degree from Liberia is generally equivalent to an Associate’s Degree in the U.S.

- Bachelor’s Degrees: A four-year bachelor’s degree from Liberia is generally recognized as equivalent to a U.S. bachelor’s degree. Graduates with these qualifications are eligible for employment or entry into graduate programs in the U.S.

- Master’s Degrees: Liberia offers two-year master’s programs, comparable to U.S. master’s degrees. These programs typically involve advanced coursework and research, equipping students for specialized roles or further study.

- Teacher Training Certificates: Liberia offers different levels of teaching certificates, each aligned with a specific educational tier. The Primary Teacher’s Certificate (Grade C Teaching Certificate), awarded after three years of training, is comparable to vocational or specialized high school programs in the U.S. Junior high school teachers receive Grade B Teaching Certificates, awarded after two years of post-secondary study, while senior high school teachers must hold bachelor’s degrees.

- Diplomas and Professional Programs: Liberia also offers specialized diplomas, such as the Diploma in Journalism from Cuttington University College, which is recognized as equivalent to three years of undergraduate study in the U.S. These diplomas can provide career-ready skills or count towards further education abroad.

Professional Degrees in Liberia

- Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.):The Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) is a three-year program that provides a professional qualification in law. Prior completion of two years of university study (or an Associate’s Degree) is required for admission to the LLB program. This degree is comparable to a first professional degree in law (similar to a Juris Doctor, or JD, in the U.S.). Students are eligible to pursue this program after two years of prior university study. Upon graduation, LL.B. holders are prepared for employment in legal fields or for further education, such as preparation for the Liberian Bar Examination.

- Doctorate in Medicine (M.D.): The Doctorate in Medicine (M.D.) program spans seven years and prepares students for careers in healthcare. In the U.S., this degree is considered equivalent to a first professional degree in medicine (M.D.). Entry into this program requires a WAEC certificate and passing an entrance examination. Graduates can pursue employment in healthcare settings or further education through medical residency programs.

Why Choose MotaWord for Academic Evaluations?

Speed and Efficiency

MotaWord’s advanced technology ensures fast evaluations, helping students and professionals meet tight deadlines without delays.

Accurate and Reliable Evaluations

Our team combines expertise and AI-powered tools to accurately translate Liberian academic credentials, including WASSCE results, into U.S. standards.

Affordable Solutions

By streamlining the evaluation process through automation, MotaWord offers lower costs without compromising quality, making credential evaluation accessible to more applicants.

Comprehensive Documentation Assistance

We guide applicants through the submission of WASSCE certificates, transcripts, and other documents to ensure smooth processing with no missing paperwork. Our 24/7 customer support chat is operated by real people who are ready to assist you.

Seamless User Experience

MotaWord’s easy-to-use platform allows applicants to upload documents, track progress in real time, and receive notifications, providing a stress-free experience.

With speed, precision, affordability, and exceptional service, MotaWord ensures that Liberian students and professionals can confidently pursue their academic and career goals in the U.S.

Conclusion

Accurate credential evaluation is essential for Liberian students and professionals aiming to pursue education or careers in the United States. From WASSCE results to university degrees, ensuring that qualifications are properly translated into U.S. standards opens doors to admissions, scholarships, and job opportunities.

MotaWord provides a fast, reliable, and affordable solution for credential evaluation. Our user-friendly platform simplifies the process, ensuring smooth submission of required documents like WASSCE certificates and transcripts. With expert analysis and AI-powered tools, MotaWord guarantees that your achievements are fairly evaluated to meet U.S. academic and professional requirements.

Take the next step toward your goals today. Visit here to order your credential evaluation and ensure your qualifications are recognized.

Mark Rogers - Head of Evaluation Services at MotaWord

Mark is a credentials evaluator expert with over five years of experience in the industry. Throughout his career, Mark has demonstrated a keen attention to detail and a thorough understanding of international education systems, contributing to his reputation as a trusted authority in the field of credentials evaluation.