**Note:** This is a true story from a RealProAcademy student. We’ve changed the name and modified or excluded some details at the individual’s request for privacy.

# 🏡 From Immigrant to Agent: A Real Journey to Becoming a Real Estate Professional in Alberta

When I arrived in Calgary three years ago, I had an engineering degree from India, two suitcases, and a head full of dreams. Like many newcomers, I imagined I’d quickly find work in my field.

But reality hit hard.

Despite my education and experience, I faced rejection after rejection. Employers wanted “Canadian experience.” I didn’t have it.

Then a friend said something that changed everything:
>“Neha, you’d be amazing in real estate.”

At first, I brushed it off. But I kept thinking about it. I love people. I’m passionate about homes and neighborhoods. Why not build a career helping others find theirs?

So, I decided to become a licensed real estate agent in Alberta—and I want to share what that journey was really like.

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## 📄 Step 1: Credential Assessment — Navigating IQAS

The first requirement from RECA (Real Estate Council of Alberta) is confirming your education credentials. For internationally educated professionals like me, that means getting your degree evaluated.

I chose **IQAS (International Qualifications Assessment Service)**, which is run by the Alberta government.

It seemed affordable and simple—but turned out to be neither.

– Their website kept crashing when I tried to register.
– Support was difficult to reach and slow to respond.
– I paid for “courier service,” but they sent it via regular Canada Post with no tracking.

Then it got worse. IQAS told me they had **sent my completed evaluation to RECA**, but RECA said they never received it.

I was stuck.

It took **multiple complaints and weeks of follow-up** before RECA finally acknowledged receipt. Lesson learned: start this process early—and keep every receipt and email.