The International Education Research Foundation (IERF) was the first organization established in the United States to offer credential evaluations for people educated outside the country and who need to verify educational equivalency. Since 1969, this nonprofit agency has been researching international education standards in order to provide its services. Colleges, universities, state licensing boards, government agencies, attorneys, and individuals have enlisted IERF's services to evaluate candidates for further education, professional certifications, military recruitment, employment and immigration. Individuals can apply to have evaluation reports created that suit their particular needs.