A computer is programmed to acquire calibration data from a calibration scan, the calibration data configured to characterize high order eddy current (HOEC) generated magnetic field error of an imaging system. The computer is also programmed to process the calibration data to generate a plurality of basis coefficients and a plurality of time constants and to calculate a plurality of basis correction coefficients based on the plurality of basis coefficients, the plurality of time constants, and gradient waveforms in a given pulse sequence. The computer is further programmed to execute a diffusion-weighted imaging scan that comprises application of a DW-EPI pulse sequence to acquire MR data from an imaging subject and reconstruction of an image based on the acquired MR data. The computer is also programmed to apply HOEC-generated magnetic field error correction during application of the DW-EPI pulse sequence configured to reduce HOEC-induced distortion in the reconstructed image.
