A diploma is more than a piece of paper. It is a representation of hard work, completion of rigorous requirements and acquired competency in a certain skill, subject or trade. Moreover, it can be the key that unlocks a job, a visa, a license or further education. However, it may not be immediately understood when presented to a school, employer, licensing board, or immigration agency.
When showing your education to recipients in a new country, the first step is obtaining a clear, complete, and accurate English translation of your academic documents. A translation ought to preserve the essence of the original document while revealing a reliable way to read names, dates, grades, seals and other details in a language understandable for a reader. A translated document should also indicate the translator’s certification of ability, accuracy, and completeness.
So how are translations connected to credential evaluation? A translation is a conversion from one language to another, most useful for surface-level comprehension of the academic achievement. In the United States, a diploma or transcript originally in Arabic, Chinese, German or another language will be translated into English. For a deeper understanding of the achievement, individuals order credential evaluations, which provide equivalencies in the United States; a credential evaluation explains the credential in US terms, which helps admissions offices, hiring committees, licensing boards and immigration adjudicators determine if an applicant meets their standards.
This distinction matters. IEE requires accurate certified translations before it can issue a credential evaluation. Furthermore, institutions requiring credential evaluations, from a university’s international admissions office to USCIS, often request that certified translations accompany their applications. Understanding what makes a translation acceptable will help you avoid delays in the pursuit of your life goals.
Ready to get your foreign diploma evaluated? Request your credential evaluation today.
Why You Need a Certified Translation of Your Foreign Credential
A certificate, diploma or transcript symbolizes years of training, effort and development, but US schools, employers, licensing boards, and government agencies may not be able to apply, use or understand it until its contents are available in English. This raises the need for reliable translations. Not only does it show your educational accomplishment in English, but it also gives the recipient organization something to support your engagement with them. Potential questions or concerns may be addressed with a simple English translation of your qualification, which can streamline the process of applying, onboarding or processing.
While you may be able to informally translate or explain your own academic documentation well, organizations typically wish to have certified translations, which are done by a professional translator. They normally contain a translator’s certification stating that the work is accurate, complete and done by someone fluent in both English and the source language. The certification from the official translator provides legitimacy and assurance of quality.
So what are some specific instances that require translations of academic documents?
Credential evaluation
A certified translation may be needed before a credential evaluator can review, convert and equate your education. Academic documents include transcripts, degree certificates, marksheets, diploma supplements and more, depending on the country of education. Information on the documents frequently appears on the credential evaluation, such as the credential title, biographical data, the field(s) of study, the awarding institution and course titles. Other information is extracted from the document to make US-equivalent credits and grades, which appear on evaluations. Once your academic documentation is provided in English, the evaluator can properly summarize its contents, create a US-formatted GPA along with conversion of credits and grades, and recommend a US equivalency, all of which is used for education, employment, licensure or immigration purposes.
It’s important to note than a translation and an evaluation are not the same thing. A translation is simply a document’s contents written in a different language; an evaluation, meanwhile, is an examination of an educational history from abroad with a US equivalency recommendation. English translation is an important piece of the evaluation process.
IEE provides both evaluation and translation services. If you are currently in the process of gathering materials, IEE’s guide to documents required for credential evaluation can help you.
Employment and professional licensing
Individuals with educational credentials from abroad can use translations when both seeking employment and pursuing a professional or occupational license. Employers and licensing boards may wish to see your diploma, certificate or transcript during the application, interview or hiring process. Perhaps they want to see your coursework or specific field of study. They may also be doing this as a kind of background check to confirm that your qualifications match your application or the things you shared in an interview. A certified English version of your credentials allows hiring managers or board members to both understand your educational background and verify your claims. Depending on the role and jurisdiction, you may also need a credential evaluation to show your education in US terms; this is so that the employer or board can be sure that your education meets the minimum criteria for a role or license. Always check the job posting or licensing board’s guidelines to see if you need a credential evaluation or literal translation to attach to your application.
Immigration benefit requests
Applicants for immigration benefits must submit documentation that supports eligibility. Immigration petitioners for certain visa types, including some H-1B cases, may need to prove that their educational qualifications meet the minimum standard to qualify for a visa; proof of this can be presented through both translated documents and credential evaluation. Requirements vary, so follow the instructions for your specific situation and submit the format requested.
How to Translate Foreign Academic Documents into English, Step by Step
Before starting, it’s important to be sure that you need a translation. If so, follow these steps.
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Identify who requires the translation and what they need
A university, employer, licensing board, or immigration agency may be the entity receiving the translation of your academic document. Ask the organization specifically which documents must be translated; some may only need a diploma while others may want your diploma and transcript translated into English. Recipients may also require that your translation contain a translator certification of accuracy.
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Gather your original academic documents and supporting documents
Whether it’s a diploma, certificate or transcript, locate the clearest documents from your academic history. Check that all of the information on the documents is legible, including biographical data, dates, credential titles, seals, and other details. Then, get ready to send a scan or certified copy, rather than mailing an irreplaceable original and risk losing it.
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Choose a professional certified translation provider
Select a provider that can translate from the document’s language into English and supply the certification required by your recipient. Ask what the certification includes, how corrections are handled, and whether the finished translation will preserve names, dates, stamps, and the document’s structure. A provider familiar with academic and immigration documents can also help you avoid errors and omissions. IEE’s certified translation service is a potential option for your translation needs.
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Submit your document securely with timing in mind
Upload or send a high-quality scan through the provider’s approved process. Include all pages and follow any instructions from the receiving organization. If you have a deadline, state it at the outset and ask about timeline expectations.
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Review the certified translation for accuracy
Compare the completed English version with the original line by line. Check names, dates, credential information, grades, seals and other critical information. Confirm that the certification statement is included and signed. If something is unclear or incorrect, request a revision before submitting the translation to the university, employer, licensing board, or immigration agency. Every detail matters, so it is important to check that each number, grade or unit is portrayed properly; for instance, a single grade typed incorrectly can lead to a miscalculated or misunderstood US GPA, which could motivate a rejection from a university admissions officer. Once the document is accurate, follow the recipient’s instructions for delivery. If you also need a credential evaluation, obtaining a translation is a good and necessary step.
What a Certified Translation Must Include
Documents in general represent something important, be it an educational achievement, a legal arrangement or an entire identity. Plus, the organizations reviewing the content are making critical decisions impacting individuals, workplaces, and even whole communities. As a result, translators must be sensitive when producing and issuing a translation. This is why a translator certification makes a difference. It promises faithful translation from one language to another by a proficient provider.
For reference on standards expected in translation practice, USCIS’ guidance on translations specifies what the translator’s certification must establish.
A translator certification statement should state that:
- The translation is accurate.
- The translation is complete.
- The translator is competent to translate from the source language into English.
This accuracy statement matters because a partial translation can leave out critical information, thus not providing a full display of the document’s contents. The certification should also identify the translator. A complete certification typically includes the translator’s name and signature. It may share contact information so the recipient can connect the certification to a specific person and request clarification if necessary.
How should the document languages and layout be handled?
The translation should specify both the original language of the document being translated and the language of translation. It should also preserve the structure of the diploma. Names, dates, degree titles, institution details, and other relevant information should be accurately translated.
Formatting does not always need to be an exact visual replica, particularly when the original uses a complex design. However, the translated document should retain the original’s meaning, organization, and identifying information. Any text that cannot be as simply translated as a country name or academic subject should be handled transparently rather than silently omitted; for example, seals, stamps, signatures, and other distinguishing elements ought to be explained in the translation.
How is a plain translation different?
A plain translation may communicate the general meaning of a diploma, but it does not necessarily include a formal certification of accuracy, completeness, and competence. It may also lack the translator’s signature. A recipient might accept an informal translation for preliminary understanding, but it may not satisfy the requirements. Furthermore, an informal translation may not be perceived as valid or trustworthy.
Certified Translation vs. Credential Evaluation: What’s the Difference?
As previously stated, a translation of a foreign academic document communicates what your diploma says in English, but it does not determine the US academic equivalent of your education. For this, individuals and organizations alike turn to credential evaluations. Rather than a linguistic translation, a credential evaluation provides an educational “translation” of sorts; that way a university, employer, licensing board, or immigration agency has a better idea of your academic level.
| Purpose | What it does | When you need it | Who performs it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified translation | Converts the words and information in a foreign-language document to English and certifies its accuracy and completeness. | When an institution or agency requires critical documentation to be understood in English. | A qualified translator who can certify accuracy and competence in the relevant languages. |
| Credential evaluation | Interprets the educational achievement and finds an equivalent credential in US terms. | For university admissions, employment, professional licensure, or immigration petitions who require an educational equivalency before issuing an offer, acceptance letter, license or travel authorization. | A credential evaluation service that reviews academic documentation, applies evaluation standards, and recommends US equivalencies. |
How Much Does It Cost to Translate a Foreign Academic Document?
The cost of translations depends on more than the number of pages. Language pair, turnaround time, and the type of certification requested can all affect the final quote. It ultimately depends on the policies, services and options of the translator you retain.
Public pricing from several translation providers gives a useful starting point. RushTranslate lists diploma translation at approximately $24.95 per page, while ImmiTranslate advertises prices starting at $25 per page. U.S. Language Services lists a rate of $39 per page.
What can increase the price of a diploma translation?
Ask what the quoted price includes. Expedited service may come at an additional cost, but it could be worth it if you’re up against an approaching deadline. Notarization, if specifically requested by the receiving organization, may also be an additional service. Some providers price by the page, while others may quote based on the language, document complexity, or amount of text. If an agency cannot provide a translation of a certain language, it may cost more to find a specialist who can.
Being a corporate member of the American Translators Association, IEE is also a provider of translations, regularly sending to institutions across the US, from universities to USCIS. Costing $60 per page, IEE translations are accurate, handled by experts, and produced in a timely manner. You can review the professional certified translation services page before moving forward.
How a Credential Evaluation Uses Your Translations
Translation of academic documents creates accessibility for your chosen evaluator. It breaks down a language barrier, which gives the evaluator easier access to your academic story. Once it is translated, the evaluator takes on the ability to assess and equate your achievements, which can ultimately help you pursue your life goals in the US.
Before an evaluation can proceed, the translation must be an accurate, precise, word-for-word English version of the official document required for evaluation. Credential evaluators like IEE regularly see translations of official academic transcripts, degree certificates, marriage certificates, name change forms and more. In the event there is a problem with your translation, your evaluator will reach out; examples of translation problems include an incomplete translation, inconsistent information, errors and typos, or even the wrong kind of document being translated. During the evaluation process, be sure to check for updates, document requests or translation needs.
How the evaluation supports your next step
Once the translated diploma and other required documents are ready, an evaluation can be produced. Credential evaluations support prospective students applying to US universities. Professionals may need credential evaluations when searching for a role in the US. They may also need a professional license from a state regulatory body; this applies to occupations in fields like accounting, cosmetology, nursing or teaching. Lastly, individuals may use an evaluation to support an immigrant or work visa application; the credential evaluation can demonstrate eligibility for a certain visa category.
IEE provides credential evaluation services, but it can only do so if all documents are received, along with their complete and accurate English translations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a certified translation for a foreign credential?
Often, yes. Schools, employers, licensing boards and immigration authorities may require a certified English translation when your original diploma or transcript is written in another language. USCIS certainly requires certified English translations of foreign-language documents submitted for immigration purposes, with certification requirements described in its Policy Manual.
Can I translate my own diploma into English?
It is not recommended to rely on a self-translation. The receiving organization may require an independent translator or translation service to confirm that the document is complete and accurate. It may want a member of the American Translators Association to guarantee standards. Check the exact submission instructions before ordering a translation, especially if the document will support an immigration, academic, employment, or licensing purpose.
What information must be included in a certified translation?
A certified translation includes a statement that the translation is complete and accurate. It also displays a statement that the translator is competent to translate from the original language into English. Lastly, the translator should sign the certification and provide contact information.
What is the difference between a translation and a credential evaluation?
A translation converts the words on your diploma into English. A credential evaluation interprets your education and explains its equivalent in the United States. If your documents are not in English, accurate translation generally comes first so the evaluator can understand the academic information before reviewing and equating.
How long does it take to translate a foreign credential’s documents?
Turnaround depends on the document’s length, language, formatting, and whether you request standard or expedited service. Ask the provider for a timeline before placing your order, and order early so you can focus on other application components before your deadline.
Ready to Request Your Credential Evaluation?
Once your foreign credential has been accurately translated, you can start the credential evaluation process, which will put you on course to pursue your academic, professional or immigration goals. Review the requirements and request a credential evaluation from IEE after your translation is complete, and to turn it into a clear evaluation of your international education.
