Applying to a college in the United States with a degree from abroad? Then you will likely need to translate a foreign diploma and your transcripts into English. In this guide, we explain what schools ask for, how evaluations work and how to get it done quickly.
Why you must translate a foreign diploma for US schools
After all, admissions teams must understand your education history. For example, they check your degree title, the school and your grades. As a result, most US universities ask for a certified English translation of any record that is not in English.
Translation vs. credential evaluation
Unfortunately, many students mix up these two steps. However, they are different services:
| Certified translation | Credential evaluation | |
|---|---|---|
| What it does | Turns your record into English | Compares your degree to a US degree |
| Who does it | A professional translator | An evaluation agency |
| Changes grades? | No | May convert to a US GPA |
| Often needed first? | Yes | Uses the translation |
For instance, agencies such as WES publish their own document rules, so check them before you order.
How to translate a foreign diploma, step by step
- First, read the school’s rules. Look for “international applicants” on the admissions site.
- Next, scan the diploma and transcript. Include every page and seal.
- Then, order a certified translation. Upload your files on our Order Now page.
- After that, send it to the evaluator, if needed. Many schools want both.
- Finally, submit everything together. Send the original copy, translation and evaluation.
What to include when you translate a foreign diploma
- First, the degree title and field of study.
- Next, the school name and dates of study.
- Then, every course name, grade and credit.
- Finally, all seals, signatures and stamps.
In addition, the translator signs a certificate of accuracy. As a result, the translation is ready for admissions offices and evaluators.
Florida students and universities
In fact, Florida welcomes many international students. For example, schools in Gainesville, Tampa, Miami and Orlando often ask for translated records. See our Gainesville page, or our academic document translation service.
Frequently asked questions
Is a translation the same as a credential evaluation?
No. A translation turns your diploma into English. In contrast, a credential evaluation compares your degree to a US degree.
Do universities accept certified translations?
Most do. However, each school sets its own rules, so check the admissions page before you order.
Should grades be converted to the US system?
No. A translator keeps the original grades. Instead, an evaluation agency converts them if the school asks for it.
Can you translate my transcript too?
Yes. We translate diplomas and transcripts together, so course names and grades stay consistent.
Translate your diploma and transcript
Certified translation from $20 per page, with a USCIS acceptance guarantee. Or call toll-free +1-800-901-0168.