Certified-sworn translation of transcripts and diplomas
Why translate your academic transcript?
The academic transcript is one of the most important documents for any student wishing to study abroad. When applying to a foreign university, whether through an Erasmus+ exchange program, a master's or doctoral enrollment, or a degree equivalence application, admissions offices very often require a sworn translation of your transcript produced by a professional. This requirement ensures that admissions committees can evaluate your academic record fairly and precisely.
Foreign transcripts use grading systems, credit units, and terminology specific to each country that must be made understandable to evaluators. The sworn translation guarantees that every grade, every credit, and every mention is correctly translated and that the translated document has official value recognized by the receiving institution.
Which universities require a sworn translation?
Nearly all European and North American universities require a sworn translation of transcripts for applicants who have studied in a language other than the institution's language of instruction. The most demanding universities include those in the United Kingdom (Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College), Germany (LMU Munich, TU Berlin), the United States (Ivy League, state universities), Canada (University of Toronto, McGill, UBC), Australia (University of Melbourne, UNSW), and Switzerland (EPFL, ETH Zurich).
Even French-speaking universities in Belgium, French-speaking Switzerland, or Quebec may require a sworn translation if the original transcript is not in French. It is always advisable to check the specific requirements of each institution before applying, as some universities have particular formatting or certification requirements for translations.
How to order your transcript translation
With DocuTrad, ordering a sworn translation of your academic transcript is simple and fast. Visit our dedicated transcript translation page, upload a clear, complete copy of your transcript (all pages, including front and back if applicable). Our team provides a free quote and indicates the delivery timeline. The rate is 27 €/page, with delivery within 24 to 48 hours.
Your translation will be performed by a sworn translator specializing in academic documents, who is thoroughly familiar with university terminology, grading systems (20-point scale, ECTS system, American GPA), and the specificities of each country. You will receive your certified translation by email, ready to be attached to your university application.
Information to verify before ordering
Before ordering your translation, verify several important points. First, ensure your transcript is complete: it must include all semesters or academic years, grades for each subject, ECTS credits, and the diploma notation if applicable. An incomplete transcript risks being rejected by the receiving institution. Second, check whether the receiving university requires a sworn translation or accepts a simple translation certified by your home institution.
Third, find out about the required language: some universities accept translations in English, while others require the official language of the country. Finally, check apostille requirements: some countries outside the EU may require your original transcript to be apostilled in addition to being translated.
Erasmus transcript translation
The Erasmus+ program is one of the most common contexts for sworn translation of academic transcripts. Every year, more than 300,000 European students benefit from an Erasmus grant to study in a different European country. For grades earned at the host university to be recognized by the home university, a sworn translation of the foreign transcript is generally required, even though the ECTS system provides a common framework for credit transfer.
Practical tips for students
For international students, here are some valuable tips for managing your sworn translations effectively. Plan ahead: order your translations as soon as you have your transcript, without waiting for the application deadline. University deadlines are strict and an incomplete file can be automatically rejected. Order extra copies: order additional copies of your translation if you are applying to multiple institutions simultaneously. Check equivalencies: some universities request an equivalence statement in addition to the transcript translation. Finally, keep your translations both digitally and physically: they will be useful throughout your academic and professional career.
