Table of Contents
- 1 What is transcript translation?
- 2 When do you need an academic transcript translation?
- 3 How to translate an academic transcript with official validity?
- 4 Things to consider when choosing a transcript translation service
- 5 Potential problems in transcript translation and how to overcome them
- 6 Strategies to ensure accuracy and authenticity
- 7 How to find a sworn translator?
- 8 Why choose Thiqa Legal Translation & Services for your transcript translation?
- 9 Frequently Asked Questions for Transcript Translation
When applying for a job or studying abroad, translating academic transcripts becomes almost essential. Many universities and employers require not only certificates but also complete academic records, including courses, grades, and GPA, which must be translated into their language.
But how do you translate these documents in an officially acceptable way? Can you translate them yourself? Or do you need a certified translator?
This guide explains who needs academic transcript translation, how to obtain it, and what certification is required to avoid rejection.
What is transcript translation?
Transcript translation refers to the professional translation of academic records (e.g., grade sheets, certificates, university transcripts) from one language to another.
This is especially necessary when applying for a job or studying abroad, as the authorities in that country may require your academic documents in the native language of the country. This translation is not just a translation; it needs to be accurate, government-approved, and often certified.
Academic transcript translation can open doors to new educational opportunities or careers for students if done correctly and by proper procedures.
When do you need an academic transcript translation?
Transcript translation is crucial in various situations where people need to display their academic records in a language other than the original language. Here are some of the situations where clients may need transcript translation services:
- Study Abroad: When applying for admission to a foreign college or educational institution, transcript translations are often required to demonstrate a student’s academic achievements and qualifications. Additionally, you will find documents commonly needed for study abroad applications here.
- Professional Licensing: People who want to get a professional license or certificate in another country usually need to translate their academic transcripts to prove their education.
- Scholarship Applications: Transcript translations may be requested as part of the application process for foreign scholarship or grant recipients.
- Immigration and Visa Applications: For visa categories, such as skilled worker visas or student visas, immigration officials in some countries may require translated transcripts as part of the application process.
- Professional Memberships: Some professional groups or associations ask for translated transcripts when you apply to become a member.
- Government and Regulatory Requirements: For various reasons, including visa or work permit renewal, several government agencies and regulatory authorities may require translated transcripts.
In each of these situations, transcript translation services are essential to enable them to clearly express their educational achievements and qualifications across linguistic and cultural boundaries.
How to translate an academic transcript with official validity?
When applying for university admission or a job abroad, academic transcripts (such as grade sheets and certificates) are often required to be translated into a language other than the original. But this translation must be certified and official, not just a simple translation.
Why is a simple translation not acceptable?
Many educational institutions and organizations do not accept ordinary translations, as they carry the risk of errors or fraudulent activity. This is why certified or sworn translations are required, where the translator confirms with their seal and signature that the translation is 100% identical to the original document.
Rules for translating academic transcripts in the UAE
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), to get a certified translation of academic documents, you must use a sworn translator approved by the Ministry of Justice (MOJ).
What should be included in a certified translation?
- The UAE MOJ must approve the translator.
- The translator submits the translation, signed and sealed with their official seal.
- It is mandatory to have the translator’s oath number and the words “Sworn Legal Translator” on each page.
- Sometimes, a “Grade Equivalency Table” is necessary to facilitate understanding of the scoring systems used in different countries.
Example:
Grading scales can vary in different countries’ education systems. For example, in one country, a passing grade of 5 out of 10 may be required, while in another country, a passing grade of 50 out of 100 may be required.
To account for such differences, a Grade Equivalency Table is often included in the translation, allowing UAE authorities to understand whether a student has passed or not clearly.
Things to consider when choosing a transcript translation service
- Pricing and Transparency: Pricing transparency is crucial. Be aware of how the pricing works and any additional charges that may be incurred.
- Speed and turnaround time: A balance must be struck between speed and accuracy. Consider the turnaround time of the service, especially if you have urgent needs that require prompt attention.
- Certified Translation: If your claims are for official or legal purposes, make sure the supplier provides certified translations that comply with applicable standards.
- Accuracy and Expertise: Look for a company with experience in accurately translating academic documents. The accuracy and correct communication of technical terms depend on subject-matter expertise.
Potential problems in transcript translation and how to overcome them
Despite being crucial in many educational and professional settings, transcription faces several challenges. From understanding difficult words to maintaining the integrity of the original work, several potential issues can arise. Here, we examine these common issues and offer solutions to ensure accuracy and validity in transcription and translation services, including certified services.
- Misinterpretation of grading scales: Different countries use different grading systems. Direct translation can lead to misunderstandings or false equivalences.
- Ignoring educational differences: Misunderstandings can occur if some courses, activities, or honours do not have direct equivalents in other nations.
- Non-standard formats: Each institution may have a different format for transcripts. Unfamiliar translators may incorrectly adjust them to the standards of the target country.
- Technical terminology: Specialized academic terminology can be challenging to translate. Hire subject matter experts who can effectively translate complex phrases, ensuring accuracy and maintaining the integrity of the document.
Strategies to ensure accuracy and authenticity
- Hire specialized services: Work with trusted translation services that focus on academic documents. This way, the accuracy of the transcript translation is ensured.
- Cross-check grading scales: As mentioned above, grading systems can vary from country to country. To ensure accurate representation of the grading system, cross-checking can be beneficial. Collaborate with experts familiar with both the source and target grading systems to ensure correct interpretation and conversion.
- Standardization and Review: Request that the translation service adhere to the accepted standard format of the organization or country. Consider having another professional check the translated material to identify potential errors.
Understanding the difficulties involved and adopting a well-informed approach to overcoming the hurdles of transcript translation is essential. By being aware of the potential pitfalls and implementing innovative solutions, one can ensure that their academic records are portrayed with integrity and truthfulness, opening the door to seamless international change in academic or professional activities.
How to find a sworn translator?
The UAE Ministry of Justice website lists approved translators.
Alternatively, you can also have the translation done through a licensed agency, such as Thiqa Legal Translation & Services.
Why choose Thiqa Legal Translation & Services for your transcript translation?
At Thiqa, we combine experienced translators with cutting-edge technology to deliver accurate and authoritative translation services for transcripts. We ensure that your academic records and certificates are translated with the true meaning of the original text. In addition to eliminating linguistic complications, we are committed to delivering results quickly and accurately. Our qualified team of translators, strict quality control, and reliable service make us special. If you want professional translations that open doors to your future, rely on Thiqa Legal Translation & Services.
Frequently Asked Questions for Transcript Translation
The number of words, the complexity of the content, and the language used can all affect the cost of a translation service. There can be varying levels of demand for different language pairs, translator availability, and overall complexity of the translation. To determine the cost, please visit the quote page and use the calculator to calculate your translation costs.
When working with other languages or countries, translation of transcripts may be required for various purposes, such as education, employment, or even legal proceedings. It is crucial to consider the needs of the institution or organization with which you are working.