Educational systems and grading standards differ across the globe. To be eligible for the American institutions you are applying for, you must provide your documented educational history.
Who Needs To Provide A Foreign Transcript Evaluation?
The answer varies depending on the university or educational institute you are applying to. Check the application requirements to determine if you need a foreign high school transcript evaluation. You can find it in the admission requirements for international students.
You won’t need to do this if you graduated from an American high school in your home country or completed the International Baccalaureate. You would need the evaluation if you completed a local diploma from your country.
What the Evaluation Process Looks Like
The best foreign transcript evaluation service uses a process that includes the following:
- Translation of relevant educational documents from the original language to English
- Converting GPA scores, grades, and test scores to US equivalents
- Authenticating document validity and institutions the applicant attended
A foreign transcript evaluation transcript or report will include the following:
- Credential verification
- A description of all education credentials
- Proof of authenticity of all documents submitted
- Equivalency for Grade Point Average
This information helps educational institutions in the US understand your qualifications and educational background. It allows them to make informed decisions regarding admissions and transfers. As per the evaluation you chose, they may get detailed information about each course you have taken in your home country and the grades you achieved for each.
Types of Evaluations You May Need
The first thing you need to do after finding a transcript evaluation service determines the type you need. You can opt for the following:
Course-By-Course
Most applicants prefer course-by-course evaluations. To be sure, check the university’s website.
The evaluation will include the US equivalence for your high school credentials, grades, and grade average. Make sure to include your high school grades if you completed two years of education at your university. The transcription service will convert each course you took during college into a US equivalent, i.
e., Grade Scale and GPA.
Document-By-Document
Document-by-document evaluations cite the document that you provide. This includes your education, beginning from secondary school.
It is used for immigration purposes. You will be given points for Bachelors, Masters, and Ph.D., but the degree should have a US equivalent.
Primary Documents Needed For Transcript Evaluation
You may need to provide your high school transcripts or diploma. Some organizations may require that the institutions you graduated from transfer the documents to them. Others allow students to send them.
If your documents are not in English, you must submit a translation. Generally, you need to provide a high school diploma, a valid personal ID, and originals or certified copies of High School transcripts.
The US institution you are applying to may ask for additional documents per your circumstances.
Why Should You Get A Transcript Evaluation?
A transcript evaluation gives US educational institutions a snapshot of your educational background. As a crucial part of most university’s admission policies, it aids faculty members, registrars, and admission officers in determining the eligibility of international students for institutions.
These are also required by third parties other than higher education institutions. Employers require them from foreign employees who wish to immigrate to the United States. Similarly, foreigners also use these to apply for an H1B visa or permanent residency. It certifies that they are eligible to work in the US since they have the educational equivalency or level in the country for qualifications earned abroad.
What to Look For In an Evaluation Service?
Your academic credentials are crucial when your eligibility to work or study in the United States is assessed. So choose a NACES member evaluation professionals who meet these essential criteria:
Flexible Turnaround Time
You cannot afford to miss deadlines, especially during the admission process. Choose a service that offers quick and flexible turnaround for transcripts. It would be best to go for a service that can give reports the same day you contact them.
Reliable and Credible
Many fraudulent services are out there that don’t care about your future. Choose an agency recognized by US employers, licensing boards, and educational institutions. The reports should also be easy to read and comprehend.
Reliable Customer Service
Applying to a foreign university can be overwhelming for first-timers. They aren’t credible if they take ages to return your calls or answer emails.
They should also be able to provide you with information in English or various languages.
Choose a High School transcript evaluation service that meets all of the above qualities to prevent delays. The transcript may differ depending on the service you choose. So pick a service that can guarantee results and has a positive track record.
