Guide · Certified translations
Transcript of Records, Diploma Supplement or certificate: what needs translating?
Several academic records can relate to one qualification without being interchangeable. What matters is the information actually requested.
Reviewed on 27 October 2026
The short answer
A transcript records academic results, an award certificate records the qualification, and a Diploma Supplement explains the qualification and its context. Check which records the recipient requires and which official language versions already exist. An English supplement does not automatically replace a requested certificate or transcript.
Match document names to their content
Create an overview of the title printed on each record, qualification and information included. Different institutional names can then be discussed by content rather than calling every file a certificate.
For uni-assist, check certificates and academic records against the relevant instructions. Use the actual application and country checklist to match your available document types to the requested evidence.
Read more: uni-assist: certificates and translations
Review official language versions first
Ask your institution about existing official German or English versions. Identify whether each file is institution-issued, a private rendering or an existing certified translation.
For a ZAB assessment, the individual requirements establish additional translation needs. Use this guide to identify records and the relevant procedure guide for submission.
Read more: ZAB: Statement of Comparability FAQ
Do not independently reshape academic records
Preserve complete tables, page order and explanatory attachments. Translation is not an independent grade conversion; clarify any required explanations or additional confirmations as separate evidence.
If only particular records are requested, document that selection. An enquiry can then distinguish the award certificate, transcript and supplement precisely and avoid unnecessary duplication.
Your next steps
Identify records by their actual content.
List existing official language versions.
Check the selection against the recipient’s list.
Enquire using the complete confirmed scope.
More questions
Does the supplement replace my transcript?
Not automatically. Check which information and records the recipient expressly requests.
Does translation convert my grades?
A language translation is not an independent equivalence or grade assessment. Ask the competent recipient about separate assessments.
Should I retype the tables first?
Provide complete legible sources instead. Retyping can change order, details or context.
Sources and further reading
The receiving organisation’s current instructions matter for your assignment. Send them to us with your documents.
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