Guide · Certified translations
Which translations do I need for uni-assist and university applications?
A university application needs a coherent set of documents. This guide separates the translation assignment from the application itself and the later admission decision.
Reviewed on 27 October 2026
The short answer
Check the university, application procedure and uni-assist country instructions first. Its general language standards require original-language certificates and, where needed, German or English translations. Transcripts may be part of the set; an official German or English version may remove the need for another translation.
Establish your actual application procedure
Record the university, programme and deadline. A preliminary review document may require a further application to the university afterwards. Treat translation and submission as separate steps rather than beginning preparation on the last upload day.
Use the procedure’s current official instructions. A friend’s earlier application or a checklist for another country may not fit. Save any particular language and translator requirements as a file or link for your enquiry.
Read more: uni-assist: certificates and translations
Prepare an organised set of records
Keep the award certificate, associated academic records and expressly requested attachments identifiable. Give files clear names based on qualification and document type. Use complete page images and retain their source order.
Translation does not convert grades or decide whether a qualification is equivalent. If an official explanation of the grading system is requested, obtain that supporting evidence separately. Tell us which records actually need translating.
Coordinate translation and submission
Before uploading, check that each source can clearly be matched to its translation. Do names and document descriptions agree? Are the agreed pages present? Keep final files separate from drafts so that an unfinished version is not uploaded accidentally.
The application procedure sets technical upload rules and deadlines. Completing your translation does not submit your application or replace payment and assessment by uni-assist. Monitor messages in the application portal and requests for additional material.
Read more: uni-assist: uploading documents
Your next steps
Check current university, procedure and country instructions.
List each record and whether it needs translating.
Supply the language direction and specific requirements.
Submit the final files yourself through the correct procedure in time.
More questions
Does a certificate already in English need a German translation?
Not automatically. Check current language standards, country instructions and any particular university requirements.
Does ordering a translation include applying to university?
No. Translation is one service; the application, deadlines and submission remain part of your admissions procedure.
Can I leave out the transcript?
Commission the scope required by your actual checklist. Omitting a requested attachment can lead to a request for further evidence.
Sources and further reading
The receiving organisation’s current instructions matter for your assignment. Send them to us with your documents.
Prepare your documents and requirements
Start with a free initial estimate or discuss any special requirements with us.
Free, no registration and not yet an order.