Diploma Translation, Academic Certificates and Diploma Supplements
Certified translations for academic and professional recognition at home and abroad
Get a Free QuoteDiploma translation is essential for anyone seeking to have their academic qualifications recognised in another country, apply to higher education programmes, or practise a regulated profession. NARIC centres, professional regulatory bodies and universities require certified translations of diplomas, transcripts, diploma supplements and academic records issued abroad.
With more than 20 years of experience in translating academic documents, M21Global understands the requirements of each institution and delivers accurate translations with correct terminology and appropriate formatting. Our specialised linguists translate diplomas to and from more than 60 languages, ensuring the translated document meets all formal requirements for academic or professional recognition.
When is diploma translation needed
Certified diploma translation is required in several contexts: recognition of foreign academic degrees, registration with professional regulatory bodies (such as the GMC, Bar Council, Engineering Council, among others), applications to postgraduate programmes abroad, and qualification equivalence processes.
For citizens moving abroad, translating domestic diplomas is equally necessary when they wish to practise their profession or pursue studies in another country. In all these cases, the translation must be certified and is often accompanied by a Hague Apostille or consular legalisation.
Academic recognition and professional bodies
The process of qualification recognition involves national NARIC centres (for academic recognition) and professional regulatory bodies (for regulated professions). Each body has specific requirements regarding the format and type of certification of the translation. M21Global is familiar with these requirements in detail and prepares the translation accordingly.
In the context of the Bologna Process, diploma supplements and ECTS records facilitate comparability between European education systems, but translation remains mandatory when the original document is not in a language accepted by the receiving body. Our linguists command the specific terminology of European higher education, including degree designations, grading scales and ECTS credits.
Common challenges in academic translation
Diploma translation presents specific challenges that go beyond linguistic competence. Academic degree designations vary between countries and education systems: a German "Diplom", a French "Licence" or a Portuguese "Licenciatura" do not have direct equivalents and require careful treatment to avoid incorrect interpretations.
Other challenges include translating highly specialised subject names, different grading scales (0 to 20, A to F, percentages), and formatting that varies between institutions. Our linguists maintain up-to-date glossaries of academic terminology and verify each translation against the standards of the receiving institution, minimising the risk of rejection.
Certified translation vs. simple translation
Not all situations require the same level of certification. For informal applications or preliminary assessments, a simple translation may suffice. However, for official degree recognition, registration with professional bodies or equivalence processes, certified translation is mandatory.
M21Global always clarifies, before starting work, the type of translation appropriate for each case. The certified translation includes a signed declaration of accuracy and can be authenticated by a solicitor or notary, as required by the receiving institution. This prior clarification avoids unnecessary costs and ensures the document is accepted on first submission.
The M21Global process for academic documents
Our workflow for diploma translation follows a rigorous process. We begin by analysing the original document and identifying the receiving institution, which determines certification and formatting requirements. The assigned linguist is always a specialist in academic document translation with experience in the relevant language pair.
After translation, we carry out verification of terminology, degree designations, institution names, dates and grades. The delivery includes the document formatted according to the receiving institution's requirements, ready for submission. Where an apostille is needed, we advise the client on the next steps.
Deadlines and workflow
Translation of a diploma or academic certificate is normally completed within 48 to 72 hours, depending on the document's length and language combination. More extensive diploma supplements and transcripts may require longer timeframes. For urgent situations, we offer express service subject to availability.
We recommend placing the translation request well in advance of application or submission deadlines, especially when additional steps such as apostille or notarial authentication are required. M21Global sends the quote and estimated delivery time within 3 hours of receiving the document.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Our certified translations are accepted by NARIC centres, universities and professional regulatory bodies. We work in compliance with the ISO 17100 standard and provide a signed declaration of accuracy, which can be authenticated by a solicitor or notary as required.
It depends on the receiving institution. Many universities and recognition bodies request translation of both the diploma and the diploma supplement (or transcript), as the latter details the subjects, ECTS credits and grades. We recommend translating both documents to avoid requests for additional documentation that could delay the process.
We keep the original degree designation and include an explanatory note with the approximate equivalence in the target system, where applicable. This approach is recommended by international best practice and avoids incorrect interpretations. In cases of doubt, we consult the receiving institution's guidelines before finalising the translation.
Yes. We translate diplomas and academic documents to and from more than 60 languages, including all European languages, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Arabic and Russian. For each language combination, we assign native linguists with proven experience in translating academic documents.
In many cases, yes. The Hague Apostille is required when the translated document is to be presented in a country that is a signatory to the Hague Convention. M21Global advises the client on the need for an apostille and can handle this step on their behalf, simplifying the process.
The cost depends on the language pair, the length of the document and the type of certification required. To get an accurate quote, simply send a digitised copy of the diploma and indicate the receiving institution. We send the quote within 3 hours, with no obligation.
Yes. We translate transcripts of any length, maintaining the original tabular formatting and the exact correspondence of subject names, credits and grades. For lengthy documents, the delivery time is adjusted proportionally, and the quote reflects the actual volume of work.
Need Help with Your Translation?
Get a Free QuoteRelated Pages
Certified Translations
ISO 17100 certified translation service.
Learn moreCertificate Translation
Certified translation of certificates and personal documents.
Learn moreHow Much Does Professional Translation Cost?
Learn about the factors that influence translation costs.
Learn moreTranslation Services
All M21Global translation services.
Learn moreGet a Quote
Free quote within 3 hours.
Learn more