Translation
Testimonials
translate diploma
Have your diploma translated: This is how to ensure recognition!
A diploma certificate is your key to the world. To ensure it fits internationally, a certified translation is often necessary. We show you how to avoid pitfalls and which requirements must be met for your certificate to be recognised. Need direct assistance? Contact us for a non-binding offer!
The topic briefly and concisely
A certified translation of your diploma is often essential for applications and recognition abroad. It ensures that your qualifications are accurately represented.
The selection of a qualified and sworn translator is crucial. Pay attention to certifications like DIN EN ISO 17100 and experience with certificate translations to avoid mistakes.
Plan time and budget for the translation. The costs are typically between 30 and 100 EUR per certificate, and processing takes a few days to a week. Careful preparation speeds up the process.
Do you need a certified translation of your degree certificate? Discover what you need to consider to ensure your documents are internationally recognised. Find out now!
Introduction to Certified Translation of Graduation Certificates
Having a graduation certificate translated is often a crucial step towards achieving your academic and career goals abroad. Whether for applying to a university, recognition of your qualification, or visa applications – a correct and certified translation is essential. At Mentoc, we understand the importance of these documents and provide you with professional support to ensure your documents are recognized internationally.
The Importance of Certified Translation
A certified translation is more than just transferring text into another language. It is an official confirmation of the accuracy and completeness of the translation by a sworn translator. This is particularly important when you need to present your graduation certificate to authorities, universities, or employers abroad. An uncertified translation is usually not accepted.
Why is a certified translation necessary?
For applications to universities abroad: Many universities abroad require a certified translation of your school leaving certificate or higher education certificate to verify your qualifications.
For the recognition of qualifications abroad: If you wish to work abroad, you may need to have your qualification recognized. A certified translation is generally required for this purpose.
For visa applications and immigration processes: When applying for a visa or residence permit, authorities often require certified translations of your educational documents.
What is a Graduation Certificate?
A graduation certificate is an official document that certifies the successful completion of an education or degree. There are various types of certificates, which contain different information depending on the type of education. The correct translation of this information is crucial for the recognition of your qualifications.
Definition and Types of Certificates
School Certificates (e.g. school report, school leaving certificate): These certificates document your academic performance and successful completion of school education.
Vocational Training Certificates (Chamber of Commerce certificates): These certificates confirm the successful completion of vocational training.
Higher Education Certificates (Bachelor's certificate, diploma): These certificates document the successful completion of a degree at a college or university.
Work References (special requirements): Work references require special attention since they often contain a "coded language" that conveys subtle assessments of the employee.
Overview of the Article
In this article, you will learn everything you need to know about the certified translation of graduation certificates. We explain the process, offer tips for choosing the right translator, and show you what to look out for in the target country for recognition. Our goal is to provide you with a comprehensive guide to successfully navigate the translation process.
What You Will Learn in This Article
The significance of certified translation for various purposes
The detailed process of certified translation
How to select the right translator
Specific challenges in translating certificates
Costs and timeframe for the translation
Where to have your graduation certificate translated
Tips and tricks for a smooth translation
Certified translation in 5 steps: Here's how it works
The process of certified translation
The process of certified translation involves several crucial steps to ensure that your certificate is accurate and officially recognized. At Mentoc, we guide you through each of these steps to provide you with the best possible service. From preparing your documents to delivering the certified translation – we are here to assist you.
Step-by-step guide
The translation process can be divided into the following steps:
Document preparation
The first step is preparing your document. Make sure you have the original document or a certified copy. A simple copy is usually not sufficient. Check that all pages are legible and no important information is missing. This is particularly important if you need to translate your A-level certificate.
Original document or certified copy: A certified copy can be issued by an authority or a notary.
Selecting a suitable translator
Selecting the right translator is crucial for the quality and recognition of your translation. Ensure that the translator is sworn or authorized and has the necessary qualifications. A sworn translator is authorized by a court or authority to produce certified translations. Only these translators are allowed to issue a certification that makes your translation legally valid.
Sworn/authorized translator: Ensure the translator is recognized in the country where you intend to use the translation.
DIN EN ISO 17100 certification: This certification is a quality standard for translation services and ensures that the translator meets certain quality requirements.
Inquiry and quote
Once you have found a suitable translator, obtain a non-binding quote. Provide the translator with as much information as possible about the purpose of the translation and the requirements of the approving body. This helps the translator create an accurate quote and ensure the translation meets your needs. The price range for a certified translation in Germany typically spans between 30 and 100 EUR per document, but can vary depending on length, language combination, and urgency.
Obtaining a non-binding quote: Compare quotes from different translators to find the best value for money.
Price range: 30-100 EUR (guideline): Be aware this is only a guideline and actual costs may vary.
Translation and certification
Once you have accepted the quote, the translator begins the translation of your document. Upon completion of the translation, the translator affixes a certification stamp, signature, and confirmation note. This note confirms that the translation is accurate and complete and corresponds to the original document. The certification makes the translation legally valid and is recognized by authorities and institutions.
Review by the translator: The translator carefully checks the translation for errors and completeness.
Certification stamp, signature, and confirmation note: These elements are necessary to make the translation legally valid.
Delivery
After certification, you usually receive the translation as both a digital copy (PDF) and the original by post. The digital copy is convenient for quick forwarding via email, while the original is needed for submission to authorities and institutions. Ensure you carefully store the original translation, as you may need it later.
Digital copy (PDF) and original by post: Make sure you receive both versions.
How to find the right translator for your final certificate
Choosing the Right Translator
Selecting the right translator is a crucial factor for the quality and acceptance of your certified translation. At Mentoc, we work exclusively with experienced and qualified translators to ensure that your documents are translated accurately and professionally. We understand that every graduation certificate is unique and has specific requirements. Therefore, we place great emphasis on choosing the right translator for your project.
Qualifications and Certifications
When selecting a translator, pay attention to their qualifications and certifications. A sworn or certified translator is the best choice, as they are authorised by a government agency to produce certified translations. The certification is necessary for the official recognition of the translation by authorities and institutions.
Sworn/Certified Translators
A sworn translator has taken an oath in court and is authorised to confirm the accuracy and completeness of their translations. This confirmation is included in the form of a stamp, signature, and note on the translation. Without this certification, the translation is not legally valid and is generally not accepted.
The necessity of certification for official recognition: Ensure the translator is recognised in the country where you intend to use the translation.
DIN EN ISO 17100
DIN EN ISO 17100 is a quality management standard for translation services. Translation agencies certified according to this standard have implemented processes to ensure the quality of their translations. This includes selecting qualified translators, having translations reviewed by a second translator, and using translation memory systems to ensure terminology consistency. Compliance with DIN EN ISO 17100 indicates a high standard of quality.
Quality management standard for translation services: Look for this certification to ensure you receive a high-quality translation.
Experience and Expertise
In addition to formal qualifications, it is important that the translator has experience and expertise in the field of certificate translations. A translator who specialises in certificates understands the specific requirements and features of these documents. They know how to correctly translate grades, degrees, and other relevant information.
Specialisation in Certificate Translations
The translation of certificates requires a deep understanding of the education system and specific terminology. An experienced translator knows how to correctly translate various types of certificates (school reports, work references, university degrees) and find the corresponding equivalents in the target language. This is particularly important when you have your graduation certificate translated to study or work abroad.
Knowledge of the education system and terminology: A specialised translator knows the differences between education systems and can correctly translate the corresponding terms.
Experience with Different Types of Certificates
There are different types of certificates, each with different translation requirements. A school report, for instance, requires a different approach than a work reference. A university degree may require translating academic titles and course descriptions. An experienced translator knows the differences and can adapt the translation accordingly.
School reports, work references, university degrees: Ensure the translator has experience with the type of certificate you wish to have translated.
Language Combinations
Ensure that the translator masters the required language combination. For example, if you need to have your A-level certificate translated to apply to an English-speaking university, you need a translator who translates from German to English. Many translation agencies offer a wide range of language combinations, including EU languages, Asian languages, and Eastern European languages.
Wide Range of Languages
A good translation agency offers a wide range of language combinations to meet the needs of its clients. This is especially important if you need to have your graduation certificate translated to apply in a country whose language is not widely spoken. Some translators also offer translation into different variants of a language, e.g., British and American English.
EU languages, Asian languages, Eastern European languages: Ensure the translator offers the desired language combination.
British and American English: If you need the translation in a specific variant of English, specify this when making the request.
Grades, employment references, technical terms: Mastering the challenges of translating certificates
Unique Challenges in Translating Certificates
Translating certificates is not an easy task. There are several unique challenges that must be considered to ensure the translation is accurate and comprehensible for the recipient. At Mentoc, we are aware of these challenges and employ experienced translators who have the necessary expertise to tackle them. We ensure that translating your graduation certificate is a success.
Grades and Grading Systems
One of the biggest issues in translating certificates is the correct transfer of grades and grading systems. Grade scales differ from country to country. It is important for the translator to know the differences and adjust the grades accordingly. It is important to note that grades are not converted but that the grade scales in the original document are merely explained.
Correct Transfer of Grades
The correct transfer of grades is crucial for the comparability of certificates. The translator must be familiar with the grading scales of the original country and the target country and adjust the grades appropriately. In some cases, it may be necessary to include an explanation of the grading scale to help the recipient interpret the grades.
Adjustment to foreign grading systems (if needed, but no conversion): The translator should not convert grades but simply explain the grading scale.
Translation of Grade Scales
The translation of grade scales is an important task to ensure that grades are understood in the target country. The translator should explain the grading scale in the original document and, if necessary, include a comparison table. This helps the recipient to correctly interpret the grades and assess the applicant’s achievements.
Explanation of grade scales in the original document: A clear and comprehensible explanation of the grading scale is essential.
Employment References
Employment references pose a particular challenge because they often contain a 'secret language' that conveys subtle evaluations of the employee. These subtle formulations must be deciphered by the translator and correctly translated into the target language. It is important for the translator to know the conventions in the target country and adapt the translation accordingly.
The 'Secret Language' of Employment References
Employment references often contain hidden messages that need to be read between the lines. The translator must recognise these messages and translate them into the target language without distorting the positive or negative nature of the reference. This requires a high degree of linguistic and cultural sensitivity.
Decoding and correctly translating subtle formulations: The translator must understand the 'secret language' of employment references and translate it correctly.
Adaptation to the Target Country’s Requirements
The requirements for employment references can vary from country to country. The translator must know the conventions in the target country and adapt the translation accordingly. In some countries, for instance, it is customary for employment references to be very detailed, while in others they tend to be brief and general.
Consideration of the target country’s conventions: The translator should adapt the translation to the conventions in the target country.
Technical Terminology
Translating certificates requires the correct translation of technical terms. This is particularly true for university certificates and vocational training certificates, which often contain a large number of technical terms. The translator must have comprehensive expertise to translate the terms correctly and ensure they are understood in the target country.
Correct Translation of Technical Terms
Correct translation of technical terms is crucial for the understandability of the translation. The translator must know the meaning of the terms in both the original and target countries and find the appropriate equivalents. In some cases, it may be necessary to include an explanation of the terms to assist the recipient's understanding.
Consistent terminology across all documents: The translator should ensure that the terminology is consistent across all documents.
Consideration of Regional Differences
Even within Germany, there are regional differences in terminology. For example, the different types of schools are referred to differently in each federal state. The translator must be aware of these differences and adjust the translation accordingly.
Differences within Germany (e.g., school types): The translator should consider the regional differences in terminology.
Save costs, plan time: How to optimize your certificate translation
Costs and Timeframe
The costs and timeframe for the certified translation of your degree certificate are important factors to consider when planning. At Mentoc, we offer transparent pricing and realistic time estimates, so you know exactly what to expect. We assist you in optimizing costs and making the translation process as efficient as possible.
Factors Affecting the Price
The cost of a certified translation depends on various factors:
Length of the Document
The longer the document, the higher the costs usually are. This is because the translator requires more time to carry out the translation. Typically, billing is done per A4 page or per word.
A4 Page or Word Count: Costs are usually calculated per A4 page or per word.
Language Combination
Some language combinations are more expensive than others. This is due to the smaller number of available translators for certain languages or because the translation is more challenging.
Is Certification Required?
The certification of the translation incurs additional costs, as the translator charges an extra fee for this service. However, certification is often required to officially recognize the translation.
Express Service
If you need the translation particularly quickly, you can opt for an express service. However, this is typically more expensive than the standard service.
Average Costs
The average costs for a certified translation range between 30 and 100 EUR per certificate. However, actual costs may vary depending on the factors mentioned above. It is advisable to get several quotes and compare prices.
Price Range: 30-100 EUR per Certificate (Estimate)
This is merely an estimate. Actual costs may vary.
Timeframe
The timeframe for the translation depends on the length of the document, the language combination, and the availability of the translator. Typically, a certified translation takes several days up to a week. If you require the translation particularly quickly, an express service is available.
Standard vs. Express
A standard service usually takes several days to a week. An express service can deliver the translation within 24 hours, but it is generally more expensive.
Consider Postal Times
If you wish to receive the translation by post, you should consider the postal times. This can take several days, especially for international shipments.
Online services, local offices: How to find the best provider for certificate translations
Where can you have graduation certificates translated?
There are various options for having your graduation certificate translated. At Mentoc, we offer you a convenient and reliable solution to have your documents professionally translated and certified. We work with a network of experienced translators and provide a comprehensive service that meets all your needs. Whether online or local – we help you find the best provider for your certificate translation.
Online translation services
Online translation services are a convenient way to have your graduation certificate translated. You can simply upload your documents and receive an offer within a short time. Many online services also offer an express service if you need the translation particularly quickly.
Advantages and disadvantages
The advantages of online translation services are the convenience, speed, and often more affordable prices. The disadvantages include the lack of personal contact with the translator and the potential inconsistency in translation quality.
Well-known providers (Olingua, Lingoking, Alphatrad, Lingidoo, Fachuebersetzungsdienst)
There are numerous online translation services that specialize in translating certificates. Some well-known providers are Lingidoo, Alphatrad, Lingoking, Fachuebersetzungsdienst, and Olingua. Compare the prices and services of different providers to find the best offer for your needs.
Local translation offices
Local translation offices offer the advantage of personal contact with the translator, allowing you to discuss your requirements directly. This can be particularly beneficial for complex or sensitive documents.
Advantages: Personal consultation
Personal contact with the translator allows for individual consultation and better alignment of the translation to your needs. You can ask your questions directly and ensure that the translator understands your requirements.
Disadvantages: Potentially higher costs
Local translation offices are often more expensive than online translation services. This is due to higher operating costs and generally taking more time to complete the translation.
Important criteria when choosing
When selecting a translation service, you should consider the following criteria:
Certification, experience, language combinations, price, reviews
Ensure the translator is certified and has experience in translating certificates. Check if the translator offers the required language combinations and compare the prices of different providers. Read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the translation quality.
Seamless Translation: How to Avoid Mistakes and Speed Up the Process
Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Translation
A smooth translation of your final certificate saves time and nerves. At Mentoc, we provide valuable tips and tricks to help you prepare the translation process optimally and avoid possible mistakes. We support you in ensuring the recognition of your documents in the target country.
Preparation is Everything
Good preparation is the key to a successful translation. Make sure you have all relevant information and documents together before contacting the translator. The better prepared you are, the faster and more efficiently the translator can work.
Clear Instructions for the Translator
Give the translator clear instructions and information about the purpose of the translation and the requirements of the recognising body. The more precise your instructions, the better the translator can tailor the translation to your needs.
Providing Relevant Information (e.g. Application Context)
Provide the translator with all relevant information they need for the translation. This could be the context of your application or the requirements of the recognising body. The more information the translator has, the better they can adjust the translation.
Reviewing the Translation
After receiving the translation, you should review it carefully. Look out for errors, inaccuracies, and missing information. If you find errors, contact the translator and ask them to correct them.
Careful Review of Translated Documents
Take your time to carefully review the translated documents. Check for errors, inaccuracies, and missing information. Compare the translation with the original document to ensure that all information has been correctly conveyed.
Consulting the Translator When Necessary
If you have any questions or concerns, contact the translator and discuss them with them. The translator can help you understand the translation and correct any mistakes.
Ensuring Recognition in the Target Country
Inform yourself in advance about the requirements of the recognising body in the target country. Find out what type of translation (certified or non-certified) is required and what specific requirements are placed on the translation. This helps ensure that the translation is recognised in the target country.
Obtaining Information from the Recognising Body
Contact the recognising body in the target country and enquire about the specific requirements for the translation. This helps ensure that the translation is recognised in the target country.
Observing Specific Requirements
Observe the specific requirements of the recognising body in the target country. This might involve using specific terminology or adhering to certain formatting guidelines.
Professional translation ensures success: Presenting your graduation certificate optimally
Conclusion
The certified translation of your graduation certificate is a crucial step towards achieving your academic and career goals abroad. A professional translation ensures that your documents are translated accurately and completely, and are recognised in the destination country. At Mentoc, we support you in successfully navigating the translation process and achieving your goals.
Summary of Key Points
In this article, we have covered the key aspects of certified translation of graduation certificates. We explained the process, offered tips for choosing the right translator, and showed you what to consider for recognition in the destination country. We hope this guide helps you successfully manage the translation process.
The Importance of a Professional Translation
A professional translation is crucial for the recognition of your documents in the destination country. A correct and complete translation ensures that your qualifications are accurately represented and that your application is successful. Invest in a professional translation to maximise your chances of success.
Outlook on Future Developments
The importance of certified translation will continue to grow in the future as globalisation progresses further. More and more individuals are studying and working abroad. Therefore, a professional translation is essential for having your qualifications recognised internationally.
Do you need a certified translation of your graduation certificate? At Mentoc, we offer you professional translations that are internationally recognised. Our team of sworn translators and experienced proofreaders ensures that your documents are translated accurately and in compliance with legal standards. We understand how important a correct translation is for your application or recognition. Contact us today for a non-binding offer and to take the first step towards your success abroad. Contact us!
More useful links
Mentorium provides information on the certification of certificates.
Olingua informs about the price range for certified translations of certificates.
Lingoking describes the necessity of certification for the official recognition of translations.
Fachuebersetzungsdienst emphasizes adherence to DIN EN ISO 17100 as a quality standard.
Alphatrad offers certified translations of certificates.
Lingidoo provides information on translating certificates.
GermanyTS highlights the special challenges of translating work certificates.
FAQ
What is a certified translation and why do I need it for my diploma?
A certified translation is an official translation carried out and certified by a sworn translator. You need it to ensure that your diploma is recognised by authorities, universities, or employers abroad.
Where can I find a qualified and sworn translator for my diploma?
You can find qualified translators online through translation services like Mentoc or locally through translation agencies. Make sure that the translator is sworn and has the necessary qualifications.
How long does a certified translation of my diploma take?
The duration depends on the length of the document, language combination, and translator availability. Typically, it takes a few days up to a week. Express services are often available.
How much does a certified translation of my diploma cost?
Costs vary depending on the length of the document, language combination, and certification effort. You can expect a price range of 30 to 100 EUR per diploma.
What types of diplomas can be translated?
School certificates (A-levels), vocational training certificates (IHK certificates), university transcripts (Bachelor’s, Diploma), and employment references can be translated. Employment references require special attention due to their specific wording.
What should I consider when preparing my diploma for translation?
Ensure you have the original document or a certified copy. Check that all pages are readable and no important information is missing.
Will my grades be converted during the translation of my diploma?
Grades are generally not converted, rather the grading scales in the original document are explained to ensure comparability.
What is DIN EN ISO 17100 and why is it important?
DIN EN ISO 17100 is a quality management standard for translation services. Compliance with this standard indicates a high-quality standard and ensures that the translator meets certain quality requirements.
