Are you preparing for a study experience abroad?

It involves an extensive paperwork process, which requires the transcript of records. You should know about those important documents beforehand.

Also known as academic records, the transcripts are closely integrated with the learning agreement plan. That plan specifies the opted-in courses, research and training or teaching activities.

This agreement is valid when it is attested and approved by both, your home university and the host -college or institution. If there is any change in the agreement, it should be agreed upon by all-the two colleges and yourself.

In essence, the learning agreement and the transcript of records consist of the academic recognition of your studies and the earned credits under the study program.

Transcript of Records (ToR)

It refers to a document that you need to present as a part of the application process at the future host university from abroad. In case of undergoing an exchange programme, you would require another official transcript at the end of the study session.

Checklist of documents for ToR

It is a composition of all courses that you have opted in and the credits you gained.

Usually, it carries all these docs:

• The course code (basically the code the host university gives to a specific academic course)
• The title of the opted-in courses at your host university
• The duration of the course (like one semester or two)
• The grade/score (your exam mark)
• The ECTS credits you have gained by passing the exam

Probably, your home university may not use the ECTS system. In that case, you need to explain the credits and grading system. Even, you can spotlight it over the internet while describing the grading scale at the institution when you apply for transcript services. The description should explain the highest and lowest grades.

In India, each university has its own set of rules. It’s compulsory to go through them beforehand and then, apply for the ToR. Here, you have a right to get it when your result is awaited for the final year or semester.

Why is it needed?

As the host college or institution needs to know about the list of exams you have passed during the exchange program or an academic year, you would fill it in the form.

Although every university follows different rules, yet you can hire an outsourcer to get the true copy of the transcript. If you intend, you can directly call the principal or dean to get your marksheet and degree attested from.

As soon as you get it, deliver it to your home and international institution/ university together. The foreign university may verify its authenticity also.

What if the ToR is not there and the time to leave has come?

It’s a critical situation. With the end of an academic year, there appears a massive rush in getting the transcript. So, delay may happen, as the number of applicants to get it is more.

Consider the best alternative that has been mentioned above. An outsourcer can help you in battling this situation. Besides, you can request your principal of the university to send the transcript directly right after the results to the international school or university where you are likely to go for further studies.

Generally, three hard copies of the transcript together with original degree and marksheet/ score card are required.

What to look for in it?

Double check if all required fields are filled, especially these:

• Date
• Signature of the administration officer
• Stamp of the Institution

Keep into account that the transcript can be rejected if it is incomplete. It must read the aforesaid details, as the universities need them for the reference.