Transcripts , Transcripts vs Marksheets
You might have heard about different types of academic documents such as marksheets, degrees, diplomas, scorecards, etc. However, many students may still be unaware of what a transcript is. These documents play a crucial role in showcasing the academic achievements students have made over the duration of their course. Sometimes, despite being crucial for higher education, study abroad applications, and job opportunities, transcripts are overlooked or misunderstood.
In this blog, we discussed an academic transcript, including its importance, uses, how to apply for one, its format, and a sample.
- What is an Academic Transcript?
- Why is the Transcript of Record an Important Document for Students?
- How to Get an Academic Transcript from Indian Colleges & Universities?
- Application Process for an Academic Transcript
- What Documents Are Required When Applying for an Academic Transcript?
- Request Letter for Obtaining an Academic Transcript
- What is the Difference Between Academic Transcript & Marksheet?
- Key Takeaways by AdmitX
- FAQs
What is an Academic Transcript?
An official record of education that includes the student’s personal information, institutional details, and course-related information such as courses a student has completed, including module titles, grades achieved, and the corresponding credits earned.
This document is issued by the college or university where the student is enrolled, this record plays an important role in showcasing academic accomplishments.
It serves as an essential tool for validating a student’s performance and is widely used for the recognition of academic achievements both nationally and internationally. Transcript is often also referred to as transcript of record.
Why is the Transcript of Record an Important Document for Students?
The transcript of a record can be an important document for students because it contains the verified academic information such as credits earned, modules pursued, subjects studied, and credit hours completed.
It is generally used as an application document for pursuing higher education programs, scholarships, visa, employment, etc., both in India and abroad. International universities and colleges often require transcripts to evaluate a student’s previous academic qualifications. It helps institutions assess whether the applicant meets their academic standards and prerequisites.
How to Get an Academic Transcript from Indian Colleges & Universities?
An academic transcript can be obtained from the college or university where you have completed your previous higher education. Generally, a separate application is required to be submitted, either online or offline, to obtain this document, and applicants might have to pay some charges, depending on the institution. Below, we have discussed how you can apply for an academic transcript, both online and offline.
Application Process for an Academic Transcript
Below, we have mentioned the general application process to obtain an academic transcript, both online and offline.
How to Apply for a Transcript Online?
- Visit the student portal or services section on your college/university’s website.
- Click on ‘Apply for Transcript.’
- Fill out the application form with all relevant details such as your name, father’s name, college attended, roll number, batch year, etc.
- Upload the required documents.
- Pay the required fee, if applicable.
- Submit the application form and download the acknowledgment receipt.
- Follow up with the student cell of your university regarding how and when you will receive the transcript.
- Generally, universities either send the certificate via courier to your home address or email you a link to download it.
How to Apply for a Transcript Offline?
- Visit the student cell or admin office in your university
- Obtain the application form by paying the required fees
- Fill out the application form and attach the required documents with it.
- Submit the form and receive the acknowledgment receipt.
- If required, follow up with the student cell or admin office regarding how and when you will receive the certificate.
- In this case, universities either send the certificate via courier to your home or ask you to visit the office to collect it physically.
What Documents Are Required When Applying for an Academic Transcript?
While applying for an academic transcript, following documents are required to be submitted. Depending on the university, the list might differ so it is advisable to go through the institution for specific details.
- Completed Application Form
- Request Letter
- One of the following identity proofs
- Aadhar Card
- Voter ID Card
- Driving License
- PAN Card
- Passport
- Academic marksheets of all semesters and degree certificate.
- Fee receipt for payment for obtaining an academic transcript
- 1 recent passport-size photograph
- Syllabus of the program/course studied and/or details of the paper code, paper title, maximum marks, obtained marks, subject credits, grade point, and credit points earned as applicable.
Request Letter for Obtaining an Academic Transcript
You can simply copy and paste the below format for the request letter onto A4-size paper, fill in all the relevant information, attach the required documents, and submit it to the university.
[Your Name]
[Your Roll Number / Student ID]
[Course Name & Year of Completion]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Email ID]
[Phone Number]
Date: [DD/MM/YYYY]
To
The Registrar / Controller of Examinations
[Name of the Institution / University]
[Institution’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
Subject: Request for Issuance of Academic Transcript
Respected Sir/Madam,
I am writing to kindly request the issuance of my academic transcript. I completed my [Name of Degree/Course, e.g., Bachelor of Commerce] from [Department Name] at [Name of Institution], in the academic year [Start Year – End Year, e.g., 2018–2021], bearing Roll Number/Student ID: [Your ID].
I require the transcript for [mention purpose – e.g., higher studies, job application, visa processing, etc.]. I would be grateful if you could initiate the process at the earliest. Please find enclosed the following documents to support my request:
- A copy of my degree certificate / provisional certificate
- A copy of my marksheets / grade reports
- A copy of my ID proof
- [Any other required documents, if applicable]
I am willing to pay any applicable processing fee. Kindly let me know if any further information or documentation is required.
I would be thankful for your support and prompt assistance.
Yours sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Signature, if submitting in print]
What is the Difference Between Academic Transcript & Marksheet?
Below, we have tabulated the differences between the academic transcript and mark sheet.
| Transcript | Marksheet |
|---|---|
| It covers a comprehensive academic record, including all courses, grades, and credits over the duration of a program. | Shows subject-wise marks obtained in a specific exam or semester |
| Covers a single semester/year | Covers the entire duration of the program/course |
| It contains subject names, marks obtained, total marks, and result status. | It contains course titles, module codes, grades/marks, credit hours, and GPA |
| Primarily used for internal assessment and progression. | Required for higher education, credit transfer, study abroad, or job applications. |
| Not commonly accepted internationally without a transcript | Widely recognised by international universities and institutions |
Key Takeaways by AdmitX
An academic transcript is an official document issued by a university or college that records a student’s complete academic history. It includes details such as courses studied, grades received, credit hours earned, and overall performance throughout the duration of a program. Transcripts are essential for applying to higher education institutions, securing employment, or processing international applications such as visas.
They serve as formal proof of academic achievement and are widely accepted by universities and employers across the globe. To obtain a transcript, students usually need to submit a request to the institution along with relevant documents and fees.
FAQs
What is an academic transcript?
An academic transcript is an official document issued by a college or university that records a student’s complete academic history. It includes details like subjects studied, grades earned, credit hours, and overall academic performance throughout the course.
When do I need an academic transcript?
You need an academic transcript when applying for higher studies, scholarships, internships, or jobs—especially abroad. It’s also commonly required for visa applications, credit transfers, and professional licensing.
How is a transcript different from a mark sheet or degree certificate?
While a mark sheet shows subject-wise marks for individual semesters and a degree certificate confirms course completion, a transcript offers a consolidated summary of your entire academic journey, including grades, credits, and cumulative performance.
How can I apply for an academic transcript?
To apply, you usually need to submit a formal request to your university along with necessary documents like mark sheets, your ID proof, and the required fee. Some institutions offer online application systems, while others follow an offline process.
Is an academic transcript accepted internationally?
Yes, transcripts are widely accepted and often mandatory for international admissions, job applications, and credential evaluations. They provide a standardized way for global institutions and employers to assess your academic qualifications.
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