Official versus Unofficial Transcripts
A transcript is a document that records the grades obtained by a student in an educational institution. There are both official and unofficial transcripts provided by universities and other educational institutions, and it is important for students to understand the difference between the two. This article will explore the distinctions between official and unofficial transcripts.
Key Takeaways
- An official transcript is a formal document endorsed with the signature of the registrar and the seal of the educational institution, and is kept inside a sealed envelope.
- An unofficial transcript is a copy of the official transcript, but it does not carry the signature or seal of the issuing authority and has no value outside the institution.
- Official transcripts are required by other colleges, government agencies, and prospective employers, while unofficial transcripts are typically used for personal records or internal purposes within the issuing institution.
What is Official Transcript?
When applying for a job, individuals may be asked by prospective employers to provide their official transcripts at the time of the interview. These documents contain the past results in the form of grades obtained in exams by the student, printed under the official seal of the educational institution and sealed inside an envelope for use outside the institution. Official transcripts are issued by the authorities and bear the seal of the registrar or another record-keeping official. Outside companies or institutions requesting official transcripts often want them to be provided in sealed envelopes.
What is Unofficial Transcript?
At first glance, there may not appear to be much difference between an official and an unofficial transcript, as both contain the same information about the student’s past academic record. Both have the same chronological list of courses, grades, and credits obtained by the student. However, unofficial transcripts are not intended for official use outside the issuing institution. They can be used internally for discussions with teachers and obtaining paid positions within the university but cannot be presented to outside organizations. Students often request unofficial transcripts from their institution’s admission office to keep as a personal record.
What is the difference between Official and Unofficial Transcripts?
• Official transcripts carry the signature of the registrar and the seal of the educational institution, while unofficial transcripts do not.
• Other colleges or prospective employers may request official transcripts during an interview.
• Official transcripts require payment of a small fee to the issuing authority, whereas unofficial transcripts are typically provided free of charge.
• Both types of transcripts contain the same information about the student’s past academic performance, but official transcripts have greater importance and significance for employment and studies at other universities.
