How to Get Your Diploma Translated for UK University Applications

If you’re an international student planning to study in the UK, your application will almost certainly require your academic diploma and transcripts to be professionally translated into English. However, not just any translation will do—UK universities typically demand certified translations that meet specific legal and academic standards. This article will walk you through how to get your diploma translated for UK university applications, explain what a certified translation includes, and show you how to avoid common pitfalls that could delay or invalidate your submission.  

Why UK Universities Require Certified Diploma Translations

UK higher education institutions are globally respected for their academic rigour—and that extends to their admissions processes.

• Academic Recognition: UK admissions teams need clear, formal validation of international qualifications. They must assess whether your diploma is equivalent to a British degree, A-level, or other credential.

• Language Accuracy: Translations must preserve the original academic context—course names, grades, credits—without distortion.

• Fraud Prevention: Using trusted certified translation services helps universities reduce the risk of falsified credentials.

Even if your university “accepts documents in English,” that doesn’t mean you can translate them. Translations must be certified and often come with a signed Certificate of Accuracy.

What Does a Certified Diploma Translation Include?

A proper academic translation for UK admissions includes:

• The full original document (often scanned in)

• A faithful English version of each element

• A Certificate of Accuracy signed by the translator

• Translator’s credentials and contact details

Services like CTS provide diploma translation that meet strict criteria from UK NARIC, universities, and government bodies like UKVI.  

Step-by-Step: Getting Your Diploma Translated

Here’s a structured process to ensure your translation meets requirements:

1. Choose a Qualified Translator

Use an agency that is a member of the Association of Translation Companies (ATC) or CIOL. Verify they have experience with academic documents. CTS, for example, provides specialised academic translation tailored for university submissions.  

2. Submit Clear Scans of Your Diploma and Transcript

Ensure every seal, grade, and stamp is legible. Include annex pages, academic year summaries, or grading scales.  

3. Confirm Formatting and Accuracy

The translator may reach out to confirm abbreviations or subject names. This is especially true for complex fields like medicine or engineering.  

4. Receive the Certified Translation and Statement

Your final documents will come with a PDF copy, the certificate, and optionally a printed version by post.  

When and Where to Submit Translated Diplomas

• UCAS Deadlines: Most UK undergraduate programs have deadlines in January. Postgraduate programs vary.

• University Admissions Teams: Send documents directly or upload via the university portal.

• Accepted Formats: Some universities accept digital PDFs. Others may request hard copies sent by mail.

If applying to multiple universities, check if they have individual translation policies.  

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using DIY or Free Translation Tools These lack credibility and accuracy. Admissions teams will reject them.

• Translating Without Certification Even a perfect translation will be invalid without the translator’s certificate and credentials.

• Submitting Partial Documents Forgetting transcript annexes, grading scales, or back pages is a common oversight.
• Confusing Certified with Sworn Translation The UK doesn't use "sworn" translators. A certified UK translation is sufficient. (More on that in our blog on sworn translations vs certified).

Do UK Universities Accept Translations from Anywhere?

No. Most UK universities prefer translators who are:

• Based in the UK

• Members of professional bodies like ATC or CIOL

• Familiar with UKVI translation rules and education systems

CTS’s diploma translations have been accepted by top UK universities and processed in line with UK NARIC expectations. Learn more about accepted qualifications.  

Do I Need My Diploma Apostilled?

Generally, apostilles are not required just for university admissions. But they may be necessary if:

• The university asks for document legalisation

• You’re applying for a Tier 4 student visa and need to verify documents with UKVI

• You plan to use the document later for employment or immigration

See our notarised & apostille translation services if your case involves legal documentation.  

Timeline and Pricing

Here’s what to expect:

• Turnaround Time: Most diploma translations take 2–3 business days. Express services are available in 24 hours for tight deadlines.

• Costs: Certified diploma translation starts at around £45–£60 depending on word count and language pair. Complex transcripts may cost more.
• Languages: CTS offers translations into and from over 140 languages including Spanish, French, German, Chinese, Arabic, and Russian. Check our languages page for a full list.

Additional Documents You May Need to Translate

When applying, you might also need to provide certified translations of:

• Birth certificate (for identity verification) – see birth certificate translation

• Police clearance certificate – see police certificate translation

• Reference letters
• Statement of purpose (if requested in your local language)

Why Use CTS for Diploma Translations?

CTS is one of the UK’s most trusted providers of certified document translations, known for:

• University-approved translations – Accepted by UK, EU, and North American universities

• Professional memberships – ATC registered

• Fast turnaround and accuracy

• Over 1,000 five-star reviews

Whether you’re applying to a UK undergraduate program or postgraduate research position, we’ve helped thousands of students just like you translate their diplomas and transcripts successfully.  

In Summary

Getting your diploma translated for UK university applications is a vital step toward your academic future. Ensure you choose a professional, certified provider that understands university requirements and handles everything from formatting to submission-friendly delivery. At CTS, our team of academic translation experts is ready to help you move forward with confidence.