What Is a Transcript?
A transcript is the official academic record of a student, issued by the school, college or university. It lists the courses you took, the grades you received, the credits you earned and your overall results, such as your GPA, and it shows any degrees conferred. Employers, graduate programs, scholarship bodies and other institutions ask for transcripts to verify your education.
What a transcript shows
- Student details: name, ID and sometimes date of birth.
- Courses and terms: a list by term with course codes and titles.
- Grades and credits: letter grades or marks, credit hours and grade points.
- GPA: term and cumulative.
- Academic standing: honors, probation or suspension, depending on the institution.
- Transfer credit: courses accepted from other institutions.
- Degrees: program, major, honors and dates of conferral.
- Grading key: an explanation of the scale and notations.
Official versus unofficial
An official transcript is issued directly by the registrar, in a sealed envelope or through a secure electronic delivery service, and is accepted for admission, hiring and licensing. An unofficial transcript is a copy you can view or download in your student portal, useful for advising and your own records but not accepted for formal purposes.
How to get one
Most colleges use the registrar's office or a third-party service. You log in, choose the recipient, pay any fee and confirm your identity. Allow time, especially at the ends of terms when requests peak. Some institutions require a clear account, meaning no unpaid fees or holds.
Transcripts from other countries
International applicants often need transcripts translated and evaluated, and may be asked to have them sent directly or to provide certified copies. Our entries on credential evaluation and apostille explain related steps. Some countries issue a diploma supplement or a record such as HEAR in addition.
Tips
- Order early for deadlines.
- Check recipient requirements: electronic, sealed paper or both.
- Review your record for errors, and ask the registrar to correct them.
- Keep copies of unofficial transcripts for your own use.
Related terms
See registrar, grade point, registration hold, credential evaluation and diploma supplement.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between an official and unofficial transcript?
An official transcript is issued directly by the school, often sealed or sent electronically to a recipient. An unofficial one is a copy you can view or print yourself, and is not accepted for formal purposes.
How long does it take to get a transcript?
Electronic transcripts can be delivered within a day or two, and paper ones take longer. Processing times vary, and holds on your account can delay it.
What if I owe money to the school?
Many schools withhold transcripts if there is an outstanding balance or hold. Clear it with the relevant office first.