Sending Transcripts from India to US Universities: A Complete Guide to Navigating International Academic Credentials

Applying to universities in the United States from India is a transformative step toward academic and professional advancement. Whether you are pursuing undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, or professional studies, one of the most critical parts of the application process is submitting official academic transcripts. These transcripts serve as the formal academic record recognized by admissions offices and evaluation agencies in the U.S.

However, many Indian students find the transcript submission process confusing due to varying university requirements, international shipping standards, credential evaluation procedures, and the sheer uncertainty about how to get it all done right.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of sending transcripts from India to U.S. universities—from preparing your documents to choosing the right mode of delivery. It’s designed to reduce stress, prevent delays, and help you take one of the most important steps toward studying in the United States.

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What Are Academic Transcripts?

Academic transcripts are official documents issued by your school, college, or university that include:

• Your full name and enrollment number

• Program name (e.g., B.Tech, M.Sc., MBA)

• Duration of study

• Semester- or year-wise subjects

• Marks or grades obtained in each subject

• Overall percentage or cumulative GPA

• Degree completion status

These documents must be printed on university letterhead, authenticated by the Controller of Examinations or Registrar, and enclosed in sealed, stamped envelopes to be accepted as valid by U.S. universities.

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Why Are Transcripts Important for US University Admissions?

Transcripts are essential for:

• Academic evaluation: Universities use them to understand your educational background.

• Course mapping: Especially for graduate and professional programs, course content and credits are mapped against U.S. standards.

• Merit-based scholarship eligibility: Many universities require a transcript to assess academic merit for funding.

• Credential evaluation: If needed, transcripts are submitted to agencies like WES or ECE for degree equivalency reports.

Without transcripts, your application will be considered incomplete and disqualified from admission consideration.

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Types of Transcripts You May Need to Send

Depending on the institution and program you’re applying for, you might be required to submit:

• Official transcripts: Issued and sealed by your university

• Provisional transcripts: For students in their final semester/year

• Consolidated mark sheets: Contain all semester marks in one document

• Individual semester/year-wise mark sheets: Some universities require these separately

• Degree certificate: Proof of graduation

• Medium of Instruction (MOI) certificate (if applicable)

Check with the university’s admission office to confirm the specific requirements.

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Step-by-Step Guide to Sending Transcripts from India to the US

Let’s explore the full process of sending your academic transcripts from India to the United States.

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Step 1: Understand the University’s Transcript Policy

Start by reviewing the university’s official admission requirements. Some important details to confirm:

• Does the university require official physical transcripts or do they accept digital submissions?

• Should transcripts be sent directly by your university, or can you send them yourself in a sealed envelope?

• Is WES or another credential evaluation agency involved in the process?

Understanding these requirements early ensures you gather the correct documents the first time.

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Step 2: Request Transcripts from Your University

Contact the Controller of Examinations or the academic records department at your university. Here’s what you’ll usually need:

• Transcript application form (provided by the university)

• Photocopies of your marksheets and degree certificate

• Identity proof (passport, Aadhaar, etc.)

• Transcript processing fee (differs by university)

• Address of the U.S. university recipient

• WES Academic Records Request Form, if applicable

Universities usually take 10 to 30 working days to process and issue transcripts, depending on their internal systems and backlog.

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Step 3: Verify Format and Seal

Before dispatching, make sure your transcripts meet international standards:

• Printed on university letterhead

• Duly signed by the Controller or Registrar

• Include official seal or hologram (if applicable)

• Enclosed in a sealed envelope, with stamp and signature across the flap

• Marked clearly with the recipient’s address and your university’s return address

Do not open or tamper with the envelope after it is sealed by your university.

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Step 4: Choose the Right Mode of Dispatch

There are three main ways to send transcripts to U.S. universities:

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Option A: Direct Dispatch by Your University

Most universities in India offer the option of sending transcripts directly to U.S. institutions. This is the preferred method for universities that mandate official delivery.

You’ll need to:

• Provide the full U.S. address

• Include your student ID or application number

• Pay international courier fees (FedEx, DHL, Speed Post)

Many institutions use reliable courier services, and tracking is provided.

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Option B: Collect and Dispatch Yourself

If the university hands you the sealed transcript envelope:

• Ensure the seal is unbroken

• Do not open or tamper with the envelope

• Write the recipient address and WES/university reference number (if applicable)

• Send it via international courier with tracking

• Always retain the receipt and airway bill number

This method is viable when the university allows students to forward sealed transcripts themselves.

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Option C: Submit Digitally via Approved Platforms

Some Indian universities have adopted digital transmission channels like:

• DigiLocker (linked with Indian universities and recognized by WES)

• TrueCopy (for digital dispatch to foreign universities or credential agencies)

• National Academic Depository (NAD)

These platforms send encrypted, digitally verified academic records directly to recipients in the U.S.

Digital transmission is faster and more reliable, especially for students applying close to deadlines.

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Step 5: Confirmation and Tracking

Once your transcript has been sent:

• Use courier tracking to confirm delivery

• Follow up with the university or agency to ensure receipt

• Check your application portal for updates on document status

• Save all dispatch receipts and email confirmations as proof

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What If You’re Still in the Final Semester?

If you haven’t graduated yet, many U.S. universities allow:

• Provisional admission based on current academic records

• Submission of provisional transcripts and final year marksheets

• Final transcript to be submitted before enrollment or visa processing

Contact your institution for interim documentation if your final transcript isn’t yet available.

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Additional Tips to Avoid Mistakes

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Should You Use a Transcript Facilitation Service?

If you’re short on time, live abroad, or want to ensure everything is done correctly, using a professional transcript service is a smart option. These providers:

• Collect and review your academic records

• Submit your application to your university in India

• Handle payments and local formalities

• Collect sealed transcripts and send them to your U.S. institution or credential agency

• Provide updates and tracking throughout the process

This is especially useful for NRIs, full-time professionals, or applicants juggling multiple deadlines.

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Final Thoughts

Sending transcripts from India to U.S. universities is a crucial step in your academic journey. Doing it right ensures your application is complete, credible, and on time. While the process may seem bureaucratic, a well-prepared and strategic approach can save you weeks of delays or application rejections.

Make sure to start early, understand the university’s document requirements, and work closely with your academic institution to secure sealed, authentic transcripts. Whether you’re mailing physical copies or using digital portals, the key lies in following official protocols to the letter.

Your transcripts are more than just pieces of paper—they are proof of your hard work, dedication, and readiness for the next big step in life. Handle them with care, and they’ll open doors to a world of opportunity.

Our Services – FACTS Transcripts

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• Mark Sheet Transcripts
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• ECA (Educational Credentials Assessment)

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