Submitting documents for credential evaluation is a critical step for individuals seeking to study, work, or immigrate to countries where foreign educational qualifications must be assessed for equivalency. These evaluations form the basis for decisions regarding admissions, employment eligibility, professional licensure, or immigration approval. As such, the integrity of the process relies heavily on the authenticity of the academic documents submitted.
Unfortunately, some individuals may be tempted to submit false, altered, or fabricated documents in hopes of fast-tracking their evaluation or appearing more qualified. While the motivations may vary—from pressure to meet deadlines to desperation for immigration approval—the consequences of submitting false documents are severe, far-reaching, and often irreversible. This blog offers a comprehensive understanding of what happens if you submit false documents, the investigative process, potential legal repercussions, and the long-term damage to your reputation and career.
Understanding What Constitutes a False Document
A document is considered false if it is:
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Forged or fabricated (created from scratch with false information).
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Altered from its original state (changing grades, names, dates, or signatures).
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Falsely issued by non-recognized institutions (diploma mills).
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Misrepresented (e.g., claiming a degree you never earned).
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Submitted under false identity (using another person’s academic records).
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Supported by a fraudulent translation or fake authentication stamp.
Any deliberate or accidental submission of such documents falls under misconduct or fraud and is treated with utmost seriousness by evaluation agencies and related authorities.
The Verification Process: How False Documents Are Detected
Credential evaluation agencies use rigorous verification processes to assess the authenticity of submitted academic records. These include:
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Direct institution verification: Contacting the issuing college or university to confirm the details.
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Database cross-referencing: Comparing information against national academic databases and previous records.
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Authentication seals and formats: Examining official stamps, seals, and institutional letterhead formats.
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Digital verifications: Using secure portals or certified electronic transmission systems for document verification.
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Translation scrutiny: Checking the validity of translated documents and whether certified translators were used.
Any discrepancies or signs of tampering typically trigger a deeper investigation, possibly involving legal authorities or academic boards.
Consequences of Submitting False Documents
1. Immediate Disqualification of Application
If the agency determines that the documents submitted are false or altered, the application is immediately disqualified. No report will be issued, and all fees paid are non-refundable.
2. Permanent Ban from the Agency
Many credential evaluation agencies maintain a strict policy of banning individuals who engage in document fraud. This ban can be permanent or for a fixed term (e.g., five to ten years), during which no further applications from the individual are accepted.
3. Blacklisting and Reporting to Authorities
Cases of document fraud are often reported to:
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Immigration authorities (in the case of visa-related evaluations).
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Educational institutions (if the individual has applied for admission).
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Licensing or regulatory bodies (for those applying for professional certifications).
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Law enforcement agencies in cases of serious fraud.
Being blacklisted by one agency may also result in rejection from others, especially those that share verification databases or follow mutual reporting protocols.
4. Legal Ramifications
Submitting false documents can amount to criminal fraud in many jurisdictions. Potential legal consequences include:
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Fines
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Deportation (for immigration-related applications)
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Denial of entry into a country
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Criminal charges that could result in imprisonment
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Future visa ineligibility or restrictions
Legal action can extend beyond the evaluation agency and may be pursued by government departments, educational regulators, or professional organizations.
5. Damage to Academic and Professional Reputation
Even if no formal legal action is taken, being caught submitting fraudulent documents can irreparably damage your credibility. You may be barred from future educational opportunities, lose job offers, or be disqualified from professional licensing programs.
Employers, universities, and professional bodies often take ethics seriously, and having a record of misconduct or dishonesty can close doors permanently.
Examples of Common Document Fraud and Their Impacts
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Falsifying Marksheets: Even minor alterations in grades can lead to complete rejection of the application and notification to academic bodies.
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Submitting Fake Degrees: Degree certificates from unrecognized institutions or diploma mills are often discovered through standard vetting processes and lead to immediate bans.
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Forged Translations: Altering translations to make qualifications seem more favorable may appear minor but are treated as serious misconduct.
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Claiming Degrees Not Earned: If you claim to have completed a course or program you did not actually finish, this will likely be uncovered during transcript verification.
Ethical and Responsible Alternatives
Instead of submitting false documents, consider the following legitimate options:
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Contact Your Institution for Official Records: Even if your institution has closed, there may be a governing body or archived records you can access.
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Include Explanatory Letters: If documents are genuinely unavailable due to reasons beyond your control (e.g., natural disasters, war, political unrest), include a formal explanation and supporting evidence.
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Work with a Reputable Documentation Service: Some third-party services specialize in retrieving academic records from Indian and international universities. They ensure your documents are authentic and submitted through the correct channels.
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Request a Partial Evaluation: If some documents are missing but others are verifiable, some agencies may offer a partial or general evaluation based on what is available.
How to Rebuild Trust If You’ve Made a Mistake
If you’ve already submitted questionable documents and wish to correct your mistake, act quickly and transparently:
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Withdraw your application voluntarily and explain your situation.
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Submit a corrected set of documents along with an official apology.
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Be honest about the circumstances and demonstrate a willingness to comply with the correct procedures.
While not all agencies will accept resubmissions, showing remorse and honesty may help mitigate the damage and rebuild your credibility over time.
