Translation Requirements for a WES Credential Evaluation
In most cases, translation is not necessary for a WES credential evaluation. However, if you have been requested to provide translated documents, you might be an exception.
Keep reading to learn more about document translation requirements for a WES credential evaluation.
Why does WES require translated documents?
Translations support required documents and facilitate the evaluation process, ensuring the accuracy of our reports.
Many applicants ask if WES will translate their documents; however, we do not currently provide this service. Therefore, you are responsible for providing any translations necessary to process your application.
When does WES need translations?
For credential evaluations processed in the United States, WES requires translations of documents issued in languages other than English.
For credential evaluations processed in Canada, WES requires English- or French-language translations of documents issued in languages other than English or French.
To confirm whether you need to provide translations of your document, refer to your list of required documents which can be accessed in your WES account.
WES cannot accept English- or French-language versions of the documents in place of a translation. We require an independently translated version of the original documentation.
Why do translators need official documents?
Unofficial documents or student copies might not correspond exactly to the official versions, so applicants should ensure that their translator has access to official documents for translation.
We recommend asking your institution to provide two sets of documents: one to send to WES and another to send to the translation service.
What other translation requirements should I know about?
WES requires translations to be:
- Exact and word-for-word. All text in the original language must be accurately translated into English or French.
- Clear and legible. Our evaluators need to read all translated course titles and grades, as well as information about the institution and the applicant.
- Completed by a professional translator. This person might be affiliated with a university, certified translation agency, or any other professional translation service.
WES cannot accept the following:
- Handwritten translations
- Translations of photocopies
- Translations completed by applicants
- Incomplete translations
- Original translations
How do I send WES my translated documents?
Unlike our requirements for most official documents, translations do not need to be sent to WES in a sealed envelope. In fact, applicants can upload document translations from their WES account.
Once you log in, go to your Account Timeline and scroll to the Upload Your Documents section; then click the Upload Document button to begin. Please note the following requirements before uploading your documents:
- Upload only PDF or JPEG files.
- The maximum file size is 10 MB.
- Do not password-protect the PDF.
- Take a moment to ensure that you uploaded the correct document and that it is a clear, high-quality image.
- Be sure to preview all your documents before clicking the Submit button. Once you submit your documents, you cannot delete them.
For more information about our required documents and credential evaluation process, please visit our Help Center (U.S. / Canada).
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