“Global education should empower, not confuse. At Atlas Credential Evaluations, we turn transcripts into opportunity.”
If you’re applying to a U.S. university, seeking professional licensure, or planning to work in the United States, you’ll likely need both translation and credential evaluation services. Many people confuse these terms, but they serve very different purposes. Understanding the difference can help you avoid delays and ensure your documents meet U.S. requirements.
At Atlas Credential Evaluations, we make this process simple, transparent, and affordable. Here’s everything you need to know about how it works, and how we can help you succeed.
What Is Translation?
Translation is the word-for-word conversion of your academic documents from one language into English.
- Who performs it? Certified translators proficient in both languages, often licensed through professional exams.
- Why is it required? U.S. institutions cannot review your credentials unless they are in English.
Quick Tip: Always use certified translators to ensure accuracy and acceptance.
What Is Credential Evaluation?
Credential evaluation is an analysis of your foreign education or licensure to determine its U.S. equivalent.
- Who performs it? Experts in global education systems, typically at credential evaluation agencies or universities.
- Why is it required? Schools, employers, and licensing boards need to understand your academic level and verify compliance with U.S. standards.
How Do They Work Together?
Translation and evaluation are different but equally important steps in your academic or professional journey. If your documents are not in English, you’ll need both services:
- Translation: Converts your documents into English.
- Evaluation: Reviews those documents and issues a report showing U.S. equivalency.
Why Both Are Essential: Translation makes your documents readable, while evaluation makes them meaningful in the U.S. context.
Common Misconceptions
- My documents are translated, so I’m done. Not true, you still need an evaluation.
- Evaluation includes translation. Usually not, they are separate services.
Why It Matters
Submitting only a translation without an evaluation, or vice versa, can lead to application delays or rejections. Always confirm your institution’s requirements and use recognized agencies.
Trusted Resources
At Atlas Credential Evaluations, we deliver evaluations prepared by NACES senior credential specialists with expertise in global education systems and certified translations completed by linguists accredited by the American Translators Association (ATA).
Our reports are thorough, accurate, and widely accepted by U.S. institutions, employers, and licensing boards.
FAQs
Do I need both translation and evaluation? Yes, if your documents are not in English.
Can I use any translator? Use certified translators to avoid rejection.
How long does the process take? Atlas offers standard (5 business days) and rush (2 business days) services.
Conclusion
Translation and evaluation are different but equally important steps in your academic or professional journey. At Atlas Evaluations, we simplify the process so you can focus on your goals.
Ready to start your translation and/or evaluation?
Click here to begin your application today.