If you want to study in Europe, your documents must be clear, complete, and easy to verify. Most universities ask for a transcript, a diploma or diploma certificate, and sometimes an apostille or legalisation.
The exact list depends on the country and programme, so always check the university's admissions page first. If you are missing one document, ask early - some replacements take time.
What universities usually ask for
Admissions offices usually want proof of your education and your grades. They may also ask for language proof and identity documents.
- Transcript - a list of subjects, grades, and credits or hours
- Diploma or certificate - proof that you finished your school or degree
- Translated copies - if the original is not in the language the university asks for
- Passport or national ID - for identification
- Proof of name change - if your name on the documents is different from your passport
Some universities want copies first and originals later. Others want certified copies from the start. Follow the checklist on the programme page.
Transcript: what it should show
A transcript is often one of the most important documents. It shows what you studied and how well you did.
- Your full name, as written on your official records
- Course names or subjects
- Grades, marks, or GPA
- Credit value, hours, or study load
- Official stamp, signature, or digital verification, if your school uses it
If your school uses a different grading system, do not change the numbers yourself. Send the official version and, if needed, a grading explanation from your school or university. Some admissions teams know many systems, but they may still ask for a conversion guide from the issuing institution.
Diploma and diploma supplement
Your diploma shows that you completed your programme. In some countries, universities also use a diploma supplement. This gives extra detail about your studies.
- Secondary school diploma or certificate for bachelor applications
- Bachelor diploma for master applications
- Master diploma for doctoral or advanced study applications
- Diploma supplement, if your country or school issues one
Many universities accept a provisional certificate if your final diploma is not ready yet. This is common, but not automatic. Check whether the university accepts a temporary document and what it must say.
Apostille and legalisation
An apostille is an official form of authentication used between many countries that are part of the Hague Apostille Convention. If your country is not part of the convention, you may need legalisation instead. The exact process depends on the country that issued the document and the country where you will study.
Do not guess. Check the national immigration authority, your foreign ministry, or the university's admissions page. These sources usually explain whether you need an apostille, consular legalisation, or no extra stamp at all.
- Apostille - often used for public documents between Hague Convention countries
- Legalisation - a different process used when apostille is not available
- Notarised copy - sometimes needed, but not a replacement for apostille
Important point: the apostille is usually placed on the original document or on a certified copy, depending on local rules. Follow the instructions from the authority that issues the document.
Translations and certified copies
If your documents are not in the required language, you may need a sworn, certified, or official translation. The exact type of translation depends on the country and university.
- Use a translator accepted by the university or by the receiving country
- Keep the original text visible in the translation package
- Check whether the translation must be stapled to the original
- Ask if the university accepts scans before sending paper copies
Do not translate names, degree titles, or grades in a way that changes meaning. If your school or university provides an English version, use that first.
How to prepare your documents well
Good document preparation saves time. Start with the programme page, then build your file step by step.
- Make a checklist from the admissions instructions
- Scan documents in good light, at high quality
- Use clear file names, such as transcript, diploma, and passport
- Keep both the original and a copy in a safe place
- Check expiry dates on passports and identity cards
- Ask your school early if you need duplicate documents
If anything is missing, contact the admissions office before the deadline. Many universities can tell you what they accept while you wait for the final paper, but they cannot always make exceptions.
Common questions
Do I need original documents or scans?
It depends on the university. Many schools start with scans, then ask for originals or certified copies later. Always check the programme page and the admissions portal.
Can I apply if my final diploma is not ready yet?
Often yes, if the university accepts a provisional certificate or a statement of completion. This is common, but not guaranteed. Read the admissions rules carefully and ask the university if the wording is not clear.
Where do I check if I need an apostille?
Check the university's admissions page first, then the national immigration authority or foreign ministry in the country that issued your documents. Those sources give the current rule for your situation.
How Eduuro helps
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Rules, fees and deadlines change. Check the university's own admissions page and the official immigration site of the country before you act on anything here.