It is not uncommon for someone to have a qualification certificate in a language other than English, especially for people who have received their education or professional training outside of English speaking countries. When it comes to applying for jobs or further studies in an English-speaking environment, the qualification certificate needs to be translated into English. But how to translate qualification certificates into English? This article will provide you with some useful information.

The Importance of Accuracy

The translation of qualification certificates is a serious matter and must be accurate. A small mistake can lead to a big problem, such as a rejection of the application or even legal consequences. Therefore, it is essential to find a qualified translator or translation agency with expertise in translating qualification certificates. The translator should be a native speaker of both the source language and English and have relevant knowledge in the field.

Types of Qualification Certificates

The translation approach may vary depending on the type of qualification certificate. Generally, qualification certificates fall into two categories: academic certificates and professional certificates. Academic certificates include high school diplomas, bachelors degrees, masters degrees, Ph.D. degrees, and so on. Professional certificates include certificates of licensure, certification, and accreditation, such as medical licenses, teaching licenses, law licenses, and engineering certifications. The format and content of these certificates may differ, and translators need to approach them accordingly.

Translation Method

There are essentially two methods for translating qualification certificates: literal translation and functional translation. In literal translation, the translator translates the text word by word without any cultural or linguistic adaptation. This method is useful when the main purpose is to have an accurate translation of the text. However, it may not be suitable for some types of certificates that require cultural or linguistic adaptation. In functional translation, the translator focuses on conveying the meaning of the text, not just the words. This method is more flexible and suitable for certificates that require cultural or linguistic adaptation.

Important Information in a Qualification Certificate

When translating a qualification certificate, the translator needs to pay attention to some important information, including the name of the certificate, the institution that issued the certificate, the date of issuance, the recipients name, the course of study or major, and the grades or scores. The translator should make sure that the translated version is consistent with the original version and does not omit or add any crucial information. In some cases, a translators note may be needed to explain some terms or expressions that are not translatable or unfamiliar to the reader.

Document Certification

To ensure that the translated qualification certificate is accepted by the recipient institution, document certification is often required. Document certification is a process in which the translation agency certifies that the translated document is accurate and complete and that the translator is qualified to do the translation. This process may involve notarization or an apostille, depending on the requirement of the recipient institution.

The Cost and Turnaround Time

The cost and turnaround time of translating qualification certificates may vary depending on various factors, such as the type of certificate, the length of the document, the language pair, and the urgency of the deadline. Generally, a certified translation of a qualification certificate ranges from $20 to $50 per page, and the turnaround time is around one to three business days. However, it is always recommended to get a quote from the translation agency before proceeding.

Conclusion

Translating a qualification certificate into English is not an easy task, but it is essential for those who want to pursue their careers or education in an English-speaking environment. Hiring a qualified translator or translation agency, knowing the types of certificates, choosing the appropriate method, paying attention to important information, getting document certification, and being aware of the cost and turnaround time are all essential steps in translating qualification certificates into English.