Apostille Your Degree: Why It’s Important and How to Do It Right
In today’s fast-paced professional and academic world, having verified and authentic documentation is crucial. One such essential document is your degree certificate—whether it’s for a job application, further education, or professional licensing, there are times when you may need to Apostille Your Degree.
But what does it mean to apostille your degree? Why is it necessary? And how do you ensure the process is done accurately and efficiently? This in-depth guide walks you through everything you need to know about apostilling your degree and how Rais Apostille Services can make the process smooth and reliable.
What Does It Mean to Apostille Your Degree?
An apostille is an official certificate that authenticates the origin of a public document—such as your degree certificate—and verifies the authority of the official who signed it. This certification confirms that your degree is genuine, legally issued, and recognized by official bodies.
The apostille is attached to your original document or its certified copy and confirms that the document is legally valid.
Why Would You Need to Apostille Your Degree?
There are several scenarios where apostilling your degree may be necessary:
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Higher education admission
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Employment verification
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Professional licensing
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Credential evaluation
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Government documentation requirements
Having an apostille on your degree ensures that the document is officially recognized and trusted wherever it is required for formal use.
Which Types of Degree Certificates Can Be Apostilled?
You can apostille most officially issued degree certificates, including:
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Bachelor’s degrees
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Master’s degrees
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Doctoral degrees (Ph.D.)
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Associate degrees
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Postgraduate diplomas
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Professional certifications issued by universities or colleges
Before initiating the apostille process, make sure your degree certificate is original or a certified true copy issued by the academic institution.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apostille Your Degree
Step 1: Obtain a Certified Degree Certificate
Ensure you have an original or official certified copy of your degree. This may be issued directly from your college or university’s registrar’s office. It must bear a recognizable seal and authorized signature.
Step 2: Verify the Document
Your degree must be verified as an official public document by the issuing authority or notarized if required. Some degree certificates may require a notarial attestation to confirm their authenticity before proceeding to the next step.
Step 3: Submit to the Competent Authority for Apostille
Once your degree is verified, it is submitted to the designated competent authority—typically the state or central office responsible for issuing apostilles. The authority reviews the credentials of the document and affixes an apostille certificate, confirming its legitimacy.
Step 4: Receive the Apostilled Degree
After processing, your degree will have an apostille attached to it, making it a legally authenticated and verified document ready for formal use.
How Long Does It Take to Apostille a Degree?
Processing times vary depending on the specific authority handling the request, the state in which the degree was issued, and whether the service is expedited. On average, it may take 7 to 20 business days, although express services can speed this up considerably.
Common Challenges in Apostilling Degree Certificates
1. Incorrect Format
Only properly issued or certified degrees can be apostilled. Unofficial or scanned copies are not eligible.
2. Missing Notarization
Some documents may need to be notarized before submission. Failure to do so can delay the process.
3. State-Specific Requirements
Different states may have unique rules and required paperwork for apostille processing.
4. Inaccurate Submission
Errors in the application form, missing attachments, or incorrect fees can lead to rejections or delays.
These challenges can often be avoided by using professional document handling services like Rais Apostille Services.
How Rais Apostille Services Can Help You Apostille Your Degree
Navigating the apostille process for a degree can be confusing and time-consuming, especially with varying rules depending on the issuing institution and jurisdiction.
At Rais Apostille Services, we provide:
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Document Review & Verification: We assess your degree to ensure it meets all apostille requirements.
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End-to-End Handling: From notarization (if needed) to submission and tracking, we manage the entire process.
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Timely Processing: We expedite the process and keep you informed at every stage.
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Secure Delivery: Your apostilled degree is returned to you safely and securely.
Our team has the knowledge, experience, and network to help you apostille your degree quickly and efficiently.
What to Expect When Working with Rais Apostille Services
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Submit Your Degree Details
Share a copy or details of your degree certificate through our secure platform. -
We Handle Verification and Notarization
If needed, we’ll assist in notarizing or verifying your degree. -
We Manage Apostille Processing
Our team submits your document to the appropriate authority and monitors its status. -
Receive Apostilled Degree
Once complete, your apostilled degree will be shipped to your provided address.
No complicated paperwork. No confusing instructions. Just fast, secure, and professional service.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I apostille a copy of my degree?
Yes, but only if it is a certified true copy issued or verified by the original educational institution or notarized by a registered notary.
2. Does my degree need to be translated?
If your degree is not in English, a certified translation may be required before notarization or apostille. However, translations themselves are not apostilled—only the original document is.
3. Can Rais Apostille Services help if I’m not sure where to start?
Absolutely! Contact us and we’ll guide you through the document requirements, verification, and all necessary steps for apostille.
4. Is notarization always required before an apostille?
Not always. Whether your degree needs to be notarized depends on the policies of the issuing authority. Our team can assess your document and advise accordingly.
5. How long is an apostille valid?
Once issued, an apostille does not expire. However, the validity of your degree may depend on the institution or organization requesting the document.
6. What if my degree has a name mismatch?
If the name on your degree doesn’t match your identification (e.g., due to marriage or legal name change), you may need to provide supporting documents like an affidavit or name change certificate.
Final Thoughts
Apostilling your degree is a crucial step when you need official academic recognition in any formal setting. Whether it’s for work, school, or government processing, your degree certificate must be authentic and verifiable.
Instead of navigating complex procedures on your own, trust Rais Apostille Services to simplify and speed up the process. We help you ensure your degree is properly verified, handled with care, and returned with an official apostille—saving you time, stress, and unnecessary delays.
