Summary
Notarized Translations Are Mandatory: University of the People (UoPeople) requires official, notarized English translations of all foreign-language diplomas and transcripts. Self-translated documents are never accepted and are a common reason for rejection.
Key Documents & Quality: You must submit a high-quality color scan of both the original document (diploma or transcript showing graduation) and its complete, word-for-word translation.
Avoid Common Rejection Pitfalls: The most frequent reasons for rejection include missing notarization, poor-quality scans, inconsistent personal details, and using unaccredited translation services.
Affordable & Fast Solution: For students on a tight budget and deadline, Bluente's certified translation service offers university-accepted documents from just $25 per page with a 24-hour turnaround.
You've been accepted to University of the People (UoPeople) and you're excited to start your educational journey. Then reality hits: your high school diploma and transcripts are in your native language, and you need certified translations. The anxiety sets in—will your documents be rejected? How much will translations cost? What if you miss the deadline?
As one frustrated student shared on Reddit, "the translation for the HS diploma alone cost me 10-11 hours of work so I don't want to pay only for it to be rejected." Another worried, "my budget for the month is gone" after paying for translation services.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of getting your foreign documents properly translated and accepted by UoPeople, helping you avoid costly rejections and unnecessary stress.
Why Certified Translations are Non-Negotiable for UoPeople
When it comes to document translations for UoPeople admissions, there's no room for shortcuts. According to the official UoPeople academic catalog, "All diplomas and transcripts in a foreign language must be accompanied by a notarized translation into English for the English programs."
But what exactly is a "notarized translation"? It's a certified translation that has been signed and sealed by a Notary Public, adding an official verification layer attesting to the document's accuracy.
The most important rule to remember: you cannot translate your own documents. This is a common mistake that leads to immediate rejection. One UoPeople student learned this the hard way: "my transcript was translated by a translator and the diploma was translated by me but they didn't accept the diploma until I got it translated by a translator."
Even if you're fluent in English and your native language, self-translations will not be accepted. This policy aligns with standard practices at universities worldwide, including Arizona State University, which explicitly states, "Students cannot translate their own documents."
Understanding UoPeople's Specific Document Requirements
Many prospective students wonder, "Would just the high school diploma be enough?" According to UoPeople's requirements, you need "Official diploma or transcript showing graduation" to prove high school completion.
Let's break down what you need to know about each document:
High School Diploma Translation Requirements:
Must be a complete and literal translation of the original
Must include the official title of the degree
Must include the full name of the institution
Must include all dates exactly as they appear on the original
Transcript Translation Requirements:
Must be highly detailed, capturing all coursework
All grades must be accurately translated
All academic notations must be included
Must be a "literal and complete version of the original"
In addition to the translation, you must submit a "Color scan or notary certified photocopy" of your original document. Poor quality, illegible scans are among the most common reasons for rejection.
For country-specific requirements, UoPeople provides an official list of acceptable high school completion equivalents by country. Be sure to consult this list to ensure your specific document meets their standards.
The Step-by-Step Certified Translation and Submission Process
Follow this process carefully to ensure your documents are properly translated and accepted:
Step 1: Gather Your Original Documents
Locate your official high school diploma or transcript that proves graduation. Make sure these are the original, official documents issued by your educational institution.
Step 2: Find an Acceptable Translation Service
UoPeople requires translations from "an official translation service that can provide notarized translations." Acceptable services typically include:
Professional online translation services that specialize in certified documents
University language departments
Government officials, Ministry of Education, Consulate, or Embassy
Many UoPeople students have reported success with online services that provide fast, certified translations. For example, services like Bluente offer certified translations for academic documents from $25 per page with a 24-hour turnaround, which is ideal for students on a deadline.
Step 3: Order the Notarized Translation
Upload high-quality scans of your original documents to your chosen service
Specifically request a notarized English translation
Clarify that these are for submission to a US university
Step 4: Review the Translation Carefully
Before submitting to UoPeople, meticulously check the translation for:
Accuracy of your name and personal details
Correct dates (especially graduation date)
School name spelled correctly
Proper notary seal/stamp and certification statement
One student on Reddit noted that an error in their date of birth on a previous translation caused significant additional complications, requiring them to provide notarized translations of official IDs as well.
Step 5: Submit All Documents to UoPeople
Upload both the color scan of your original document AND the complete notarized translation
Include your application reference number if you have one
Submit before the deadline for your intended term
Finding Affordable Translation Services & Cost-Saving Strategies
Translation costs can be a significant burden when you're already budgeting for education. As one student lamented, "my budget for the month is gone" after paying for translation services.
Here's how to find quality translations without breaking the bank:
What to Look For in a Translation Service:
Academic document specialization: Choose services experienced with educational credentials
Clear certification process: Ensure they provide properly notarized translations
Transparent pricing: Look for upfront costs with no hidden fees
Positive student reviews: Services recommended by other UoPeople students
Cost-Saving Strategies:
Compare Online Services:
Bluente offers certified translations accepted by universities for a flat rate of $25/page, with 24-hour delivery.
Other services like Gengo or Mota Word offer different pricing models, such as per-word rates.
Check Local Resources:
Contact local community colleges or universities; they may offer translation services at reduced rates for prospective students
Check with language departments at nearby universities for student translators (supervised by professors)
Consult Your Embassy/Consulate:
Your country's embassy or consulate may offer official translation services at standardized costs
They often have experience with educational document translations
Request Multiple Quotes:
Request quotes from multiple services to compare rates and turnaround times before committing.
Top Reasons for Document Rejection & How to Avoid Them
Understanding why documents get rejected can help you avoid costly mistakes and delays in your enrollment process for UNIV 1101 or CS 1101 courses. Here are the most common reasons UoPeople rejects foreign document submissions:
Missing Notarized Translation
Submitting non-English documents without the required notarized translation
Providing translations without proper notary certification
Self-Translated Documents
Attempting to translate your own documents, even if you're fluent in both languages
Using free online translation tools like Google Translate
Inaccurate or Inconsistent Information
Name on documents doesn't match name on application form
Inconsistent spelling of name across documents
Incorrect dates or other critical information
Poor Quality Scans
Blurry, illegible, or incomplete document scans
Black and white scans when color is required
Missing pages or partially visible content
Incomplete Submission
Failing to submit both the original language document and the translation
Missing required stamps, seals, or signatures on the original documents
Using Unauthorized Translation Services
Relying on translation from a site that doesn't provide proper certification
Using services without experience in academic document translation
Your Ultimate Pre-Submission Checklist
Before submitting your documents to UoPeople, use this checklist to ensure everything is in order:
I have a high-quality color scan or notary-certified photocopy of my original High School Diploma or Transcript
I have a complete, literal, and notarized English translation performed by a professional, third-party service
My name, date of birth, and all other details on the translation EXACTLY match my original document and my UoPeople application
I am submitting BOTH the original language document and the translated document together in my application portal
I have double-checked the current submission deadline on the official UoPeople admissions calendar
I have the official admissions email address (admissions@uopeople.edu) saved in case of any questions or issues
Next Steps and Final Advice
The document submission process can be stressful, especially when you're concerned about enrollment requirements and the possibility of having to drop classes if your documents aren't accepted in time. Here's some final advice to help you navigate this process:
Start Early
Begin the translation process as soon as possible. Quality translations take time, and rushing the process increases the risk of errors. As one student worried, "if I miss it does it mean I'm out?" While UoPeople does have deadlines, starting early gives you buffer time to address any issues.
Communicate Proactively
If you anticipate delays in getting your documents translated and submitted, contact the admissions office immediately. They may be able to offer guidance or temporary accommodations while you complete the process.
Keep All Receipts and Correspondence
Maintain records of all translation services, including receipts and communication. If questions arise about the authenticity of your translations, this documentation can be valuable.
Consider Alternatives Only When Advised
Some students wonder about test alternatives to document submission, but as one student noted, "I'd just rather take that test but my advisor doesn't recommend it." Trust your advisor's guidance on this matter—they understand UoPeople's requirements and processes.
Budget Accordingly
Factor translation costs into your overall education budget. While it may seem expensive initially, proper document translation is an investment in your educational future that helps avoid costly rejections and resubmissions.
For any specific concerns or unique situations not covered in this guide, contact the UoPeople Admissions Office directly at admissions@uopeople.edu. With proper preparation and attention to detail, you can successfully navigate the document submission process and begin your academic journey at UoPeople.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a notarized translation and why does UoPeople require it?
A notarized translation is a certified translation that includes an additional verification step from a Notary Public, who confirms the translator's identity and the authenticity of their signature. UoPeople requires this to ensure that translated academic documents are official, accurate, and secure from tampering, which upholds the integrity of their admissions process.
Can I translate my own high school diploma for UoPeople?
No, you cannot translate your own documents for your UoPeople application, even if you are fluent in both languages. University policy strictly requires that all translations be performed by a professional, impartial third-party to ensure accuracy and prevent any conflict of interest. Submitting a self-translated document is a common reason for immediate rejection.
How much does a certified translation for UoPeople typically cost?
The cost for a certified translation generally ranges from $25 to $50 per page. Many reputable online services offer flat-rate pricing for standard academic documents like diplomas and transcripts. For example, a service like Bluente provides certified translations accepted by universities for a flat rate of $25 per page, which is a budget-friendly option for students.
Do I need to translate both my diploma and my transcripts?
You need to provide and translate the official document that serves as proof of high school completion in your country. This can be either your official diploma or your final transcript that explicitly states you have graduated. If your transcript shows your graduation date and all final grades, it is often sufficient. Always check UoPeople's country-specific requirements list to be sure.
How long does it take to get a certified translation?
Most professional online translation services can deliver a certified translation within 24 to 48 hours. Many services catering to students offer an expedited 24-hour turnaround for standard one-page documents. It is always best to start this process as early as possible to avoid missing submission deadlines.
What should I do if my translated documents are rejected by UoPeople?
If your documents are rejected, first, carefully read the reason provided by the UoPeople admissions office. Common issues include missing notarization, poor scan quality, or using an unapproved translator. You must then correct the specific issue—for instance, by obtaining a new, properly notarized translation—and resubmit all required documents through the application portal.