Academic Transcript Apostille for United States

Korean academic transcripts apostilled for the United States are required for WES and NACES credential evaluations, graduate school applications, professional licensing, and employment verification. WES typically requires transcripts sent directly from the Korean institution, but apostilled transcripts may be needed for some evaluation types or when applying independently.

How to apostille a Korean academic transcript for United States

1Request an official sealed transcript from the Korean university registrar
2For apostille: submit to MOFA — standard 3–5 business days, express 1–2 business days
3Arrange a certified English translation if apostilling independently
4Submit to WES, the graduate school, or licensing authority per their specific instructions

Requirements for United States

Official sealed transcript from the Korean university registrar — unofficial or student-copy transcripts cannot be apostilled
MOFA apostille required if submitting independently (not via institution-direct send)
WES and most NACES members prefer or require institution-direct send for transcripts
Certified English translation required alongside the Korean transcript for non-institution-direct submissions
Some US state professional licensing boards require apostilled transcripts with certified translations

What to look for in a specialist

Clear guidance on WES institution-direct versus apostille-required scenarios for your Korean institution

Knowledge of US state licensing board (NCLEX, USMLE, state bar) transcript apostille requirements

Certified English translation capacity for full transcripts

Experience handling transcripts from a wide range of Korean universities and graduate programs

Frequently Asked Questions

Does WES require apostilled Korean transcripts or institution-direct submissions?

WES generally requires transcripts and diplomas to be sent directly from the Korean institution. However, for some evaluations or situations where institution-direct is not possible, apostilled transcripts may be accepted. Our experts confirm the current WES requirement for your specific Korean institution.

Do I need an apostilled transcript for US graduate school applications?

Most US graduate schools accept unofficial transcripts for initial applications and request official transcripts upon admission. 'Official' typically means institution-direct sealed transcripts — apostille is not usually required by graduate schools themselves unless specified.

Which US professional licensing boards require apostilled Korean transcripts?

Some state medical boards (FSMB), nursing boards (NCLEX via CGFNS), and state bar associations require apostilled foreign transcripts with certified translations. Requirements vary by state and profession. Our experts confirm your specific licensing board's requirements.

Can I get my Korean graduate school transcript apostilled if I studied at a foreign branch campus in Korea?

For transcripts from foreign university branch campuses operating in Korea, the apostille pathway depends on whether the degree is issued by the Korean campus or the foreign home institution. Our experts assess your specific situation.