Studying abroad, applying for international programs, or completing academic equivalency procedures in Türkiye requires official documentation. Throughout these processes, institutions often request sworn translations, notary approval, and in some cases, apostille certification.
This guide explains required documents from elementary school through doctoral level, the translation and legalization process, and requirements both for students applying abroad and those who have studied overseas and need their diploma recognized in Türkiye.
Required Documents by Education Level
| Education Level | Required Documents |
|---|---|
| Primary / Secondary School | Report Card, Student Certificate, Graduation Certificate |
| High School | Diploma, Transcript |
| Associate / Bachelor's Degree | Diploma, Transcript, Diploma Supplement, Student Certificate |
| Master's Degree | Diploma, Transcript, Thesis Cover Page & Abstract, Acceptance Letters |
| Doctorate | Diploma, Transcript, Thesis Cover Page & Abstract, Academic Documents |
Students Applying to Study Abroad
When applying to universities or academic institutions abroad, students are generally required to submit:
Diploma & Transcript
Diploma Supplement (if available)
Thesis Abstract & Cover Page (Graduate programs)
Reference & Motivation Letters
Official Correspondence (Acceptance Letters)
Student Certificate
Countries such as the USA, Germany, UK, Canada, and Australia often require sworn translation + notary approval + apostille certification for official academic documents.
Students Who Studied Abroad & Need Equivalency in Türkiye
Students who completed their education abroad and need their diploma recognized in Türkiye must apply for equivalency through YÖK (Council of Higher Education).
📌 Commonly Required Documents
Original Diploma (Apostilled or officially certified)
Transcript
Thesis Abstract / Cover Page (for Master’s & PhD)
Program Content / Course Descriptions (Syllabus)
Passport & ID Copy
Accreditation / Recognition Documents of the Institution (if requested)
📌 Translation Requirements in Türkiye
If the document is not in Turkish, sworn translation is mandatory
Many applications require notary-certified translations
Some countries must issue an apostille before translation is accepted in Türkiye
For example, documents issued in Germany are often already apostilled and may only require sworn translation in Türkiye, while documents from Russia or Ukraine typically require apostille in the issuing country.
How the Translation Process Works (Step-by-Step)
Send the document (PDF or clear photo)
Sworn translation is prepared
Notary approval is obtained (if needed)
Apostille process is completed
Delivery via PDF or printed copy
Languages We Translate
We provide sworn and notarized translation services in over 40 languages, including;
English, German, Russian, Arabic, French, Spanish, Chinese, Italian, Dutch, Uzbek, Persian, Azerbaijani, Bulgarian, Greek, Portuguese, and Turkmen.
Useful Tips for Students
✔ Ensure all seals and signatures are visible when scanning documents
✔ If submitting to multiple institutions, request multiple notarized copies
✔ Confirm document format requirements with the receiving institution
✔ Include program details and diploma supplements to speed up equivalency review
Need Professional Support?
Bey Translation & Foreign Language Services
We provide fast, reliable and professional translation solutions for your official documents.
📍 Molla Gürani, Turgut Özal Millet Cd Lütufpaşa Sok. No:54, Floor:1, Office No:1
34093 Fatih / Istanbul, Turkey