How to Get a Copy of Your College Transcript

Your college transcript is one document you probably didn't keep a copy of when you graduated, thinking, "Why do I need this now?" But years down the road, when you decide to go to graduate school or even just take a class for fun, you may need it.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Internet Access
• Postage Stamps
• Envelopes
• Computers

1. Get all your information together before requesting your transcript. You'll need to include your social security number, the address where you want the transcript sent, your phone number, a statement authorizing the college or university to release the information, and your signature.

2. Find the address and phone number of the college or university from which you graduated. You may be able to find this in the phone book or on the Internet. Remember that the Registrar's office usually handles transcript requests.

3. Call ahead to make certain your transcript is readily available. If you have any outstanding fees or if your records are not on computer, your request may be delayed.

4. Check if your alma mater has a Web page. Many schools now handle transcript requests online, saving you time and postage.

5. Send your request - along with any pertinent processing fees - to the Registrar's office of the college or university from which you graduated. Allow at least a week for processing; more if your alma mater happens to be a large school.

Tips & Warnings

• Find out how the institution to which you are applying prefers to receive your transcript. Some colleges or universities can send your transcript straight to the school you're applying to after you've filled out a simple form.

• Always leave yourself plenty of time. You don't want any bureaucratic red tape to cause you to miss an application deadline.