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What is the Difference Between Official and Unofficial Transcripts?
Overview
Description: This article explains the key differences between official and unofficial transcripts, including their uses, access methods, and how they are recognized by institutions and employers.
Official vs. Unofficial Transcripts
An official transcript is a certified document issued directly by an educational institution that includes a comprehensive record of a student’s academic history. It typically features the institution’s seal, signature of the registrar, and is sent directly to the requesting entity, such as an employer, another educational institution, or a certification board. Official transcripts are generally required for formal applications or when verifying credentials, as they are recognized as an authentic reflection of a student’s academic achievements. At Capitol Technology University, an official transcript is required in order to apply accepted transfer credit to a student’s record.
In contrast, an unofficial transcript is an informal copy of a student’s academic record, accessible through the institution’s student portal or by request. While it includes similar academic information, such as grades and course history, it lacks the official seal and signature, meaning it is not considered a certified document. Unofficial transcripts are commonly used for personal reference, advising purposes, or preliminary assessments, but they may not be accepted in formal situations that require verified academic records.
How to View Your Unofficial Transcript
To view and print your unofficial transcript, follow these steps:
- Log in to the MyCapitol Portal: https://mycapitol.captechu.edu
- Click on the “Student” tab at the top of the page.
- Scroll down to the “Unofficial Transcript” section.
Click the “View Unofficial Transcript” link.
- View or print your transcript: Once your unofficial transcript appears, you can scroll to the bottom of the page and click “Printer-friendly unofficial transcript” to print a clean version.
Tip: You can also save the printer-friendly version as a PDF.
Ordering an Official Transcript
To request an official transcript, follow these steps:
- Go to the Clearinghouse transcript request portal: https://tsorder.studentclearinghouse.org/school/ficecode/00143600
- Select “Order a Transcript.”
You’ll be prompted to enter information to identify yourself as a current or former student. - Complete the required fields.
This includes your name, date of birth, student ID or SSN (if known), and the type of transcript you need. - Choose where to send your transcript.
You can send it electronically or by mail to a school, employer, or yourself. - Pay the transcript fee.
Payment is processed directly through the Clearinghouse’s secure system. - Submit your order.
You’ll receive a confirmation email and tracking updates once the order is processed.
Note: If you have a financial hold on your student account, your transcript request may be delayed.
Still Need Help?
If you still have questions pertaining to transcripts, please contact us at Registrar@captechu.edu.