ALL ABOUT TRANSCRIPTS
A transcript is a detailed record of the courses you have taken at a college or university (or, in some cases, at a high school), including the corresponding grades you were assigned and any credits you earned. You will have a separate transcript from each college or university where you have earned academic credit. Transcripts also often list any transfer credits a school has accepted from other institutions, AP tests, and other credit-earning opportunities.
When will I need a transcript?
Fellowship programs, graduate schools, and employers often request transcripts to verify your coursework and details about your degree program. If a transcript is requested, carefully review the instructions to determine whether an official or unofficial transcript is required and to identify delivery method preferences.
How do I request my Davidson College transcript?
Follow the most up-to-date transcript request instructions on the Davidson College Registrar’s website. You’ll notice that the College has contracted with the National Student Clearinghouse to process electronic and paper transcript requests. Orders may be placed 24/7 and are fully automated. Typically, electronic transcripts are typically sent to a recipient within an hour. Electronic orders with attachments are reviewed manually and may take up to one business day. Paper transcripts are usually placed in the mail within 24 hours or the next business day. There is no charge for current students unless express mail delivery is requested. There is a nominal charge of $7.50 for alumni/former students.
How do I request my transcript from another college or university?
Follow the most up-to-date transcript request instructions from that institution’s registrar or academic records office.
What’s the difference between official and unofficial transcripts?
Official and unofficial transcripts include the same information, but an official transcript is delivered in such a way that the recipient (e.g., a graduate school or fellowship program) can verify its authenticity. A screenshot or printout of your grades from Banner or an internal grade system is not considered a transcript.
An electronic transcript is considered to be official if it is sent directly to a third party from the college or university or its transcript delivery partner (like the National Student Clearinghouse). A paper transcript is considered to be official if it is sent directly to a third party from the college or university or its transcript delivery partner. If you request a paper transcript sent to yourself and do not open the sealed envelope, you can send it to a third party and it will still be considered official.
A transcript is considered unofficial if you request an electronic copy sent to yourself so you can upload it somewhere or send it to someone else, or if you request a paper copy sent to yourself and open the sealed envelope.
In what formats can I request a transcript?
Most colleges and universities offer transcripts in paper and electronic formats. If a third party requests your transcript, confirm whether they require a certified official transcript or just an unofficial copy that looks like a transcript (rather than a grade report from Banner). Paper official transcripts are usually printed and mailed directly from the school or its transcript delivery partner (like the National Student Clearinghouse for example) in a sealed envelope. A photocopy of a printed official transcript is considered unofficial.
Electronic official transcripts are typically emailed through a transcript delivery partner (like the National Student Clearinghouse). An electronic official transcript may be delivered in a password-protected format and will indicate to the recipient that it is an authenticated, official document. If you request an electronic copy sent to yourself so you can upload it to an application or send it to someone else, that copy is considered unofficial.