Frequently asked questions
What is an academic transcript?
An academic transcript is the record of courses, grades, credits, dates, and other academic information maintained by the issuing school. The issuer controls whether a copy is official and how it is delivered.
What is the difference between an official and an unofficial transcript?
An official transcript is provided or authenticated under the issuer’s current process. A HeyCongrats transcript-style product is a personalized, non-official display layout and is not an official transcript.
How do I request an official high school or college transcript?
Request it from the school, district, registrar, or authorized records provider. For high school records, begin with our official high school record guide. For a separate display layout, browse Transcript Maker.
Does an official transcript need to be sent directly to the recipient?
Often, but the recipient and issuing institution set that rule. Confirm delivery instructions before ordering. Do not assume a forwarded PDF, printed file, or display layout meets an official-delivery requirement.
Is a sealed transcript still official after it is opened?
That is determined by the issuing institution and receiving organization. Ask both parties before opening, copying, or forwarding an official transcript.
What if my transcript was not received or a secure link expired?
Contact the issuer or its authorized delivery provider and ask for the status, resend process, or a new secure link. The issuer controls formal transcript delivery.
What if my school closed or the records are old?
Contact the district, successor institution, state education agency, or designated records custodian. For postsecondary schools, confirm current record-holder information before relying on a third-party service.
Can a hold prevent an official transcript from being released?
Possibly. Policies vary by institution, state, and record type. The registrar or records custodian can explain whether a hold applies and available options.
What course and grade details are needed for a transcript-style display copy?
The selected product form controls the required fields. Provide only the information necessary for the display layout, review every entry, and do not treat the finished item as official evidence.
Can a HeyCongrats transcript copy be used for jobs, admission, licensing, or verification?
No. Request the official transcript or verification directly from the issuer whenever a recipient needs proof.
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