GRADUATION
Apostille or consular legalisation for your diploma
Begin with the receiving authority’s written checklist. Authentication concerns a document’s origin; it does not itself award academic recognition or a professional licence.
In this guide
Check whether the Convention applies
Where the Apostille Convention applies between the issuing and receiving jurisdictions, an apostille can replace diplomatic or consular legalisation for covered public documents. Check the HCCH status table, effective dates and any objections, then the receiving authority’s instructions. Some documents or uses are exempt from authentication; if the Convention does not apply, ask which legalisation route is required.
Do it while you are still in Türkiye
Ask the designated Turkish authority how your document is authenticated, whether prior verification is needed, and what submission methods, fees and processing times apply. Plan before departure, but do not pay to authenticate documents the receiving body does not require. Ask about authorised representation or remote options if you will be abroad.
Translation is a separate step
An apostille authenticates the signature, the signatory’s capacity and any seal or stamp; it does not verify the content or translate the document. Ask the receiving authority which translation language and certification it accepts and whether the original or translation must be authenticated. Follow its sequence before paying.
Which documents to authenticate
Use the list below to ask what is needed; it is not a requirement to authenticate every item. The receiving body and competent authentication authority determine which documents and copies are acceptable.
- The diploma
- The transcript
- The diploma supplement, where issued
- Course content or syllabus documents, if the authority asks for them
- The language of instruction letter
- For regulated professions, internship or clinical hours confirmations
A FEW MORE ANSWERS
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my country is a party to the convention?
Check the status table published by the Hague Conference on Private International Law, which lists every party and the date it took effect. We deliberately do not reproduce the list here because it changes and because an out-of-date copy would send you down the wrong route.
Can my family do this for me after I leave?
Ask the issuing office whether someone may act for you and which authorisation it requires. A family relationship alone does not establish that authority.
Sources & references
Use the linked source for current requirements. The dates below record when each source was checked.
Plan your next step.
Bring your questions about programs, documents or settling in to a MEC Education advisor.