If you are applying for higher education, jobs, or immigration abroad, you have likely heard the terms transcripts and marksheets. Many students assume both are identical because they show academic performance. However, universities and credential evaluation agencies treat them as two different documents. Submitting the wrong one can lead to application delays, rejection, or additional verification requests.

This guide explains the difference between transcripts and marksheets, when you need them, and how to get them issued from your university in India.

What Is a Marksheet?

A marksheet is a semester-wise or year-wise record issued by your school/college/university showing:

Subjects you studied each academic term

Marks or grades obtained in individual subjects

Internal and external exam scores

Result status (pass/fail/backlog)

Students receive multiple marksheets during a degree program for example, six marksheets for a 3-year course if issued semester-wise.

Marksheets are primarily used for:

College admissions within India

Government job applications

Competitive exam verification

Personal and record-keeping use

A marksheet is NOT considered a consolidated academic performance summary.

What Is a Transcript?

A transcript is an official consolidated academic report, sealed and attested by the university. It includes:

Course duration and enrolled program

All subjects studied throughout the degree

Total credits earned

Subject-wise marks or grades

Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) or percentage

Credit and grading system explanation

Transcripts are typically required for:

Admission to foreign universities (US, Canada, UK, Australia, Europe)

WES / ECE / IQAS credential evaluations

Work visa and immigration

NRI and international documentation purposes

A transcript is always issued by the University Registrar or Controller of Examinations not by the affiliated college.

Key Differences: Transcript vs Marksheet

FeatureMarksheetTranscriptIssued forEach semester/yearFull academic programIssued byCollege/UniversityUniversity onlyContentMarks per termComplete academic summaryFormatMultiple sheetsSingle consolidated documentAcceptance abroadNot sufficient aloneMandatory for admissions & WESLegal sealNot alwaysAlways sealed & attestedCredibilityLimited for global useGlobally recognized

Which One Do Foreign Universities Accept?

Transcripts are compulsory for:

Student visa applications

International college/university admissions

Degree equivalency checks (WES, ECA etc.)

Marksheets may be submitted as supporting documents but cannot replace transcripts.

For example:

WES Canada requires transcripts to be sent directly by the issuing university.

Many US universities require official sealed envelopes stamped across the flaps.

Without transcripts, your admission process can get delayed or canceled.

Can You Use Only Marksheets for International Applications?

No. Marksheets alone do not provide:

Total credits earned

Overall grading and academic load

Course evaluation details

Foreign evaluation bodies need transcripts to compare your degree with their local education system.

Do Transcripts Include Backlogs?

Yes. Transcripts mention:

Subject-wise attempts

Repeat exams (if any)

Final outcome/results

However, failed attempts are generally not highlighted unless required by the institution’s evaluation system.

How to Apply for Transcripts in India

Most universities allow both online and offline transcript applications.

General process:

Submit transcript request form online/offline

Attach marksheets and degree certificate copies

Pay transcript issuance fee

University verifies records

Transcripts issued in sealed envelope or sent directly to foreign institution

Processing time: 7–30 working days, depending on the university

You may also require:

Apostille or Embassy attestation for immigration

Courier dispatch for international universities

WES-specific Academic Records Request Form

Cost of Transcripts in India

Fees vary by university:

Average per set: ₹500 to ₹3,500

Additional courier charges for overseas dispatch: extra

Some universities issue transcripts digitally, reducing time and cost.

Conclusion

Although both marksheets and transcripts contain academic details, they serve different purposes. For international applications, transcripts are mandatory, as they provide a complete, authenticated academic record recognized worldwide. Marksheets support the process but cannot replace transcripts.