What Documents Need Apostille for Study Abroad?

Planning to study abroad is exciting, but it also comes with a lot of paperwork. One of the top questions I get from students and parents is: “What documents do we need apostilled for school abroad?” Let’s break it down so you can prepare without surprises.

• Academic Records
  Diplomas, transcripts, and letters of enrollment often need an apostille to prove they’re valid outside the U.S.

• Identity Documents
  Some schools require a birth certificate or even a notarized copy of your passport to be apostilled.

• Parental Permission / Power of Attorney
  If a minor is studying abroad, some countries require a notarized parental consent form with an apostille.

• Why it matters
  Foreign schools and governments want to ensure your U.S. documents are legitimate. The apostille certifies that.

• How long does it take?
  State apostilles: 10-12 business days (rush 3-5 days).
  Federal (like FBI background checks): 7–10 business days with expedited service.

If you or your child are preparing to study abroad, I can help streamline the apostille process so you can focus on packing and planning, not paperwork. Start your apostille service here.