What is the difference between an official and unofficial transcript?

An official transcript is one that is sent directly to Johns Hopkins University from your previous institution of study. They must be mailed or sent electronically over a secure server by an employee of your prior institution. This ensures that the transcript is not altered prior to reaching the admissions office here at Johns Hopkins University.

Some universities may mail you an official copy of your transcript in a sealed envelope. You will then want to mail that envelope, with the seal still intact, to the admissions office.

While the information on an unofficial transcript mirrors the information presented on an official transcript, unofficial transcripts can be downloaded and accessed by the student. These are sometimes also visible online via your prior institution's student portal or intranet.

Helpful Tip: Plan ahead when requesting your transcripts and do so early. You will need to consider the turnaround time between when you request a copy of your transcript be sent, and when that request is completed by your prior college or university. Turnaround times vary by institution, and you want to ensure your transcript reaches the admissions office in advance of your application deadline.