Certified Translations for Law School Applications

LSAC itself does not always require certified translations for credential evaluation. However, many individual law schools do require them as part of their own admissions review. Because requirements vary by school, submitting certified translations from the start is the safest approach. It prevents the risk of having to redo your translations later if a school requests certified versions after you have already applied.

LSAC requires that translations be literal, line-by-line, and word-for-word, maintaining the same format as the original document. This means the translation should mirror the layout, structure, and organization of your academic records. Florida Translate produces format-matched translations that meet this standard for every document we handle.

In some cases LSAC may accept self-translated documents, but this is not recommended. Many law schools require translations done by a third-party certified translator, and admissions committees expect professional quality. A self-translation may raise questions about accuracy and could lead to your application being delayed or flagged for additional review.

For the credential evaluation, the issuing institution sends your original academic documents directly to LSAC in a sealed envelope. The specific submission process for translations can vary, so contact LSAC directly or check your LSAC account for current instructions. Florida Translate provides your certified translations in both digital and print-ready formats so you are prepared for any submission method required.

Yes. All academic documents not in English must be translated for LLM applications. LSAC requires LLM translations to be literal and word-for-word, in the same format as the original. This includes transcripts, degree certificates, and proof of graduation from all postsecondary programs completed outside the United States.

Standard delivery is within 24 to 48 hours for most academic documents. Turnaround depends on the total page count and language pair. If you have an urgent deadline, contact us directly and we can discuss rush options to accommodate your timeline.

Yes. Our certified translations meet the standards required by LSAC, all ABA-accredited law schools, USCIS, and state and federal courts. Each translation includes a signed certification of accuracy that confirms the translation is complete and faithful to the original document.

Cuba and China both have special procedures that go beyond a standard certified translation. For Cuba, applicants must go through the Consultoría Jurídica Internacional (CJI): the CJI has documents verified by Cuba's Ministry of Higher Education, legalized by the Ministry of External Affairs, translated into English, and sent directly to LSAC. A separate copy of the original Certificación de Notas y Certificación de Título is also sent to LSAC by the applicant. For China, LSAC requires transcripts in both Chinese and English, university-certified graduation and degree certificates in Chinese with photo, plus three CSSD verification reports covering the transcript, graduation certificate, and degree certificate. CSSD reports must be sent to LSAC through the institutional recipient list — email submissions are not accepted. Use the country requirements tool on this page for full details, or contact us for guidance.