ECFMG Translation for International Medical Graduates
Translations of medical diplomas, transcripts and name documents that meet ECFMG's translation requirements for certification and residency applications.
The short answer
ECFMG accepts English translations only from a government official, a medical school official, or a professional translation service. The translation must be complete (not an extract), made from the original or a photocopy of it rather than a transcription, and include a signed statement in English certifying it is correct, with the signer's title and any seal.
Rules that apply
Each rule links to its source. Checked 4 November 2026. Rules change, so confirm with the office that will receive your documents.
| Rule | Source |
|---|---|
| Translations must be prepared by a government official, a medical school official, or a professional translation service. | ECFMG (Intealth), English translations |
| The translation must be prepared from the original document or a photocopy of it; translations of transcriptions are not accepted. | ECFMG (Intealth), English translations |
| Extract translations (only part of a document) are not acceptable. | ECFMG (Intealth), English translations |
| The translation must include a certification statement in English that it is correct, signed with the signer's title, and the seal if there is one. | ECFMG (Intealth), English translations |
| ECFMG recommends a translation service but does not require applicants to use it. | ECFMG (Intealth), Translation service |
Where translations come in
International medical graduates go through ECFMG certification before residency, and ECFMG verifies the medical diploma and transcript directly with the school. If those credentials are not in English, ECFMG needs an English translation that meets its rules. Translations come up again later: for state medical boards, residency programmes and, for many graduates, the visa process.
How we meet ECFMG's rules
- Professional translation service. We are one, which is one of the three sources ECFMG accepts. Freelance translations without a service behind them are not on ECFMG's list.
- From the original or a photocopy. Send a scan of the diploma or transcript itself. We do not translate from a typed transcription of it.
- Complete. Every word on the document is translated, including seals, stamps, signatures and notes. No extracts.
- Certification statement in English, signed, with the signer's title and our company details.
Names
ECFMG checks that the name on your credentials matches your application. If your diploma shows your name in another script or a different order, the translation gives it as it appears, in standard transliteration, and you may need to submit name-change or name-verification documents to ECFMG separately. Tell us the name exactly as on your ECFMG account so we can note it.
Course and clinical records
Some state boards and programmes ask for more than ECFMG does: detailed transcripts with hours per subject, clinical rotation records, or internship certificates. Each is a separate document, translated to the same standard. Medical terms are rendered with their standard English names, and subject names are translated literally, not mapped to US course titles.
State medical boards and residency programmes
After ECFMG, state medical boards review credentials again for licensure, and some ask for translations that meet their own rules, such as translations sent directly from the translator or accompanied by a notarized certificate. Residency programmes usually rely on ECFMG's verification. Keep a copy of every translation and certificate you submit to ECFMG; you may be able to reuse them if a board accepts the same format.
Postgraduate and internship records
Internship certificates, specialty diplomas and certificates of good standing from a foreign medical council are separate documents with their own seals and signatures, and each is translated in full.
What we don't do
We translate; we do not submit documents to ECFMG, contact your medical school, or advise on ECFMG or licensing requirements. ECFMG's rules can change; check its translation page before you order.
Documents we translate for this
Diploma translation
Certified diploma and degree certificate translation for credential evaluation, licensing boards, employers and use abroad.
Academic Transcripts translation
Certified transcript translation for credential evaluation, graduate admission and professional licensing.
Professional License translation
Certified translation of foreign professional licences, registrations and verifications for state licensing boards, credential evaluators and visa screening.
Price
$39 for the first page (up to 250 words) into English, $49 into any other language, then $0.116 per additional word. Each file is priced on its own. The signed certificate of accuracy is included.
Full pricingTurnaround
24 hours standard for most documents. Expedited service is +50% for 6–8 hours and +100% for 1–3 hours. Large files are quoted with a delivery date before you pay.
Questions
Is a notarized translation needed for ECFMG?
ECFMG asks for a signed certification statement in English, not notarization. Some state boards ask for more; check theirs.
Do you translate the back of my diploma?
Yes. Seals, registration numbers and endorsements on the back are part of the document and are translated.
Can you mail hard copies?
Yes, if a board or programme needs paper. The PDF is delivered first.
How fast can you translate a medical diploma?
Most diplomas fit within the first page and are delivered within 24 hours, or in hours with expedited service.
Does ECFMG accept translations from your service?
ECFMG accepts translations from professional translation services that meet its rules. Ours are complete, made from the original or a photocopy, and carry a signed English certification.
Do I have to use ECFMG's recommended translation service?
No. ECFMG says applicants are not required to use it, though other translations must meet its requirements.
Can you translate my diploma if I only have a photocopy?
Yes. ECFMG accepts translations made from the original or a photocopy of it.
Related
Prepared by Global Certified Translations, Edgewater, NJ. Translations are signed by a State Court Certified Translator. This page explains translation requirements; it is not legal advice.
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