Texas Diploma & Transcript Apostille
For Study & Work Abroad
Complete 2026 guide to obtaining an apostille for a Texas diploma or transcript. This is a complex three-step process involving the school, the county, and the state.
- Must be notarized by the School Registrar (not just any notary)
- CRITICAL STEP: Must be authenticated by the County Clerk BEFORE sending to the State
- Mail delays: 3-4 months processing time in late 2025
⭐ At a Glance — 2026 Snapshot
| Item | Status (December 2025) |
|---|---|
| Document Type | School Record (Diploma, Transcript) |
| Mandatory Step 1 | School Registrar Notarization |
| Mandatory Step 2 | County Clerk Authentication |
| State apostille fee | $15 per document |
| Mail-in processing | Slow 3-4 months in late 2025 |
| Top rejection reason | ❌ Notarizing the diploma yourself instead of the Registrar |
Document Requirements
To obtain an apostille, your school documents must be prepared correctly. You cannot simply photocopy your diploma and notarize it yourself.
The "County Clerk" Rule
Just like other notarized documents in Texas, school records must be authenticated by the County Clerk of the county where the notary is commissioned before going to the State.
MUST Have
- • Registrar's Signature: The School Registrar (or Principal) must sign an affidavit certifying the document.
- • Notarization: A Texas notary must witness the Registrar's signature.
- • County Clerk Seal: The document must bear the seal and signature of the County Clerk authenticating the notary.
CANNOT Use
- • Self-Notarized Copies: You cannot just write "True Copy" and sign it yourself. The SCHOOL must do it.
- • Out-of-State Notaries: Must be a Texas notary.
- • Direct to State: Skipping the County Clerk will result in rejection.
Step-by-Step Process
Ask for a "Notarized Transcript" or "Notarized Diploma" for apostille purposes. Most universities (UT, Texas A&M, etc.) have a form for this. The Registrar will print the document, sign an affidavit, and have it notarized.
Once you receive the notarized document, check the notary's stamp to see which county they are commissioned in. Take the document to THAT County Clerk's office for authentication. (Fee ~$5).
Mail your County-authenticated document, the completed Form 2102, and the $15 fee to:
Authentications Unit
P.O. Box 13550
Austin, TX 78711-3550
💡 Pro Tip: Our wizard can generate a complete submission package with pre-filled forms, cover letter, and shipping label in minutes.
Generate My Package →Fees & Processing Times
| Service | Fee | Time |
|---|---|---|
| County Clerk Authentication | ~$5.00 (Varies) | Same Day (Walk-in) |
| State Apostille Fee | $15.00 | 3-4 Months (Mail) |
| Walk-In Service (State) | $15.00 | Same Day / Next Day |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Skipping County Authentication
This is the #1 reason for rejection. You cannot skip the County Clerk step.
-
Notarizing it Yourself
You cannot take your diploma to a UPS store and have them notarize it. The SCHOOL OFFICIAL must sign the statement.
Official Resources & University Links
Use these official links to request notarized documents directly from major Texas universities.
University Registrar Offices
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I just notarize my original diploma?
No. You cannot simply take your diploma to a notary. The SCHOOL REGISTRAR must sign a statement in front of a notary certifying that the document is a true copy of the school records.
Do I need County Clerk authentication?
Yes. Because the document is notarized, it MUST be authenticated by the County Clerk of the county where the notary is commissioned before it goes to the Secretary of State.
How do I get a notarized transcript from UT Austin or Texas A&M?
Most major Texas universities have a specific process for this. You usually need to order a 'Notarized Transcript' or 'Notarized Diploma' directly from the Registrar's office. Mention it is for an apostille.
"Students often get stuck because they don't know which county to go to for authentication. Always check the notary's stamp on your transcript—that tells you exactly which County Clerk you need."