What is an Apostille?
An Apostille is a document that verifies the authenticity of the signature on the document; the capacity in which the person signing the document acted; and the identity of any stamp or seal affixed to the document. The Apostille is a specific form of authentication for countries that participate in the Hague Convention of 1961.
The Hague Convention of 1961
The purpose of the Hague Convention of 1961 is that it abolishes the requirement of diplomatic and consular legalization for public documents originating in one Convention country and intended for use in another. Documents issued in a Convention country which have been certified by a Convention Apostille are entitled to recognition in any other Convention country without any further authentication. Such recognition is an obligation on the part of the United States to the other countries party to the Convention and the federal courts and state authorities have been alerted to this obligation. Consular officers in Convention countries are prohibited from placing a certification over the Convention Apostille.
Information re. Apostilles
Please refer to The ABCs of Apostilles, a brochure that includes answers to common questions, including when, where and how Apostilles are issued and what their effects are.
- Download The ABCs of Apostilles (pdf)
- View a list of countries that have joined the Apostille Convention
Request an Apostille
To authenticate foreign academic credentials, transcripts or degrees, please mail a certified copy of the document to NEASC at the address below. Please include a cover letter providing a return address:
Commission on International Education
3 Burlington Woods, Suite 100
Burlington, MA 01803-4514 USA
Fee: $100 USD
The cost for each Apostille is $100 USD, which includes postage and handling. Payment may be made by using the online form below or by check. Checks should be made out to New England Association of Schools and Colleges, Inc.
For questions or concerns, please contact us at cie@neasc.org.