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All You Need To Know About Backlog Certificate in 2024

Shakthivel Krishnaraj

7 min read

Updated On

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Have you heard the exciting news about India releasing over 4,00,000 backlogs of Indian International Students (IIS) from universities worldwide? It's a big relief for many students! We all know that having a backlog while studying can be quite common, and it's okay.

This blog is your go-to source for all the valuable insights about the Backlog certificate. Get ready to uncover answers to every question you might have about the Backlog certificate. Let's dive in and make sense of it all together!

What is Backlog?

A backlog is the number of subjects that a student has failed in a course. A backlog exam is usually given at the end of the semester, allowing the student to demonstrate their knowledge of the material to earn a passing grade.

What is a Backlog Certificate?

A backlog certificate is a proof from your academic institution indicating the number of backlogs you have cleared to date. It shows the number of papers or subjects in your undergraduate or graduate level courses you reappeared.

To get a backlog certificate, you need to file an application requesting the institution to issue the same. This is the case since the majority of colleges only offer backlog certificates to students who need them for subsequent admission.

What is a No Backlog Certificate?

A ‘no backlog certificate’ confirms that a student's academic record does not contain any backlogs. Typically, universities do not require a "no backlog certificate" when a student's academic record is free of any backlogs.

How Does a Backlog Certificate Differ from an Academic Transcript?

A backlog certificate is issued when a student has incomplete or failed courses and indicates the specific courses or subjects that need to be completed to fulfill degree requirements. An academic transcript provides a comprehensive record of a student's academic history, including courses, grades, credits earned, and degree(s) conferred.

The backlog certificate focuses on outstanding requirements, while an academic transcript provides a holistic overview of the student's academic performance. In summary, the backlog certificate addresses incomplete or failed courses, while the academic transcript offers a complete record of a student's academic achievement.

Backlog Certificate Sample

Have a look at the Backlog Certificate certificate provided to a student by the university. Have a look at the sample below to gain more insights.

Backlog Certificate

This is to certify that Rajeev Sharma or s/o Manoj Sharma bearing Roll. No. 325896 is a bonafide student of B. Com (2020- 2023) at _____ University.

He has passed the bachelor’s course. His backlog record is as follows:

Semester Passing Year (Expected) Passing Year Number of Reappears Reappears Subjects
Semester 1 June 2020 January 2021 1 Accountancy
Semester 2 January 2020 January 2021 Nil
Semester 3 June 2021 January 2022 Nil
Semester 4 January 2021 January 2022 1 Cost accounting
Semester 5 June 2022 January 2023 1 Accounting
Semester 6 January 2022 January 2023 Nil Accounting
This certificate is being issued to the student and is verified as such. ___________ Principal Signature

Do I Need a Backlog Certificate To Study Abroad?

All higher education institutions establish specific eligibility criteria that students must satisfy to secure admission to international education. If a student has a backlog, the university may request a Backlog Certificate to validate their academic performance.

Although certain colleges prioritize applicants with unblemished academic records and no backlogs, many universities consider alternative selection criteria such as standardized test scores (e.g., GRE, GMAT, SAT, TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, ACT) alongside academic records. Selection criteria may also encompass curricular and extracurricular accomplishments.

Backlog Application Format

Have a look at the Backlog application format that is exclusively tailored for you, so that you can have clear insights into the Backlog Certificate.

Subject: Request for Backlog Certificate

To The Principal/Dean

[Name of University]

[Address of the University]

Respected Sir/Madam,

I, [Name], son/daughter of [Father’s Name], bearing Roll No. [Roll Number], enrolled in [Course Name with Batch] at your esteemed university, am writing to request the issuance of my backlog certificate. I require this document as part of my application process for a master's degree program. Enclosed below are the details of my backlogs:

Semester Expected Year of Passing Year of Passing Number of Backlogs Number of Attempts Subject Reappears
Semester I




Semester II




Semester III




Semester IV




Semester V




Semester VI




I kindly request that you expedite the issuance of my backlog certificate at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your attention to this matter.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Name]

Who needs a Backlog Certificate?

There is often confusion among students regarding the necessity of a backlog certificate, even if they have cleared all exams on their first attempt without any backlogs.

  • Backlog certificates are specifically intended for college and university students with a history of backlogs in their academic records.
  • Universities that consider backlogs request students to provide backlog certificates, in order to review the topics with backlogs, the number of attempts made to clear exams, and other academic details related to backlogs.
  • It is mandatory for students with no backlogs to submit a "No Backlog certificate."

Therefore, all students are required to submit a backlog certificate, regardless of whether they have backlogs or not. It is advisable to be prepared to apply for a backlog certificate, as specific requirements may vary among different universities.

Also Read: Top 15 Free Education Countries For Indian Students

How are Backlogs counted?

The completion of courses is verified upon the student's reception of a certificate from the university. This certificate serves as evidence that the student has fulfilled all the program requirements, making them eligible for immigration to other countries. Backlogs are counted using the following methods:

  • Based on the number of subjects: Backlogs are assessed by the number of subjects in which a student has not met the requirements, rather than the number of attempts made to pass those subjects. This approach is employed by universities in the USA, UK, and Canada. For instance, if a student fails in two subjects and takes three attempts to pass each subject, the total number of backlogs will be counted as 2, not 6.
  • Based on the number of attempts: Backlogs are determined by the number of attempts or reattempts made to clear an exam. This method is utilized by universities in Australia, Germany, and some Canadian universities. For example, if a student fails one subject and makes three attempts to pass it, the total backlog count is considered as 3.

What is the procedure to get a Backlog Certificate?

To obtain a backlog certificate, you will need to contact your school and schedule an appointment. The backlog certificate should ideally state that you don't have any backlogs after verifying your academic records. Be sure to apply for the certificates well in advance and fill in the backlog certificate application accurately. Any discrepancies will further delay the process.

Here are two important points to note:

  • Indian universities are acquainted with the process of issuing backlog certificates, and they guide students to submit a formal application for the same. You will need to submit a written application along with a completed form to request a backlog or no-backlog certificate.
  • When universities don't keep track of your certificates, it's difficult to issue them. In these cases, you may have to contact your future university to request the certificate. If you're having issues with a zero backlog certificate, that's the time when you might experience this problem.

Also Read: PhD Abroad With 10 Best Scholarships for Indian Students

Study Abroad Options With Backlog

Numerous study-abroad opportunities are connected to the Backlog. The following are a few of the universities listed in each country that accept students with academic backlogs.

USA Universities that Accept Backlogs

The table below gives you informative insights regarding the number of backlogs accepted by US universities.

UK Universities that Accept Backlogs

The table below gives you informative insights regarding the number of backlogs accepted by UK universities.

New Zealand Universities that Accept Backlog

The table below gives you informative insights regarding the number of backlogs accepted by New Zealand universities.

Australian Universities that Accept Backlog

The table below gives you informative insights regarding the number of backlogs accepted by Australian universities.

Canada Universities that Accept Backlog

The table below gives you informative insights regarding the number of backlogs accepted by Canadian universities.

Top 5 Tips To Avoid Backlogs

We have listed some tips to avoid a backlog in your education. Some students can develop certain habits which can be avoided by following the suggestions mentioned below.

  • Regular attendance is crucial as some schools enforce attendance requirements that may affect exam eligibility and cause backlogs, complicating academic progress.
  • Reviewing class notes is an effective way to prepare for exams and ensure readiness.
  • Addressing doubts promptly is essential, particularly in subjects where understanding mathematical concepts is fundamental. Seeking clarification from teachers can alleviate uncertainty.
  • Adhering to a disciplined study schedule can alleviate stress and prepare you for exams, ensuring peak performance on test day.
  • Daily practice is key to improving your skills in solving question papers.

Immigrate to Your Dream Destination with GetGIS!

A backlog certificate is beneficial for applying for jobs or further studies before officially graduating. If you need more information about this, GetGIS is available to provide insights. We also offer reliable support and guidance for immigrating safely to your dream destination. Book a free consultation with us today to kickstart your immigration journey.

Useful Links!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of getting a backlog certificate?

It is a document that shows that you have completed a certain number of study abroad credits. This document can help you get into some colleges and universities.

What happens if you get a backlog certificate?

When a backlog occurs, work accumulates, Causing delays and decreased productivity rates. Prioritizing tasks and allocating resources, Are key to managing backlogs and staying on course. So pay attention to clear it.

Are backlog papers difficult certificates?

Backlog papers are often more challenging than regular ones. If you're aiming to clear your backlog, it's essential to thoroughly read from the books and comprehend the concepts instead of simply memorizing them. Creating a mental or written image and then explaining the concept in theoretical terms can aid in better understanding.

Is backlog certificate good or bad?

The existence of a backlog can carry both positive and negative consequences. For instance, an increasing backlog of product orders may signify growing sales. However, organizations typically aim to steer clear of backlogs as they could imply a rise in production inefficiency.

Can I get a degree with 1 backlog certificate?

Earning a university degree signifies successful completion of the specified subjects, along with all requisite assignments and projects. Therefore, regardless of any backlogs or time taken to complete the degree, as long as all requirements are met, the university will confer the degree upon you.

Is a backlog certificate necessary for Australia?

If you do not have any backlogs, you may be eligible to apply for a no backlog certificate, which is typically required by countries such as New Zealand and Australia for university applications, while universities in Canada generally do not request this certificate.

Who issues backlog certificates?

It is a supporting document for an academic transcript that is issued by the institution where you have studied. In case of zero backlogs, you will still get a backlog certificate stating No-Backlog.

Does backlog certifcate affect career?

For instance, having outstanding courses but still completing a B.E. within 4 years will not impact your career trajectory or future study opportunities. Likewise, if you graduate with backlogs after 5 years, it remains inconsequential.

In which countries are backlogs accepted?

Countries like Australia, Canada, New Zealand, The UK, The US, and Ireland accept backlogs.

What if I fail a backlog exam?

You will be required to retake the failed exam subjects in your 3rd semester alongside your regular 3rd-semester subjects. Similarly, if you fail in certain subjects in the 2nd semester, a similar process will occur in the 4th semester.

Can I get a scholarship if I have a backlog certificate?

Students who have pending backlog exams at the time of submitting their application are not eligible for scholarships. Nonetheless, students who successfully complete their backlog exams before the application deadline are eligible to apply.

Can I join TCS if I have backlog certificate?

Up to one pending backlog or arrear in the highest qualification can be allowed at the time of taking part in the TCS Selection process. If chosen, no pending backlogs will be allowed at the time of joining TCS. All pending backlogs must be finished within the regular course duration.
Shakthivel Krishnaraj

Shakthivel Krishnaraj, 

Content Marketing Specialist

Shakthivel Krishnaraj brings his expertise to the role of Content Marketing Specialist at GetGIS with a professional background rooted in journalism and writing,  He is dedicated to aiding individuals in making successful career transitions, drawing upon his extensive experience across various industries. His skill set is marked by thorough research abilities and a genuine passion for sharing knowledge that empower readers with insightful information.

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