5. Diploma Mills

In reviewing a job application, employers should also be aware of “diploma mills”.  These are organizations that sell academic credentials, like diplomas, transcripts, or degrees, to anyone who is willing to pay for them. 

These organizations are becoming increasingly prevalent and accessible as internet-based educational systems continue to evolve. However, a 2009 study of credential assessment agencies found that only 2% of submitted international academic documents were fraudulent. While it is important to know how to recognize false documentation, it is also important to remember that the vast majority of educational documents are likely legitimate. The Resources section contains several informative websites about how to recognize diploma mills.