How To Replace Your Diploma From College
It can be pretty devastating to lose your college diploma. It's a physical representation of all the hard work and dedication you put into getting your education. You worked so hard for it, and now it's gone — or is it? Before you go into panic mode, take a few minutes to assess the situation and see what steps you can take to get a replacement.
Consider Investing in a Digital Copy of Your Diploma
If you're like most people, your diploma from college is probably stored in a safe place at home. But, what happens if you lose it or something happens to your house?
Your diploma is at risk of being destroyed or lost forever. One way to protect it is to keep a digital copy of it. You can store it on your computer or even on a flash drive. This way, you can access it at any time and anywhere as long as you have your computer or the flash drive with you. With the help of technology nowadays, you can store it in the cloud that can be accessed using a smartphone or a laptop.
Steps for Getting a Replacement College Diploma
Contact the College's Registrar and See What They Require for Replacing Diplomas
Every college has different procedures, so it's best to contact the registrar and find out what you need. Generally, you'll need to provide a copy of your unofficial transcript, proof of ID, and maybe even pay a fee.
Some colleges might also require you to complete an application form or go through an interview process. Make sure you have all the necessary documents and information ready before contacting the college. This will save you time and hassle.
Request an Official Copy of Your Transcript
You might be wondering how you can get an official copy of your transcript if the college asks for it. Some schools, specifically accredited colleges and universities, actually publish their student's grades on their websites for everyone to see. You can access the school website and check out your unofficial transcript. Then, use this information to request an official one from the registrar.
Fill Out an Application for a Replacement Diploma
If you're required to fill out an application, do so as accurately and thoroughly as possible. This will save you a lot of grief in correcting it later or completing another one if the first attempt fails. Spell your name correctly, provide specific details about your diploma for college, and ensure everything is accurate before sending it off.
Pay Any Fees Associated With Replacing Your Diploma
Replacing a diploma from college can sometimes come with a fee, so be prepared to pay it. The registrar's office will usually let you know how much the fee is. Make sure you have the money ready when you request your replacement diploma.
Tip: If you're in a rush, you can always request expedited service from the registrar's office. This way, they will process your application sooner and send you your replacement diploma as soon as possible.
Take Your Time and Be Patient
Replacing a college diploma can be a long and tedious process, so make sure you take your time and be patient. It's essential to follow the college's procedures to the letter to avoid errors or delays. And, if you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact the registrar or the school's administration.
Notarize Your Diploma Only if Needed
Some colleges might require you to have your replacement diploma notarized. This means that you have to take the document to a notary public, who will witness and sign it. This is an extra layer of security and assurance for the college that the replacement diploma is legitimate.
When applying to study abroad, you must get your school documents notarized, which include your diploma and transcript. When it comes to degrees from the United States, many countries insist that they be authenticated. The notarization of a diploma or a transcript is an additional layer of protection. The notary public will state that they have seen and verified the contents of the document.
I Have It! What's Next?
Now that you have your new replacement college diploma, it's essential to protect it. Here are some tips on how to do so:
- Store your diploma in a safe place, preferably in a fireproof and watertight container.
- Make copies of your diploma and store them in different places. This will provide an extra layer of security in case you lose your original diploma.
- Don't laminate your diploma. This can damage the document over time and make it difficult to replace if necessary.
- Frame it in a protective covering to keep it safe from damage.
- Avoid exposing your diploma to direct sunlight or extreme heat and humidity, as this can cause it to fade over time.
Conclusion
People often wonder what they should do if they lose their college diplomas. Even though it may be a tedious process, there are things you can do to get a replacement. This process could take weeks or months, but in the end, you will have that old-school feeling again! Don't forget about notarizing the new document (only do so if needed by your institution's policies). Otherwise, enjoy having it on display!
Hopefully, this article has helped you figure out what to do if you've lost your college diploma. If not, we can help! Let us know, and our team of experts at Same Day Diplomas will be happy to assist you in replacing your lost diploma. We have it covered, so give us a text at (917)-746-5875 or fill out our contact form with any questions you may have on how best to replace your diploma!
Sources:
https://www.kten.com/story/40992345/what-to-do-if-youve-lost-your-college-diploma
https://www.universityframes.com/blog/what-to-do-when-your-college-diploma-is-lost
https://salarship.com/article/lost-college-diploma/
https://medium.com/@tombiehn.frames/what-should-you-do-when-your-college-diploma-is-lost-cc1e1c15c86