I’ve Lost My University Diploma! What Next Steps Can I Take?

If you have lost your university diploma and are thinking about what to do next? There are two main solutions available. The first is the official route through your university, which provides a valid replacement but often requires forms, fees sometimes as high as $600, and waiting time as the diplomas are generally printed one or twice a year. The second option is to obtain a novelty diploma, which serves as a backup, providing reassurance of having an extra copy without risking the original. This guide will explain both approaches so you can replace your official document while also exploring how to keep a secure copy for the future.

How to Apply for an Original Copy from the University?

1. Contact the Registrar’s Office

The first step is to reach out to your university’s registrar or records office. In most U.S. universities, this office handles all the academic records and diploma issuance. You can usually find detailed instructions on the university’s official website under “Alumni Services” or “Records.” Some schools even provide an online request form, while others require a written application.

2. Complete the Replacement Diploma Request Form

Universities often require you to fill out a formal request form. This form asks for details such as your full legal name (including any name changes), date of graduation, degree earned, and student ID or Social Security number for verification. Some universities may allow notarized affidavits if name verification is required.

3. Provide Proper Identification

To prevent fraud or misuse of official documents, universities will ask for government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license or passport. In some cases, notarized copies of these documents may be required. This ensures that only the rightful owner can request a replacement.

4. Pay the Applicable Fee

Generally, the replacement diplomas are not free. The fees depend on the institution and usually are between $300-600. 

5. Choose the Delivery Method

Universities often provide standard and expedited shipping options. If you live overseas, additional mailing charges will apply. You can also get digital diploma services, as offered by some schools, that allow you to access a certified PDF copy while you wait for the printed one to come.

6. Allow Processing Time

Processing times may vary by institution. Some universities take 2–6 weeks, while others may only print their diplomas once or twice a year. That’s why it’s advisable to plan or inform them prior if you need your diploma for a job application, visa, or licensing exam. 

7. Keep in Mind University Policies

Certain institutions may have unique restrictions. For example, some will not issue replacements if the original diploma is still in your possession. Others may indicate “Replacement” or “Duplicate” on the new copy for record-keeping purposes. So make sure to review your university’s guidelines carefully before submitting a request. 

An Alternative Option: Get a Novelty Diploma for Backup or Display

Some students may also want an additional copy for novelty purposes. This could be displayed at home while keeping the original one stored, or kept to be given as a gift. In such cases, you can explore novelty diploma makers. Still, it’s important to remember these copies do not replace the official document and cannot be used for employment, immigration, or educational verification.

Here are the general steps if you’re considering a novelty diploma copy:

Step 1: Choose a Reputable Diploma Maker

Choose a professional diploma maker that specializes in novelty or replacement-style documents. One such great option is Diploma Makers, a brand trusted by students for their high-quality novelty and replacement-style documents. They provide professional designs with proper attention to every detail, customizable layouts, and realistic features. Diploma Makers stands out for its excellent customer reviews. And most importantly, they clearly mention that all these products are for entertainment or novelty purposes only, which ensures buyers understand their proper use.

Step 2: Provide Your Academic Details

To get a realistic novelty copy, you will need to provide:

• Your university name
• The type of degree  (e.g., Bachelor of Arts, Master of Science, etc.
• Graduation year
• Your name (as you want it displayed on the diploma)

Step 3: Select Design and Customization Options

Most novelty diploma makers offer the options of multiple templates that resemble U.S. university diploma styles. You can choose font, layout, and decorative elements. Some even allow you to upload your university’s crest or emblem for a closer look. 

Step 4: Place Your Order and Confirm Details

After giving your customization preferences, review all the details carefully. Once confirmed, submit your order. At this step, you will come across the price, which may vary depending on factors such as quality, embossing, and shipping.

Step 5: Receive and Use Responsibly

Once shipped, your novelty diploma can serve as a fun display piece or a backup to showcase at home while you store your official version in a safe location. Remember, novelty diplomas are not official documents and should not be misused for valid credentials in any formal or legal setting.

Conclusion 

By now, you must have understood that if you need a diploma for legal or academic purposes.

For other situations, such as displaying your achievement at home, keeping a backup copy etc., you can opt for a high-quality novelty diploma from trusted providers like Diploma Makers.