How to Create a High School Diploma

When one thinks of a diploma, the traditional image of a scroll that has been rolled up and fastened with a ribbon comes to mind. But in reality, a high school diploma would more likely be printed on a piece of 8" x 6" cardstock paper, which allows it to be inserted into a fabric covered diploma frame. If your diploma has been damaged, and you'd like to replicate one for display, you can do so by using a computer, word processor and inkjet printer.

Things You'll Need

• Computer with word processor and printer
• Cardstock printer paper
• Paper cutter

Instructions

1. 

   Create a new word processing document and set the paper width to 8 inches and the height to 6 inches.

2. 

   Set the margins for 1/2 inch on all sides.

3. 

   Choose the font "Diploma". Or use a similar font, such as New England.

4. 

   Set the alignment to center the text.

5. 

   Type the name of the school on the first line. It should be 36 point font. If the school name is longer, and wraps around to a second line, make the font smaller so it falls on one line.

6. 

   Type "This Certifies that" on the next line in 20 point font. There should be a 20 point line spacing between the name of the school and this line.

7. 

   Type the name of the person to whom the diploma is supposed to be issued. This should be 26 point, bold font.

8. 

   Type "Has completed the Course of Study prescribed by the Board of Education of the (name of school district) for graduation from this School and is therefore granted this" in 20 point font. This text should be on three lines.

9. 

   Type "Diploma" on the next line, in 28 point font.

10. Type "Given at (city), (state), this (day of month) day of (month), in the year of our Lord (year)". The words should be written out, and not written as digits. The text should be on 3 lines, at 14 points. Below the text include three equal-length signature lines.

11. Highlight the text typed in step 10.

12. Format that area into two columns.

13. Place a cursor at the first letter of the lines formatted in step 12, and hit return, until all six lines are on the right side of the document.

14. Look at the document. You will now need to find a seal to place in the blank area. Some schools use a punch seal, where the area is stamped, leaving an impression on the diploma. Other schools use state seals.

15. Insert the seal in the blank area. If you don't have a copy of your state's seal, you can find one online, and copy it to your computer and insert it onto the document. Position it on the left side. Print the diploma and trim the edges to make an 8" x 6" document. The signature lines are typically for the signatures of the school principal, superintendent of schools and school board president.