How to Obtain a Copy of My Diploma

Replacing a lost or misplaced high school or college diploma is not difficult, but you're going to have to contact your school, provide the paperwork and pay a fee--sometimes a large one--to get a replacement. It's important to note that you will not get a copy of your diploma because a copy is not official. The diploma you receive will be a replacement document that will contain the appropriate signatures and the seal of the educational institution you attended.

Instructions

1. Check your high school or college website for contact information. Request diploma replacement information through the website, if possible. Otherwise call the high school office or college registrar's office and ask how to request a replacement diploma. If your high school office advises you to call your state's board of education, ask for contact information.

2. Fill out the diploma replacement request form that will be required. If you can't download the form from a website, the school will mail it to you. Be prepared to provide your date of graduation and social security number. For a college diploma, you'll need to supply your degree (Bachelor of Science, Master of Arts, Associates degree) and your major course of study (chemistry, education, English). For a large university, include the school from which you graduated (engineering, science, music).

3. Complete an affidavit, if the school requires it, verifying why you need a replacement diploma. If your name has changed since graduation, you will be required to submit a notarized affidavit confirming the name change. Submit the affidavit with the diploma replacement request form.

4. Pay the replacement fee, which can range from $10 to $80.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you need a diploma rather than a transcript of your grades. If you are applying for a job or to a college, a transcript may be all that is required.

• You may be able to save some money if you can pick up the replacement diploma rather than have the school mail it to you.

References

• Ohio University: How Do I Get a Copy of My Diploma or a Replacement Diploma?
• New York Institute of Technology: Ask NYIT: How Do I Request a Diploma or a Copy of My Diploma?