A recent survey found that about 35% of job openings require at least a Bachelor's degree while another 30% require at least an Associate's degree. What happens if the job you're applying to requires proof that you possess a college degree?
One of the easiest ways to provide quick proof of your college education is to show your diploma from college to your future employer. However, not all of us have our diplomas from college lying around the house.
The good news is that you can get a new copy of your diploma from college if you need it. The question is, how?
Read on to find out more about how to get a copy of your diploma from college and what to do in a pinch.
How to Get a Copy of Your Diploma from College
Each college or university provides specific instructions that you must follow to place a formal request for a copy of your diploma. In almost all cases, your first step is to head to the registrar's website for your college or university.
Once you're on the registrar's website, you may find a specific contact page or request form to fulfill your diploma order. If you can't locate this information, you can call or email the registrar, directly. Calling tends to result in faster results, but you may be placed on hold, especially if you're calling at a busy time.
In the meantime, let's talk about what most colleges or universities will require from you. First, they will want proof of your current address. You may need to scan copies of your driver's license or ID card as well as a copy of a recent utility bill.
Some colleges and universities may require further proof of identification. If they ask for a written request, make sure to include all of the information they ask for. This may include your date of birth, your Social Security number, your date of graduation, and the degree you earned.
Does It Cost Money to Order a Copy of Your Diploma from College?
In almost all cases, you will need to pay a fee to receive a copy of your diploma from college. This fee can range from $15-$60. Nowadays, you can usually pay this fee online with your credit card information, although some schools may require a check or money order.
How Long Will It Take to Receive a Copy of Your Diploma from College?
If you know that you need a copy of your diploma from college, act fast. You may be able to pay an additional fee to have the process expedited. However, this is not always the case--or you may not want to pay the additional fee.
Most colleges and universities do not have copies of diplomas from previous students on hand. That means that in addition to processing your request and mailing your diploma, they also have to put in their own request for an official reprint.
On average, it tends to take anywhere from three to six weeks to receive an official copy of your diploma from college.
What If Your College Is No Longer Open?
Believe it or not, colleges and universities can and do close. In fact, between 2016 and 2019, twenty private universities in America closed. What if you attended one of these schools?
Some closed schools will still provide contact information for prior students. If they don't, you'll want to contact the Department of Education in the state where you graduated from college. Each state DOE should maintain records of all of their college graduates and be able to provide you with a copy of your diploma.
When Can You Use a Replica Diploma Instead of the Real Deal?
It is possible to get a realistic replica of your college diploma. This may take less time and less money, which can come in handy when you're in a pinch. Let's talk about some of the scenarios in which a replica diploma is appropriate to use.
Boosting Your Status Around the Workplace
Maybe you're not applying for a job but instead, want to casually demonstrate your expertise to your coworkers. If you can't track down the real copy of your diploma, a replica will do just fine. Frame it and hang it in your office or cubicle to remind your coworkers that you possess useful training and expertise in your field.
Framing a Replica for Personal Use
Maybe you do have a copy of your college diploma hanging up at home and now you need to use it for an application. However, you're attached to your degree and enjoy seeing it every day! If this is the case, consider replacing your real diploma with a replica while you use your real diploma to get the job of your dreams.
Providing a Stand-In Diploma While You Wait for the Real Deal
Three to six weeks is a long time to wait, especially if you didn't know you would need to show a future employer your diploma. Go ahead and place your order for the real deal and use a replica in the meantime. While you don't want to lie about your credentials to an employer, there's nothing wrong with providing a replica for something you know you have.
Realistic Replica Diplomas are Our Speciality
As the job market becomes more competitive, a higher percentage of employers require proof that applicants have an Associate's or Bachelor's degree. Sometimes, getting a copy of your diploma from college takes more time than you can spare. Our goal is to provide you with realistic replica diplomas to display at home or in the office.
Do you want to find out more about our process? Are you ready to place your own order? Contact us today and let us know how we can be of help.