A diploma is a document that is awarded to a student upon the completion of a course of study or program of education. It serves as an official recognition of the recipient’s academic achievements and is often proudly displayed as a symbol of their hard work and dedication. One aspect of a diploma that may vary is its size.
University diplomas come in a variety of sizes, with 8.5×11-inch versions for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Special degrees such as Doctor of Medicine and Doctor of Dental Surgery diplomas measure 11×14 inches. The size of a minor certificate is typically 6 inches by 8 inches.
In this article, we will explore the various sizes that diplomas can come in and discuss the factors that may influence the size of a diploma.
What Are The Standard Sizes Of Diplomas?
The dimensions of a diploma may differ depending on the type of diploma awarded. The size can range from small enough to fit in your wallet, to large enough to hang on your wall. As I mentioned above, diplomas are typically sized 8.5 x 11 inches, the same size as a standard letter. However, some diplomas — such as those for medicine and law — may be a non-standard size of 11 x 14 inches.
The size of your diploma can vary depending on the university you attend.
- 11 × 14 inches: This is one of the most common sizes for diplomas. It provides a larger format that allows for more elaborate designs and additional information.
- 8.5 × 11 inches: This size is the standard letter size, commonly used for documents and certificates. It is a popular choice for diplomas due to its compatibility with standard printers and frames.
- 7.5 × 9.5 inches: This size is slightly smaller and more compact compared to the letter size. It is often used for diplomas awarded by specialized institutions or for certain types of certifications.
- 12 × 15 inches: This larger size is typically used for more prestigious diplomas, such as those awarded by universities or higher education institutions. It offers a grander presentation and allows for more detailed designs.
- 11.75 × 16 inches: This size is slightly larger than the standard 11 × 14 inches and provides a wider canvas for diploma designs. It offers a unique format that can accommodate additional information or decorative elements.
- 14 × 11 inches: This size is similar to the 11 × 14 inches but in landscape orientation. It provides a wider layout that can be suitable for certain types of diplomas, particularly those with landscape-oriented designs.
If you choose to pursue a minor, it will not be reflected on a separate diploma. Instead, the details of your minor will be noted on your major degree. Your main diploma will likely include a line that recognizes your accomplishments.
However, some universities and high schools may also issue you a certificate or diploma that measures 6 x 8 inches or letter paper (8.5 x 11 inches) to commemorate your hard work. To ensure you know the exact size of your diploma, it is important to measure it. This will give you an accurate reading and help you make sure your diploma is the size you need.
Related: Standard Clipboard Size
Should I Frame My Diploma?
There is no requirement to frame your diploma, but many people choose to do so in order to protect and display their documents. A framed diploma can make a beautiful addition to your home or office, and it can also help to preserve the diploma for future generations. If you decide to frame your diploma, it’s important to choose a frame that is appropriately sized and of good quality.
You’ll want to measure your diploma and choose a frame that is slightly larger in order to allow for proper fitting and to prevent the diploma from being damaged by the frame. It’s also a good idea to use acid-free matting and UV-protective glass to help protect the diploma from fading or discoloration. If you are not sure how to frame your diploma, you can ask a professional framing service for assistance.
What Is The Right Way To Measure A Diploma?
Measuring a diploma is a simple process that can be done with a standard tape measure or ruler. To measure the length of a diploma, place the tape measure or ruler along one of the long edges of the diploma and measure from one end to the other. To measure the width of the diploma, place the tape measure or ruler along one of the short edges of the diploma and measure from one end to the other.
Alternatively, you can use a flexible tape measure to wrap around the edges of the diploma to get the overall length and width. Make sure to measure the diploma in inches, as this is the standard unit of measurement used for diploma sizes in the United States.
How Big Should a Diploma Frame Be?
The size frame you need for a college diploma will depend on the size of the diploma itself. In general, it’s a good idea to choose a frame that is slightly larger than the diploma in order to allow for proper fitting and to prevent the diploma from being damaged by the frame. If you are not sure what size frame to use, you can measure your diploma and then add a few inches to the length and width to determine the appropriate frame size. For example, if your diploma measures 11 inches by 14 inches, you might choose a frame that is 16 inches by 20 inches or 18 inches by 22 inches.
What Is The Material Used To Print Diplomas?
Diplomas are typically printed on high-quality paper that is durable and able to withstand handling and display. The exact type of paper used can vary, but common options include bond paper, parchment paper, and specialty diploma paper. Bond paper is a type of writing paper that is made from wood pulp and is known for its strength and durability. Parchment paper is a type of paper that is made from animal skin, typically sheepskin or goatskin, and is known for its distinctive texture and appearance. Specialty diploma paper is a type of paper that is specifically designed for printing diplomas and is often made from high-quality, acid-free paper that is resistant to fading and discoloration. Regardless of the type of paper used, it’s important to handle your diploma with care in order to prevent damage and ensure that it lasts for years to come.
Related: Standard Card Envelope Sizes
How Should You Store Your Diploma?
There is no one “correct” place to put your diploma, as it largely depends on your personal preferences and circumstances. Some people choose to display their diplomas in their homes or office as a symbol of their academic achievements and as a source of pride.
If you decide to display your diploma, you might consider placing it in a frame and hanging it on a wall, or you might place it on a desk or shelf. It’s important to choose a location where the diploma will be protected from damage and will not be subjected to extremes of temperature or humidity, as these can cause the diploma to deteriorate over time. If you are not comfortable displaying your diploma, you might consider storing it in a safe place, such as a lock box or a fireproof safe, to protect it from accidental damage.
FAQs
Are all diploma certificates the same size?
No, diploma certificates aren’t all the same size. A diploma certificate’s size depends on the educational organization or institution that’s issuing it. Different countries, universities, and schools have their own standard diploma sizes, but there are some common diploma sizes.
What is the standard diploma size in CM?
Diploma sizes vary, but a common size is approximately 21.6cm by 27.9cm, equivalent to 8.5in by 11in. This size is often called “letter size” in many countries.
How do you hang diplomas of different sizes?
You have a few options when hanging diplomas of different sizes. Here’s what you can do:
You can create a neat and organized display by aligning the top or bottom edges of the frames if you have multiple diplomas of different sizes.
If your diplomas are different sizes, you can use mats or mounting boards to give them a uniform appearance. With larger mat boards cut to fit the largest diploma, you can make sure all diplomas are framed the same size, no matter how big they are.
What size is an associate’s degree?
The size of an associate’s degree typically is the same as a standard diploma, which is approximately 21.6 cm by 27.9 cm (8.5 inches by 11 inches).