This page provides essential information about the contents of your Washington University in St Louis diploma, with clear instructions for ordering a replacement diploma. Explore the details here to manage your diploma needs efficiently.

The Office of the University Registrar begins placing diploma orders immediately after degree conferral.

View our video tutorial for address formatting examples and details to manage your diploma shipment expectations.

For additional information please contact Diploma Services.

About Your Diploma

Each diploma is an original document, 8.5″ x 11″ in size. It is signed by the administration of Washington University and contains an embossed seal. It lists the student’s name, the official title of the degree, and the degree date. Only official degree titles will appear on diplomas. Your dean’s office should be able to provide you with information on your correct degree title.

Diplomas for Legum Magistri, Juris Scientiae Doctoris and Medicinae Doctoris are written fully in Latin. Diplomas for the Juris Doctor were previously written in Latin until 2021 but are now written in English. Diplomas for Artium Baccalaurei, Artium Magistri, and Philosophiae Doctoris are written in English with a Latin degree title. All other Washington University degrees and diplomas are written in English. English translations of fully Latin diplomas are available online and upon request. Latin diplomas cannot be reissued in English.

While the university considers the diploma to be a ceremonial document, graduates may request that a preferred first and middle name be used on their diploma and in the Commencement Program. Be advised that in some situations the diploma may be used as a legal document and the name appearing on the diploma may need to match other legal documents in the student’s possession.

Students may check their name of record any time on WebSTAC. If your legal name is incorrect, you must submit a request for name change with the Office of the University Registrar.

Replacement Diploma

Washington University issues one original diploma. The Office of the University Registrar does not retain copies of diplomas. The body of the replacement diploma will be the same as the original except that the four signatures will be of the current officers and Replacement Diploma will be stamped on the lower left corner.

Ordering a Replacement Diploma

Electronic and paper diplomas are available for replacement orders. Download the Replacement Request Form (PDF) and mail it, along with payment, to the Office of the University Registrar.  A handwritten signature must be on the form.

Our office cannot accept electronic payment. Checks may be mailed to our office or dropped off during normal business hours. We are located in the Women’s Building, lower level, Suite 010. International alumni who are no longer state-side may choose to e-deposit funds to a friend or family member who resides in the U.S., so they can issue a check payment on your behalf.

If you order an Electronic Credential:

  • Orders finalize in 14-21 business days.
  • Alumni receive an email from info@cecredentialtrust.com with an authorization link to access the e-diploma.
  • Once the e-diploma is authorized, and an account is registered, alumni will maintain access permanently. View this video to learn more about the CeDiD.

If you order a Paper Credential:

  • Orders finalize in 14-21 business days.
  • Domestic orders ship via USPS and take an additional 1-2 weeks to arrive. Alumni receive an email from info@cecredentialtrust.com with USPS tracking information.
  • International orders ship via FedEx and take up to an additional 4 weeks to arrive. Alumni receive an email with FedEx tracking information.