FAQ

📍 New Jersey — Since 2013

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about diploma covers, customization, sizing, and ordering.

General Questions

What is a diploma cover and why do I need one?+

A diploma cover is a protective case designed to hold and display your diploma or degree certificate. While your diploma is a valuable document, it's often printed on thin paper. A cover provides rigid protection from bends, tears, dust, and sunlight. More importantly, it transforms your certificate into a formal, presentable keepsake that honors your academic achievement for display or safe storage.

Are your diploma covers compatible with all universities?+

Our covers are designed to fit standard document sizes, making them compatible with the vast majority of colleges and universities. However, to ensure a perfect fit, we recommend confirming your diploma's dimensions. Some institutions use unique or custom sizes, so it's always best to measure your diploma or verify its dimensions with your registrar's office before ordering. Visit our Size & Fit Guide for detailed instructions.

Do you offer covers for high school diplomas?+

Yes! We offer diploma covers for high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools. Most high school diplomas in the U.S. are either 8.5" x 11" or 11" x 14". We also offer custom sizing and school color matching. Many schools order in bulk for their graduating classes — contact us for special pricing.

What is your typical production time?+

Production time varies depending on the complexity of the order:

  • Standard, non-personalized covers: 3-5 business days to ship
  • Personalized orders (foil stamping, embossing): 7-12 business days
  • Custom printed diplomas (flat print): Approximately 2 weeks
  • Raised print (thermography) diplomas: 2-3 weeks, minimum 200 units

During peak graduation seasons (April-June), processing times may be longer. We recommend ordering early.

Do you ship internationally?+

Yes, we ship worldwide from our New Jersey facility. International shipping times and costs vary by destination. Please note that customs duties, taxes, and import fees are the responsibility of the buyer. Contact us for a shipping quote to your country.

Sizing & Fit

How do I measure my diploma to find the right cover size?+

Measuring your diploma is easy:

  1. Use a ruler or tape measure
  2. Measure the width of the paper (left to right)
  3. Measure the height of the paper (top to bottom)

Important: Do NOT measure the frame or matting — only measure the paper itself. The cover should always be slightly larger than your diploma. Visit our Size & Fit Guide for a complete size chart.

What are the most common diploma sizes?+

The most common diploma sizes in the U.S. are:

  • 8.5" x 11" – Most U.S. colleges, online universities, community colleges
  • 11" x 14" – Traditional universities, graduate degrees, law/medical schools
  • 8" x 10" – Older diplomas, some associate degrees
  • 9" x 12" – Less common, some professional programs

When in doubt, measure your diploma or check with your registrar's office.

What if my diploma is a weird or custom size?+

Some universities (especially older or highly traditional ones) use custom sizes. If your diploma doesn't match standard sizes, don't worry — we offer custom-sized covers. Contact us with your exact measurements, and we'll create a cover that fits perfectly. Additional fees may apply for custom sizing.

What is the difference between corner holders and mounting strips?+

Both are acid-free, archival-safe methods to secure your diploma:

  • Corner holders: Clear, acid-free pockets for each corner. Best for most standard diplomas.
  • Mounting strip: An adhesive strip across the top edge. Best for thicker or slightly oversized certificates.

All our covers use archival-safe materials that won't damage your diploma over time.

Customization

Can I get my university's name, seal, or my name embossed on the cover?+

Yes! We offer a variety of personalization options. You can have your university's name, your full name, your degree, or a combination embossed in gold, silver, or blind (no color) foil. For university seals, check our "Custom Emblems" section — we have a library of official seals available. If you don't see yours, you can upload a vector file or a high-resolution image for a custom order. Custom dies may incur a one-time setup fee.

What is the difference between foil stamping and engraving?+

Foil stamping uses heat and pressure to apply a thin, metallic foil (like gold or silver) onto the cover's surface, creating a crisp, elegant finish. Engraving (or debossing) creates a depressed, indented image without any color. We can also combine these methods, such as debossing the name and foil stamping the seal.

Do you provide proofs for custom orders?+

Yes, proofs are provided for fully customized diplomas or certificate covers. You receive one (1) revision included. Additional proofs incur a $10 fee per revision. Please note that color variations may occur between digital proofs and final printed products due to different screen calibrations and material textures.

Can I cancel or change my custom order after production has begun?+

No. All custom-made products are final sale. Returns, exchanges, or cancellations will not be accepted once production has begun. This is why we strongly recommend reviewing all customization details carefully before confirming your order. Please double-check spelling, grammar, sizing, colors, and artwork before submission.

Do you offer rush production for custom orders?+

Yes, we offer rush production for an additional fee. Rush services can shorten custom production from 4-6 weeks to as fast as 5-7 business days depending on complexity. Please contact us before placing your order to discuss your deadline and rush fees. Same-day shipping is also available for in-stock items — call us by 1 PM ET.

Materials & Quality

What materials are your diploma covers made from?+

We take pride in using only high-quality, archival-safe materials:

  • Covers: Durable, genuine leather or premium leatherette with rigid, padded board
  • Inside lining: Linen or silk lining
  • Mounting: Acid-free corner holders or mounting strips
  • Eco-friendly options: Environmentally friendly leather available
  • Woven patterns: Custom woven textures and designs
Will the cover protect my diploma from fading or damage?+

While the cover provides excellent physical protection from bending, dust, and handling, it is not a substitute for archival storage. For maximum long-term protection, we recommend:

  • Storing in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
  • Using acid-free document sleeves inside the cover
  • Avoiding extreme temperatures and humidity

Ordering & Payment

What payment methods do you accept?+

We accept all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover), PayPal, and Shopify Payments. For bulk and wholesale orders, we also accept purchase orders from verified institutions. Contact us for net terms.

Do you offer discounts for bulk orders?+

Yes! We specialize in bulk orders for schools, universities, and organizations. We offer significant volume discounts, dedicated account management, and can match your institution's branding requirements. Contact our corporate sales team for a custom quote based on your quantity and specifications.

I made a mistake on my personalization text. Can I change it after placing my order?+

Please contact us immediately. If your order has not yet entered the production queue, we may be able to change it. Once production has begun — especially after a custom foil die has been created — we cannot make changes. We strongly recommend double-checking all personalization details carefully before confirming your order.

Shipping & Delivery

What are your shipping options and delivery times?+

We offer multiple shipping options:

  • USPS Ground / Priority: 5-7 business days (most affordable)
  • FedEx 2Day®: 2 business days — additional carrier fee
  • FedEx Priority Overnight®: Next business day — additional carrier fee

Delivery times are estimates and start after the order has shipped (not after order placement). Weekends and holidays may add 1-2 days.

How can I track my order?+

Once your order ships, you will receive an email with a tracking number. You can also track your order directly on our website using the "Track My Order" tool. Please allow up to 24 hours for tracking information to update after shipping.

Do you offer same-day shipping?+

Yes, for in-stock, non-personalized covers. Call us by 1 PM ET to request same-day dispatch. Additional handling fees apply. For rush production on custom items, please contact us to discuss your timeline.

Returns, Exchanges & Care

What is your return policy?+

Stock items: Returns or exchanges accepted within 30 days. Items must be unused and in original condition. A 15% restocking fee applies to opened merchandise. Customers are responsible for return shipping costs.

Custom orders: All custom-made products are final sale. Returns, exchanges, or cancellations are not accepted once production begins.

Please inspect your order immediately upon delivery. Any shortages, damages, or order errors must be reported within 5 business days of receipt.

How do I care for my diploma cover?+

To keep your diploma cover looking its best:

  • Wipe with a soft, dry cloth
  • Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, heat, and humidity
  • Do not use harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners
  • Store upright in a cool, dry place
  • For leather covers, occasional conditioning may help maintain appearance

Bulk & Wholesale Orders

What is the minimum order for bulk pricing?+

Bulk pricing is available for orders of 50+ units. For custom printed diplomas, the minimum order is 10 units for flat print and 200 units for raised print (thermography). Contact us for a custom quote based on your specific needs.

Do you offer wholesale programs for distributors?+

Yes! We are always looking for strong partnerships with distributors worldwide. We have developed excellent wholesale programs designed to maximize profits with high-quality training and marketing materials. Contact our wholesale team at sales@diplomacovercentral.com to learn more.

Can you match my school's specific colors?+

Absolutely! We offer custom color matching for school colors, logos, and seals. Provide us with your school's Pantone codes or a physical sample, and we'll match it precisely. Custom color matching may require a minimum order quantity and additional setup fees.

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