Diploma Cover Size & Fit Guide
Diploma Cover Size & Fit Guide
From kindergarten to PhD — find the perfect cover for any certificate or diploma.
📏 How to Measure Your Diploma
Getting the right size is easy. Just follow these simple steps:
- Use a ruler or tape measure
- Measure the width of the paper (left to right)
- Measure the height of the paper (top to bottom)
⚠️ Important: Only measure the paper itself — do NOT measure the frame, matting, or any decorative border. The cover should always be slightly larger than your diploma.
🎒 Children's Certificates (Pre-K to High School)
From preschool diplomas to high school graduation certificates — we have covers for every milestone.
Standard Sizes for Children's Certificates
| Certificate Type | Typical Size | Recommended Cover Size |
|---|---|---|
| Preschool / Kindergarten | 8" x 10" | 8.5" x 11" |
| Elementary School | 8.5" x 11" | 9" x 12" |
| Middle School | 8.5" x 11" | 9" x 12" |
| High School Diploma | 8.5" x 11" or 11" x 14" | 9" x 12" or 11.5" x 14.5" |
💡 Tip: Most U.S. high school diplomas are 8.5" x 11". However, some private schools or specialized programs use 11" x 14". When in doubt, measure the paper or check with your school.
🎓 Adult Certificates (College to PhD)
For college degrees, professional certifications, and advanced academic achievements.
Standard Sizes for Adult Certificates
| Certificate Type | Typical Size | Recommended Cover Size | Common For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 8.5" x 11" | 9" x 12" | Community colleges |
| Bachelor's Degree | 8.5" x 11" or 11" x 14" | 9" x 12" or 11.5" x 14.5" | Most U.S. universities |
| Master's Degree | 11" x 14" | 11.5" x 14.5" | Graduate schools |
| Doctoral / PhD | 11" x 14" | 11.5" x 14.5" | PhD, EdD, MD, JD |
| Law Degree (JD) | 11" x 14" | 11.5" x 14.5" | Law schools |
| Medical Degree (MD) | 11" x 14" | 11.5" x 14.5" | Medical schools |
Used by many state universities, online programs, and community colleges. Requires a 9" x 12" cover.
Used by traditional universities, Ivy League schools, graduate programs, and professional degrees. Requires an 11.5" x 14.5" cover.
📄 Certificate Paper Types
Not all certificates are printed on the same paper. Understanding your paper type helps ensure the best fit and presentation.
Crisp, bright, and professional. Most common for modern diplomas and certificates. Fits easily in standard covers with corner holders.
Traditional, elegant, cream-colored paper with a textured feel. Often thicker than standard paper. May require mounting strips instead of corner holders.
📌 Note: If your certificate is printed on thick parchment paper, has embossed seals, or is laminated, we recommend using a mounting strip instead of corner holders for a secure fit.
📁 Inside Your Diploma Cover
Clear, acid-free pockets that hold each corner of your diploma. Best for most standard diplomas on regular paper.
An adhesive strip across the top edge. Best for thicker certificates, parchment paper, or documents with embossed seals.
🔒 All covers use acid-free, archival-safe materials that won't damage your diploma over time.
✅ Quick Fit Check
After placing your diploma in the cover, check these three things:
- ✓ Cover closes flat without bulging
- ✓ All four corners sit inside holders or under the strip
- ✓ No part of the diploma is folded or bent
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which size to order?
Measure your diploma paper (not the frame). If it's 8.5" x 11", order a 9" x 12" cover. If it's 11" x 14", order an 11.5" x 14.5" cover. For children's certificates (8" x 10"), order an 8.5" x 11" cover.
What size cover do I need for a high school diploma?
Most U.S. high school diplomas are 8.5" x 11" and fit a 9" x 12" cover. However, some private schools use 11" x 14". Measure your diploma to be sure.
Do you sell covers for law school or medical school diplomas?
Yes! Most law and medical school diplomas are 11" x 14" and fit our 11.5" x 14.5" covers.
What if my diploma is a custom size?
We can make custom-sized covers. Contact us with your exact measurements for a quote.
Can I use an 8.5" x 11" cover for an 11" x 14" diploma?
No — the diploma will not fit. Always choose a cover that is slightly larger than your diploma paper.
What if I order the wrong size?
For non-personalized covers, we accept returns within 30 days. Personalized covers (with embossing or foil stamping) are final sale — so please measure carefully before ordering.
What's the difference between corner holders and a mounting strip?
Corner holders work best for standard diplomas on regular paper. Mounting strips are better for thicker parchment paper, certificates with embossed seals, or laminated documents.
📸 Still Not Sure?
Take a photo of your diploma next to a ruler and send it to us. We'll tell you exactly which cover fits — usually within a few hours.
📍 Proudly based in New Jersey — serving schools, universities, and graduates across the United States since 2013.