Nearly four million people graduate from high school each year — and that translates into nearly four million paper diplomas. But when a graduate loses that milestone document, they face a setback with a future job or educational application. Are you wondering, “Should I replace my lost high school diploma?”
Yes, you should! Read on to learn about five things you should know about replacing a lost high school diploma.
1. Check with Your High School
For starters, reach out to your high school’s administration office. Explain that you’ve lost or damaged your high school diploma and need a new one for applications. They’ll instruct you on the specific protocol to obtain a replacement diploma.
For instance, you may need to submit a request in writing with a signature. Further, you may need to show a driver’s license or another ID when making an in-person request. Check to see if you need to submit a school-specific request form, too.
2. Contact a District Office
Did your high school close? You may think you’re out of luck, but your next best bet is to talk to the school district office. The office may have taken over the management of records from the shuttered school.
Specifically, reach out to the superintendent’s office first. They may be able to reach into older record databases and produce a new copy of your diploma.
3. Talk with Your State Department of Education
You can check with your state’s department of education, too, if you strike out with your district. They should be able to direct you to a replacement or another solution that will validate your academic achievement.
You’ll want to ensure that any replacement copy you receive still shows the school’s official seal. And check to see that the dates and names are correct.
4. Replace a Lost Diploma Online
You can seek out a replica diploma online, too. Fake diplomas offer an opportunity to input your graduation information into a template and print it out.
Find a design that mimics what your old diploma may have looked like — or opt for something different. With a reputable company, you’ll receive a diploma that looks professional.
5. Get a New Diploma Quickly
Are you wondering, “Do I need my high school diploma?” The answer is a definite yes. At the realization that your diploma is missing, seek out a new one!
You might be required to show one if you’re interviewing for a job that requires one. If you’re applying to college, you’ll need proof that you’ve graduated from high school. Or, if you’re hoping to study abroad, a program might want to see graduation evidence during the selection process.
Replace a Lost High School Diploma
A lost high school diploma can be a barrier to future success. Fortunately, there are ways to retrieve or generate a new one. Check with your high school office first, but then move on to state or online resources to replace a lost high school diploma.
Find more tips to keep your goals on track. Check back for new articles soon!
