Receiving your diploma after convocation


Diplomas (degrees) are presented at convocation for students attending in person. If you do not register to attend, you will receive an email with instructions on how to receive your diploma, and you may choose from one of the following options:


Graduate with diploma in frame

Frequently asked questions

Can I track my diploma package?

Yes. Once your diploma package has left campus, you will receive an email with a tracking number for the shipping address you provided 

Can I have other documents included with the diploma courier?

At this time, convocation diplomas cannot be combined in a courier package with other documents (e.g., transcripts, duplicate diplomas, official letters, etc.) 

Can I include special delivery instructions in the courier address?

It is recommended that standard delivery addresses be used. Additional notes (e.g. second door down the alley) may not be recognized by domestic or international courier companies.  

Does my address need to be written in English? Can I include special characters in the address?

Addresses must be written in English and not include special characters in the font. 

How quickly will my diploma package arrive?

Requests are typically processed within five business days, plus delivery. Due to high shipping volumes and potential delays with courier services, Canada Post, and customs processing, the University cannot guarantee an exact delivery date. However, here are the estimated minimum delivery times:

  • Domestic courier service: At least two weeks.
  • International courier service: At least four weeks.

Once your diploma is with the courier company and you have received tracking information, the University cannot expedite the delivery or provide additional details. If you urgently need your diploma due to reasons like visa requirements and the estimated delivery time has passed, email askthecentre@uwaterloo.ca.

I received my diploma package but it is damaged. Can I get another?

If your diploma arrived damaged (i.e., bent, smudged, torn, ripped, or creased), we will replace it at no cost. To ensure that you receive only one original diploma, follow these steps: 

  1. Send an email to askthecentre@uwaterloo.ca

  1. Include two (2) pictures:  

  1. one of the damaged diploma as it arrived, 

  1. one of the diploma after you have destroyed it (i.e., torn into at least 6 pieces, with a clear tear through your name/degree title and the affix seal). 

  1. Don't forget to provide your name and your student identification number. 

Once received, we will print and resend another version to the same address. Note: Diplomas are reprinted only once a week, so there may be a delay before you receive the new one. 

If I don’t pick up my diploma or pay to have it couriered, how long will my diploma be held in The Centre?

Original diplomas are retained in the Office of the Registrar for two years following convocation, after which time they are destroyed, and you will be required to order a Replacement diploma at your expense. 

What should I do if I don't receive my diploma?

Once you pay to have your diploma couriered, you will receive a tracking number. If the tracking status shows that your package has been “delivered” but you have not received it, please wait one week. If you still do not receive your diploma after one week, contact askthecentre@uwaterloo.ca for further assistance.

Pick up your diploma in The Centre

Diplomas for graduates who do not attend convocation will be available in The Centre on the Wednesday following the last convocation ceremony. There is no fee for this option. 

  • If you choose to pick up your diploma yourself, be sure to bring a physical piece of government-issued photo identification (e.g., license, passport). 

  • If you are unable to pick up your diploma yourself, you may designate a person to pick it up on your behalf by completing the Authorize Third-Party Document Pick Up Form in advance. The person that you designate to pick up your diploma must bring a piece of government-issued photo identification (e.g., license, passport). 

  • The Centre is located on the first floor of Needles Hall South (NH), and is open from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.  


Courier Delivery

If you, or a designated person, are not available to pick up your diploma in person, you may pay to have your diploma couriered to you. Diplomas courier service for students who do not attend convocation will be available starting on the Wednesday following the last convocation ceremony. To have your diploma couriered: 

  1.  Log in with your WatIAM ID - Note, you must log in to WatIAM first before accessing the payment link below.  
  2. Enter a preferred email. 
  3. After you have logged in successfully, then you must click this link to submit your Diploma Courier Fee through Shopify. 

Fees: 

  • Courier, Ontario - $20 

  • Courier, Domestic (Canada) -$30 

  • Courier, United States - $40 

  • Courier, International - $60 

Note: By placing an online order, you confirm that you are the student listed, that your information is accurate, and that you authorize the University of Waterloo to process your request under the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA). 

If you are unable to use the University of Waterloo’s online diploma ordering service, email askthecentre@uwaterloo.ca