California Diploma / Degree Apostille
Complete 2026 guide to obtaining and apostilling a California diploma or degree. Learn how to get your educational documents notarized by your university registrar, verify accreditation, and submit to the Secretary of State for international recognition (often for work or student visas).
What is a Notarized Diploma or Degree?
A notarized California diploma or degree is an official educational document authenticated by a notary public, confirming that the document was issued by an accredited institution. This notarization is required before the California Secretary of State can issue an apostille.
✅ Original or Certified Copy
Required for Apostille and international recognition.
- • Issued by university registrar
- • Bears official school seal
- • Must be accredited
- • Notarized by registrar or external notary
ℹ️ Unofficial Transcript/Copy
For personal records only. NOT valid for Apostille.
- • Printed from student portal
- • Stamped "UNOFFICIAL"
- • Cannot be notarized
- • Not accepted internationally
Accreditation Requirements
Your educational institution must be accredited for the Secretary of State to accept your diploma for apostille. California institutions are typically accredited by:
- • WSCUC (Universities & Colleges)
- • ACCJC (Community Colleges)
- • ACS WASC (High Schools)
Verify at WSCUC Directory or CHEA.org.
Where to Order (3 Options)
A) University Registrar (Recommended)
Contact your university's Office of the Registrar directly. Many CA universities offer notarization services for apostille.
B) Mobile Notary Service
If your registrar doesn't offer notarization, arrange for a CA-licensed notary to visit the registrar's office. The registrar signs a letter certifying authenticity, and the notary notarizes that signature.
C) Custodian Affidavit (Alternative)
For copies only: You sign a sworn statement before a notary affirming the copy is true. Verify acceptance with destination country first.
Required Documents & Process
Contact registrar for official diploma/transcripts and request notarization. Costs vary ($5-175 depending on document type).
Either the registrar issues a notarized document directly, or they sign a certification letter which is then notarized.
Ensure document has CA notary seal, signature, commission number, and proper notarial certificate (acknowledgment or jurat).
Fees & Processing Times
| Service | Fee (Approx) | Time |
|---|---|---|
| University Notarization | $15 - $40 | 5-14 Days |
| Mobile Notary | $75 - $150 | 3-7 Days |
| Replacement Diploma | $25 - $175 | 6-10 Weeks |
How to Apostille Your Diploma
Once notarized, follow these steps:
- Verify Document: Ensure original notarized document with CA notary seal.
- Complete Cover Sheet: Download Apostille Request Form.
- Payment: $20 per document check/money order to "Secretary of State".
- Submit: Mail to Sacramento or visit in-person (Sacramento/LA).
Mailing Address:
Notary Public Section
P.O. Box 942877
Sacramento, CA
94277-0001
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apostille a photocopy of my diploma?
No. The California Secretary of State requires an original notarized document. However, you can have a notary create a certified copy using a custodian affidavit, where you swear the copy is accurate.
What if my university doesn't offer notarization?
You have two options: 1. Hire a mobile notary to visit the registrar's office. 2. Use the custodian affidavit method (verify acceptance with receiving country first).
Do I need my original diploma or can I order a replacement?
Either works. Many universities will issue a new diploma specifically for apostille purposes. You can keep your original diploma and use the replacement for authentication.
How long is an apostille valid?
Apostilles don't expire, but some countries may require documents issued within a certain timeframe (commonly 3-6 months). Check with your destination authority.
"Always order at least 2-3 notarized copies of your diploma and transcripts before submitting for apostille. Many international processes require multiple original apostilled documents, and re-ordering can add weeks to your timeline."