Details about Qualification Certificates, including what they’re made from, instructions for getting a replacement and advice on protection, framing and copies.
A qualification certificate states that you have been awarded your qualification by the University Council. It is a legal document authenticated by the Common Seal of the University.
Your certificate will be presented to you at your graduation ceremony. If you graduate in absentia, it will be posted to you or you can collect it from the Graduation Office.
If you have completed the requirements for your qualification but have yet to graduate, you can request your academic transcript.
Certificates ordered or awarded from January 2020 will include the new ceremonial crest.The legal name of the University remains Victoria University of Wellington.
Replacement certificates
You can order a replacement if you have legally changed your name or your original certificate has been lost, stolen, destroyed or damaged.
The University does not issue multiple copies of qualification certificates. If you still have your certificate, send it back with the form so that a replacement can be issued.
If you don’t have your certificate, fill out the statutory declaration section of the form in the presence of a Justice of the Peace, or any other person authorised to make statutory declarations.
Timeframe
The processing time is usually 5 working days from when your application is received.
This timeframe does not include days when the University is closed or the days of graduation ceremonies.
Cost
$65 per qualification certificate.
You can make payments by bank transfer, Visa or Mastercard.
Digital certificates
From 1 July 2018, when you graduate with a qualification from Victoria University of Wellington, you’ll receive a free digital copy of your certificate through the myeQuals platform. This digital document is issued once completion of your study has been verified by your Faculty office.
Read about accessing your certificate, document security and how to share certificates on the myeQuals page.
If you completed your qualification before July 2018, you can apply for a digital certificate using the digital graduation certificate application form.
Certified copies
Before you frame your certificate, we recommend that you make photocopies for your CV and have them signed by a Justice of the Peace, Barrister or Solicitor.
If you plan to work overseas be aware that employers may ask to see the original.
Goatskin parchment
Qualification Certificates are printed on goatskin parchment. The University uses an imitation of actual goatskin made with a high cotton content. It is guaranteed to last 500 years.
Animal lovers need not worry—no goats will be harmed in the making of your certificate.
Framing
Your certificate is vulnerable to sunlight as well as wear and tear. We recommend you have it framed to protect it.
For best results, use a professional framing service using an archival rag-mat-board and backing boards, which are acid free, and archival glass with ultraviolet protection.