UBC Diploma Frames: A Complete Guide to Framing Your University of British Columbia Degree

Graduating from the University of British Columbia (UBC) marks years of dedication, hard work, and academic achievement. Whether you've earned a bachelor's degree, master's degree, doctorate, or professional credential, your diploma deserves to be displayed and protected with a frame that will preserve it for decades.

This guide explains how to choose the right UBC diploma frame, how to measure your degree correctly, whether you need a custom frame, and what materials best protect your diploma over time.

Does UBC Use Standard Diploma Sizes?

One of the most common questions graduates ask is:

"What size is a UBC diploma?"

The answer is that UBC diplomas are not all identical in size.

The dimensions of a diploma can vary depending on factors such as:

• Faculty
• Degree program
• Graduation year
• Campus
• Whether the diploma is undergraduate or graduate

For this reason, it is always recommended that you measure your diploma before ordering a frame rather than assuming it matches a standard size.

How to Measure Your UBC Diploma

Accurate measurements ensure your diploma fits perfectly.

1. Lay the diploma on a flat surface.
2. Measure the width first.
3. Measure the height second.
4. Measure only the paper—not an existing frame.
5. Record measurements to the nearest 1/16 inch (or nearest millimetre).

If your diploma has an embossed seal or raised lettering, include these features when choosing the depth of your frame.

Use Our Free Frame Size Calculator

Not sure what size frame you need?

Our Frame Size Calculator helps you determine:

• the correct frame size
• recommended mat opening
• approximate outside dimensions
• moulding width
• custom frame sizing

Simply enter your diploma measurements and the calculator will estimate the finished frame dimensions in seconds.

Should You Choose a Standard or Custom Diploma Frame?

Standard Frame

If your diploma matches a common document size, a ready-made frame may be suitable.

Benefits include:

• lower cost
• immediate availability
• simple installation

However, many UBC diplomas do not match common retail frame sizes exactly.

Custom Diploma Frame

A custom frame is often the best solution because it is built specifically for your diploma.

Benefits include:

• precise fit
• no trimming or forcing the document
• wider choice of mouldings
• custom mat colours
• conservation-quality materials
• UV-protective glazing

For graduates displaying their degree in a professional office or home, a custom frame provides a cleaner and more refined presentation.

Choosing the Right Frame Style

The frame should complement both the diploma and the room where it will be displayed.

Popular choices include:

Black Wood

A timeless, professional appearance that suits nearly any office.

Natural Oak

Clean and contemporary, perfect for modern interiors.

Walnut

Warm and traditional, especially popular in executive offices.

White Maple

A minimalist option for bright contemporary spaces.

Should You Use a Mat?

A mat serves both aesthetic and protective purposes.

A quality mat:

• creates visual balance
• prevents the diploma from touching the glazing
• highlights the university seal
• draws attention to signatures and calligraphy

White, ivory, and cream mats remain the most popular choices for university diplomas, although many graduates choose UBC-inspired blue and gold accents to complement the institution's colours.

Glass or Acrylic?

Both materials work well, but acrylic is often preferred for diploma framing.

Acrylic (Plexiglass)

Advantages include:

• lighter weight
• shatter resistance
• easier shipping
• UV protection
• greater safety in homes and offices

Glass

Advantages include:

• excellent scratch resistance
• traditional appearance
• easy cleaning

If your diploma will hang in a busy office or be shipped across Canada, UV-filtering acrylic is generally the recommended choice.

Protecting Your Diploma

Your diploma is printed on archival-quality paper, but prolonged exposure to sunlight can still cause fading.

For long-term preservation, choose:

• acid-free mat board
• archival backing
• UV-filtering acrylic or glass
• conservation mounting methods that avoid adhesives on the diploma itself

These materials help preserve the document's appearance for many years.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size frame fits a UBC diploma?

Because UBC diploma sizes vary, measure your diploma before ordering. A custom frame ensures an exact fit regardless of the document dimensions.

Does UBC sell diploma frames?

UBC and affiliated organizations may periodically offer diploma frames through university channels. Many graduates, however, choose custom framing to gain more flexibility in moulding styles, mat colours, glazing options, and sizing.

Can I frame a master's or PhD diploma?

Yes. Master's, doctoral, and professional degrees can all be custom framed using the same conservation methods as undergraduate diplomas.

What is the best mat colour for a UBC diploma?

White and ivory remain the most popular choices, while some graduates incorporate blue and gold accent mats inspired by UBC's colours.

Is custom framing worth it?

For original diplomas that represent years of academic achievement, many graduates find that a custom frame provides a better fit, greater protection, and a more polished presentation than a generic ready-made frame.

Why Graduates Choose Custom Frames Canada

At Custom Frames Canada, every diploma frame is made to order.

You can choose:

• exact dimensions
• premium wood mouldings
• conservation-quality mat board
• UV-protective acrylic
• modern or traditional styles
• framing designed specifically for your diploma

Whether you've graduated from UBC's Vancouver or Okanagan campus, a custom frame ensures your degree is displayed with the care and craftsmanship it deserves.

Related Resources

• Frame Size Calculator
• Diploma Frames
• Standard Picture Frame Sizes
• How to Measure Artwork
• Acrylic vs Glass for Picture Frames
• Custom Picture Frames

Congratulations on your graduation from the University of British Columbia. Your diploma represents years of commitment and achievement—framing it properly ensures that accomplishment can be displayed with pride for years to come.