University of Waterloo Diploma Frames: The Complete Guide to Framing Your Waterloo Degree
Graduating from the University of Waterloo is a significant achievement. Whether you've earned a bachelor's degree, master's degree, PhD, or professional credential, your diploma represents years of dedication, innovation, and hard work.
Your diploma is more than a certificate—it's an official legal document and a lasting reminder of your academic accomplishments. Choosing the right diploma frame helps protect it while creating a professional display for your home or office.
This guide explains the official size of Waterloo diplomas, how to choose the right frame, and the best materials for preserving your degree for decades.
What Size Is a University of Waterloo Diploma?
One of the most common questions graduates ask is:
"What size frame do I need for my University of Waterloo diploma?"
According to the University of Waterloo, current diplomas measure 15.5 × 10.5 inches.
The university also notes that diplomas issued before 2011 were produced in a different size and cannot be reproduced in the current dimensions. If you graduated before 2011, you should measure your diploma before ordering a frame.
Does Waterloo Sell Diploma Frames?
Yes.
The W Store offers official University of Waterloo diploma frames featuring embossed university branding and acid-free mats. Current diploma frames are designed to fit diplomas issued since 2012 and have finished outside dimensions of approximately 15 × 20 inches, depending on the model.
Many graduates, however, choose independent custom framing because it allows for:
- exact custom sizing
- premium hardwood mouldings
- wider mat colour selection
- museum-quality UV glazing
- personalized designs
- greater flexibility than official frame styles
Why Choose a Custom Diploma Frame?
A custom diploma frame is designed specifically for your document.
Benefits include:
- precise fit
- archival-quality materials
- UV protection
- custom mat colours
- premium wood mouldings
- conservation mounting methods
Unlike ready-made frames, custom framing ensures your diploma is protected without trimming, folding, or forcing it into a standard frame.
How to Measure Your Waterloo Diploma
Although Waterloo publishes the size of its current diplomas, measuring your individual diploma is still recommended.
- Lay the diploma on a clean, flat surface.
- Measure the width.
- Measure the height.
- Measure only the paper—not an existing frame.
- Record the dimensions to the nearest 1/16 inch (or nearest millimetre).
If your diploma has an embossed seal or raised features, choose a frame with sufficient depth to accommodate them.
Use Our Free Frame Size Calculator
Our Frame Size Calculator makes choosing a diploma frame simple.
It helps estimate:
- custom frame size
- mat opening
- recommended mat width
- outside frame dimensions
- moulding width
Simply enter your diploma dimensions to determine the correct custom frame size before placing your order.
Choosing the Right Frame Style
Waterloo diplomas pair well with classic, understated frame designs.
Popular options include:
Black Wood
Professional and timeless.
Ideal for:
- engineering offices
- technology companies
- consulting firms
- academic offices
Walnut
A warm traditional finish that complements the diploma's formal appearance.
Natural Oak
A contemporary choice suited to modern homes and workspaces.
White Maple
Minimalist styling that emphasizes the diploma itself.
Choosing the Right Mat
A mat serves both decorative and protective purposes.
It:
- keeps the diploma away from the glazing
- reduces condensation damage
- highlights signatures and the University seal
- creates visual balance
Popular mat colours include:
- White
- Ivory
- Antique White
Many Waterloo graduates also choose black and gold accent mats inspired by the University's colours for a subtle school-themed presentation.
Glass or UV Acrylic?
Both materials provide excellent protection.
UV Acrylic
Recommended because it is:
- lightweight
- shatter resistant
- safer for shipping
- available with excellent UV protection
Glass
Advantages include:
- superior scratch resistance
- traditional appearance
- excellent clarity
If your diploma will be displayed where it receives natural light, UV-filtering glazing is recommended to reduce fading over time.
Protecting Your Original Diploma
The University of Waterloo describes the diploma as an official legal document and normally issues one original diploma upon graduation, with replacement or duplicate diplomas available through formal procedures if required.
To preserve your diploma for decades, choose:
- acid-free mat board
- archival backing
- conservation mounting methods
- UV-filtering acrylic or glass
Avoid using tape, glue, or adhesive mounting methods directly on the diploma.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size frame fits a University of Waterloo diploma?
Current Waterloo diplomas measure 15.5 × 10.5 inches. Graduates from before 2011 should measure their diploma, as earlier versions were produced in a different size.
Does Waterloo sell official diploma frames?
Yes. The W Store offers several official diploma frame styles designed for Waterloo diplomas, including classic and contemporary options.
Can I frame an engineering degree?
Absolutely. Engineering, mathematics, science, arts, health, and graduate degrees can all be framed using conservation-quality materials.
Should I choose UV-protective glazing?
Yes. UV-filtering acrylic or glass helps reduce fading caused by sunlight and is recommended for long-term preservation.
Is custom framing worth it?
For an original academic credential, many graduates choose custom framing because it offers an exact fit, higher-quality materials, and more design flexibility than standard retail frames.
Why Choose Custom Frames Canada?
Every diploma frame from Custom Frames Canada is made specifically for your document.
You can customize:
- exact dimensions
- premium hardwood mouldings
- archival-quality mat board
- UV-protective acrylic
- classic or contemporary designs
Whether you've graduated from Engineering, Mathematics, Computer Science, Science, Arts, Environment, Health, or another Waterloo faculty, a custom frame ensures your diploma is displayed with craftsmanship that reflects your achievement.
Related Resources
Congratulations on graduating from the University of Waterloo. Your diploma represents years of perseverance, innovation, and accomplishment. A professionally crafted custom frame will preserve that achievement while creating a display you'll be proud to showcase for years to come.
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