Understanding the University of Pennsylvania's Official Electronic Diploma (CeDiploma)

The University of Pennsylvania (Penn) offers a certified electronic diploma, known as the CeDiploma, as a convenient alternative or supplement to the traditional paper diploma. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the CeDiploma, including its features, availability, ordering process, and important deadlines.

What is a CeDiploma?

The CeDiploma is a secure, verifiable electronic version of your official University of Pennsylvania diploma. It serves as an official credential that can be easily shared with employers, graduate schools, or other institutions. It's an exact replica of the paper diploma and, like the physical diploma, is printed in Latin, reflecting Penn's long-standing tradition since its first graduating class in 1757. An English translation of the Latin text is available.

Availability of the CeDiploma

Currently, the CeDiploma is available for degrees conferred starting in May 2020 and for all subsequent semesters. It's important to note that the CeDiploma doesn't become available until your degree is officially conferred on your academic records.

Timelines for Accessing Your CeDiploma

The physical diploma and the CeDiploma are generally created simultaneously. This means the timelines for receiving both are similar. For example, if your physical diploma typically ships two months after graduation, you can expect to access your CeDiploma approximately two months after graduation. However, the key advantage of the CeDiploma is that you gain immediate access without waiting for shipping.

Early Access to CeDiploma

If you require a diploma urgently for certification or employment purposes, you have the option to purchase early access to your CeDiploma. This service provides expedited access to your certified electronic diploma after your degree has been conferred.

Read also: Affording Penn Law

How to Access Your CeDiploma

Once your CeDiploma is available, you can access it by clicking the "Register/Download now" link.

Important Dates and Deadlines

Several deadlines are associated with diploma-related processes. Here's a summary of key dates for the graduating classes of August 2025, December 2025, and May 2026:

Sunday, March 1, 2026: Last day to update your diploma name for the University's Commencement program. Note that students who have opted out of FERPA Directory Information will not have their names printed in the Commencement program.
Friday, April 10, 2026: Last day for Veterinary, Dental, and Perelman School of Medicine (PSOM) (MD) students to update their diploma name using the Legal Name Change or Correction and Diploma Name Change forms. The name on your diploma must exactly match your legal name.
Friday, June 12, 2026: Last day to order early electronic diplomas (CeDiploma). Please note there is a cost for this service. Note: this service will not be available until after Commencement. Last day to purchase secure express shipping of your paper diploma.

For students not in Vet, Dental, or PSOM (MD) programs, the last day to update the diploma name using the Diploma Name Change form is also Friday, June 12, 2026. The name(s) on your diploma(s) must match the legal name(s) in your student records; diplomas will not be printed until the names match. Names will appear exactly as entered.

Ordering and Payment Information

To request a CeDiploma or other diploma services, you will need your PennKey credentials (username and password) to access the Diploma/Translation Order Request form. Payment for CeDiploma services is processed through Paradigm, the official diploma vendor for the University of Pennsylvania, or Cloverflex links. The cost for the CeDiploma service is $17.95.

Important Considerations

Name Accuracy: Ensure that the first name(s) and last name(s) on your diploma(s) match your legal name(s) in your student records. Your diploma(s) will not be printed until the name(s) match. Names will appear exactly as entered.
FERPA Directory Information: Students who opt-out of FERPA Directory Information will not have their names printed in the Commencement program.
Service Availability: A credential may not be available for all conferral dates.