Korean Job Discussion Forums

ptewkesb · Joined: 09 Dec 2004

Will employers who require an "original" diploma from one's university accept a "replacement" diploma issued by that university?

The reason I ask is that my original diplomas are framed, and I'd just as soon order replacement diplomas from the schools rather than bust up the frames. Nor am I particularly thrilled by the prospect of "losing" the original in Korea. But if only the original will do, I guess I can bust up a frame or two.

And does the diploma itself have to be notarized, or do only photocopies of diplomas have to be notarized?

It all sounds very complicated, so any tips would be greatly appreciated.

teachingld2004 · Joined: 29 Mar 2004

All you have to do is go to the University you graduated from, and get a letter saying that you are a graduate, with the school seal.

You then take it to the Korean counsulate and they will verify it with their own stamp.

I have done this 3 times This is all you need. If the school states that they need an origional diploma, tell them you lost it. The letter is fine.

ptewkesb · Joined: 09 Dec 2004

Thanks for the tip! I didn't realize that letters would work. That will be *so* much easier than messing with diplomas!

Pyongshin Sangja · Joined: 20 Apr 2003 Location: I love baby!

Zark · Posted: Sat Apr 02, 2005 5:00 pm Post subject:

It's easy to order extra degrees from your university and - at least on mine - there is nothing that indicates they are not the originals. My university was US$30 each - another degree from another university was $50 each. I have three of each of my degrees. For sentimental reasons I don't want to lose the originals - and some employers will try to hold on to your degree - so they can jack you around. If all they have is a re-issued degree - then they have no power over you.

You'll read on this board - from time to time - people in incredible wrestling matches with their employers over getting their degrees back. I say take that power back - avoid the whole mess - get a few replacements.

Take the same path with your transcripts - it's better to have at least several sets, so if irresponsible people lose them for you - no problem.

margaret · Joined: 14 Oct 2003

I ordered an extra one. It was only $15--cheaper than sending the original to the consulate by 2nd day air or Fed Ex to be notarized.
Margaret

ptewkesb · Joined: 09 Dec 2004

Thanks, all, for the feedback. I suppose that I will just go ahead and order replacement diplomas just to be safe. God knows I don't want either to worry about whether a letter will suffice or to wrangle with some employer over getting a diploma back.

And I guess I should get said diploma notarized by a Korean consulate *before* I cross the pond? It seems that y'all get a lot of mixed messages about proper procedures over there.

schwa · Joined: 18 Jan 2003 Location: Yap

Theres no difference between an original diploma & a replacement diploma. You do not need to get a diploma notarized -- only a photocopy. A photocopy notarized by a Korean embassy or consulate (they'll need to see an original & probably transcripts too) should absolutely suffice for issuance of a blue paper -- the guarantee of sponsorship you need from an employer in order to get a visa.

Once here, immigration might request to see an original at some point -- by all means pack an authentic duplicate. Your hunch about letters is right -- might have worked for some but not to be counted on.