How to Apostille a U.S. College Diploma for Use Abroad
The notarization step most people miss
In short: To apostille a U.S. college diploma for use abroad, the diploma is first notarized as a true copy (or verified by the registrar), then apostilled by the Secretary of State of the state where the school is located. For an Illinois university, that's the Illinois Secretary of State. We handle the notarization and apostille together and return it internationally.
The common mistake is trying to apostille the raw diploma. The Secretary of State authenticates a notary or official's signature, so the diploma must first be notarized as a true copy (or carry a registrar's verified signature). We coordinate that step so it isn't rejected. Illinois schools are apostilled in Illinois — see our diploma & transcript page.
Key facts
- Diploma usually notarized first
- Apostilled in the state where the school is located
- Illinois schools → Illinois Secretary of State
Frequently Asked Questions
Can't I just apostille the diploma directly?
Usually not — it needs to be notarized as a true copy first, because the state authenticates the notary's signature.
Which state apostilles my diploma?
The state where the school is located. For an Illinois university, that's Illinois.