Using Your MA Diploma Abroad? A Guide to Getting an Apostille

Congratulations on your graduation! Whether your hard work paid off at Harvard, MIT, UMass, Boston College, or any of Massachusetts’s prestigious universities, your diploma is more than just a piece of paper—it’s a passport to new opportunities around the globe.

But here’s the catch: if you want to use your diploma for work, advanced studies, or visa purposes overseas, the original document alone isn’t enough. You’ll need an apostille to prove that your diploma or transcript is authentic.

That’s where I come in. At Boston Notary Service, we specialize in guiding graduates and professionals through the exact steps needed to ensure your Massachusetts diploma is recognized worldwide.



Why You Need an Apostille for Your Diploma

An apostille is an internationally recognized seal of authenticity. It allows governments, schools, and employers abroad to accept your diploma as legitimate.

For example, when you present your apostilled diploma in Spain, South Korea, or any other Hague Convention country, they’ll see official proof—directly from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts—that your university’s documents are real and trustworthy.

Without the apostille, your diploma will be rejected. With it, doors open.



How I Help You Get Your Massachusetts Diploma Apostilled

The process for academic records can be confusing, and small mistakes cause big delays. Here’s how it works, and how I step in to make sure you get it right the first time:

Step 1: Work with Your University’s Registrar

I guide you through contacting your Registrar’s Office to request the correct certified copy of your diploma or transcript.

The Registrar must sign the certification in front of a licensed Notary Public. This is a key step, and I’ll ensure it’s done properly so the document doesn’t get rejected later.


Step 2: Submission to the Secretary of the Commonwealth

Once notarized, I handle submitting your documents directly to the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth in Boston.

They will confirm the notary’s credentials and attach the official apostille certificate.


Step 3: Delivery to You (and Translation if Needed)

I can return your apostilled diploma to you quickly, or coordinate translations if your receiving country requires the document in their language.



Common Mistakes I Help You Avoid

Notarizing a regular photocopy – In Massachusetts, notaries cannot certify a diploma copy you made yourself. It must come directly from the university.

Skipping the Registrar’s involvement – The Registrar is the only one who can properly certify your academic records.

Waiting too long – Coordinating with universities and the Secretary of State’s office takes time. I’ll help you start early and stay on track.



Why Work with Boston Notary Service?

Your focus should be on building your career or preparing for your next chapter abroad—not chasing down paperwork. With decades of experience, I know exactly what the Secretary of State and international consulates are looking for.

I work directly with Massachusetts universities and registrars on your behalf.

I know the difference between valid notarizations and those that will get rejected.

I make the process stress-free, saving you time and avoiding costly mistakes.


You’ve already achieved the milestone of earning your degree. Let me help you make sure it counts wherever in the world your future takes you.



Unlock Your Global Opportunities

Your Massachusetts education is a valuable investment. Make sure it’s recognized abroad with the proper apostille.

📧 [email protected]
📞 617-230-6676
🌐 BostonNotaryService.us

At Boston Notary Service, I handle the paperwork so you can focus on your goals. Let’s get your diploma apostilled and ready for the world stage.