How to Apostille a Massachusetts Diploma / degree certificate (2026 Guide)
To apostille a Massachusetts diploma / degree certificate, have a copy of the diploma notarized (the registrar's or a notary's signature), or obtain a registrar-certified copy where the state requires it. Then submit it to the Secretary of the Commonwealth, Commissions Section for $6 per document. Mail processing takes about 5–10 business days; same-day counter available. For a non-Hague destination, you also need US Department of State authentication and embassy legalization.
| Government fee | $6 per document |
|---|---|
| Where to send it | Secretary of the Commonwealth, Commissions Section |
| Required copy | Have a copy of the diploma notarized (the registrar's or a notary's signature), or obtain a registrar-certified copy where the state requires it. |
| Mail time | 5–10 business days |
| Counter | same-day counter available |
| County pre-cert | Required — Some notarized documents from certain jurisdictions may need a register-of-probate or clerk certification first. |
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Step 1 — Get the right copy
Have a copy of the diploma notarized (the registrar's or a notary's signature), or obtain a registrar-certified copy where the state requires it. In Massachusetts, massachusetts vital records come from the Registry of Vital Records and Statistics.
Step 2 — County clerk pre-certification
A diploma / degree certificate is notary-based, so Massachusetts requires the county clerk who oversees the notary to certify the notary's authority first. Some notarized documents from certain jurisdictions may need a register-of-probate or clerk certification first.Skipping this is a common cause of rejection. The county pre-certification guide explains it in full.
Step 3 — Submit to the Secretary of the Commonwealth, Commissions Section
Include a signed cover sheet naming the destination country, payment payable to the authority above, and a prepaid return envelope. Confirm exact requirements on the official page linked in sources. Pay $6 per document by check or money order. Counter service in Boston.
Step 4 — Check the destination country
If your document is going to a Hague Apostille Convention member, the apostille is the last step. If the destination is not a member, you continue to the U.S. Department of State — Office of Authentications for authentication and then to that country's embassy for legalization. Confirm with theCountry Checker.
Common rejection reasons
- The notary certified the copy but the school seal is missing where required
- The state requires the registrar's signature, not a self-notarized copy
Who typically needs this
Work and skilled-migration visas.
Teaching English abroad (TEFL/TESOL placements).
Foreign professional licensing.
Frequently asked questions
＋How much does it cost to apostille a diploma / degree certificate in Massachusetts?
The Secretary of the Commonwealth, Commissions Section charges $6 per document. You pay separately for the certified copy and your return envelope.
＋Can I apostille a photocopy of my diploma / degree certificate?
No. Massachusetts apostilles the certified or properly notarized document, not a plain photocopy. The notary certified the copy but the school seal is missing where required
＋How long does it take?
Mail processing in Massachusetts runs about 5–10 business days. A counter option (same-day counter available) can be faster. A non-Hague destination adds the federal and embassy steps on top.
＋Does my diploma / degree certificate need county pre-certification?
Yes. In Massachusetts, this notary-based document is certified by the county clerk before the state apostille. Some notarized documents from certain jurisdictions may need a register-of-probate or clerk certification first. The Pathway Checker confirms it for your case.
Other Massachusetts documents
Sources
Reviewed by Billy Reiner, Editor
Last verified: July 13, 2026 against the Secretary of the Commonwealth, Commissions Section and the HCCH status table(official page). See how we verify and how often on ourmethodology page.
This is informational, not legal advice. The receiving authority sets the final requirements — confirm with them and the office named above before you send anything.