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The Best Diploma Frame

Last updated on July 20, 2023

We looked at the top 19 Diploma Frames and dug through the reviews from 6 of the most popular review sites including and more. The result is a ranking of the best Diploma Frames.

Best Diploma Frame

Our Review Process

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The first thing you want to do as you browse available diploma frames is check the quality of the frame’s construction. Solid wood is always a good choice, as is a certified MDF backing. You may even come across a few models that are 100% recyclable. These frames are eco-friendly and allow you to contribute in caring for the environment.

Next, take a look at the frame’s glass, as this is what preserves your diploma and keeps it free from dust and accidental scratches. At the very least, you want the glass to be lead-free and crystal clear. If you plan on hanging the document in the direct path of the sun, it’s best to pay a little extra for glass with UV protection. Additionally, if you have small children or pets at home, go with a tempered glass that is shatterproof.

Determine how you want to display your diploma frame. Some models have an easel back that allows you to place the frame on a desk or tabletop. Others have triangle or sawtooth hangers for hanging the frame on the wall. Don’t forget to check the placement of the hanger to determine whether it can be hung vertically or horizontally.

Style is also important when selecting the best diploma frame. Perhaps you prefer to keep things simple with a gallery-style frame in one solid color. Maybe you’re looking for a more contemporary design that features Newzland whitewood molding, a colored mat and a gold rim. There are frames made from Indonesian wood and others that offer a choice between 12 different finishes. No matter what your taste, you’re sure to find a frame that meets your needs.

Before purchasing your diploma frame, it is important to check the size of your document. You’ll find different institutions issue diplomas in various sizes, so you want to ensure the frame you buy fits your specific diploma. All you need to do is use a ruler to measure the height and width of the diploma in inches. Frames are commonly sold in the following sizes: 8 1/2 inches x 11 inches, 11 inches x 14 inches, 14 inches x 11 inches, 12 inches x 15 inches, 7 1/2 inches x 9 1/2 inches and 11 3/4 inches x 16 inches.

Next, you’ll want to consider what you want the diploma frame to hold. You can get a basic model that simply displays your diploma or one that also holds your tassel. In fact, there are frames that are designed to work more like shadow boxes. They can hold your varsity letter, valedictorian sash or any other important piece of memorabilia.

Diploma frames also come with the ability to place a picture next to the diploma. You could use your official graduation picture, a picture of your college sports team or a photo of the campus.

Once you know what type of frame works best for your needs, you can decide whether you’d like to customize the mat around the diploma. You can insert the name of your university and the year you graduated on a mat that matches the color scheme of your school. If you have a white mat, you can ask classmates and professors to sign the mat, so you always have fond memories of your college days nearby.

When your diploma frame arrives, you’ll need to take care to insert the diploma correctly. If the diploma is rolled and not flat, place it in between a set of books for a few days. You may need to put a weight on top. This will flatten the diploma nicely so that you can slide it in the frame. If the frame has a mat, make sure the diploma is centered. You may want to use some archival tape to help hold the diploma in place.

Finally, you’ll need to hang the diploma frame for all to see. Some frames come with a built-in level-locking hanging system. If your frame doesn’t offer this, all you need is a traditional level from the toolkit in your garage. Sometimes a frame may look straight when it’s actually a few degrees off-center. The level will let you know when the frame is placed just right.

Our Picks For The Top Diploma Frames

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Product Overview
Our Take
  Top Pick

RPJC Wall-Mounted Vertical/Horizontal Diploma Frame

Don't Waste Your Money Seal of Approval

RPJC

Wall-Mounted Vertical/Horizontal Diploma Frame

Available in black, brown or white, you're sure to find this diploma frame in a shade that matches your decor. The frame is constructed from a solid wood and features a high-definition glass front to protect your document. With this frame, you have the option of displaying it either horizontally or vertically.

Overall Take

Economical OptionYou'll love the budget-friendly price tag on this top-notch diploma frame.

  Top Pick

Americanflat Lead-Free Multipurpose Diploma Frame

Americanflat

Lead-Free Multipurpose Diploma Frame

If you have small children at home who are just learning how to throw a ball, you'll want to go with this diploma frame, which is covered with a shatter-resistant glass. The diploma's frame is made of wood and comes with a white beveled mat. All the hardware you need to install this frame is included with your purchase.

Overall Take

Shatter-Resistant GlassDecorate your home or office with this sleek black diploma frame.

  Runner Up

Golden State Art Display Tempered Glass Diploma Frame

Golden State Art

Display Tempered Glass Diploma Frame

Great for home or office, this diploma frame utilizes a classic design that truly highlights your accomplishments by displaying your diploma in style. Consumers have a choice between 12 different finishes, including black, distressed red and gold. The diploma frame can also be hung up vertically or horizontally.

Overall Take

High-Quality WoodThis diploma frame is constructed from high quality solid wood that is not only durable but also attractive.

  Strong Contender

GraduationMall Eco-Friendly Display Diploma Frame

GraduationMall

Eco-Friendly Display Diploma Frame

There are two ways to use this attractive diploma frame. Use it with the mat to show off your 8 1/2 by 11-inch document or without the provided mat to display your 11 by 14-inch diploma. The frame itself has a beautiful mahogany finish that is decorated with a series of gold beads.

Overall Take

Elegant PickIn addition to protecting your document from dust and spills, this diploma frame also protects against UV rays.

  We Also Like

DOAI ART Double Mat Wall Diploma Frame

DOAI ART

Double Mat Wall Diploma Frame

While this diploma frame can be displayed on a tabletop or mantel, it also comes with the hardware for wall mounting. The frame has a beautiful mahogany finish with a decorative gold inlay. Instead of the typical glass cover, this option uses a scratch-resistant polymer plate to protect your certificate.

Overall Take

Choice of Mat ColorsThis brown diploma frame comes with a choice of a black or blue mat.

  Also Great

CORE ART Freestanding Rectangular Diploma Frame

CORE ART

Freestanding Rectangular Diploma Frame

Show off the results of your hard work with this stunning diploma frame. It's constructed using an environmentally-friendly material and can be used with or without the provided mat. You can even get the frame in black or brown to match your existing decor.

Overall Take

Affordable Price TagDisplay your achievement for less with this economical diploma frame.

  Strong Contender

Icona Bay Wood Diploma Picture Frame, Set Of 6

Icona Bay

Wood Diploma Picture Frame, Set Of 6

Earning a diploma or certification is something to be proud of and you will want to have this important piece of paper last a long time. Framing these types of documents allows you to display them for all to see while also keeping them from being beat-up by the elements or being tossed loosely into a file folder.

Overall Take

Diploma FramesProtecting and displaying your diplomas and certifications at the same time, this set of frames will have you covered.

Don't just take for granted what one reviewer says. Along with our own experts, Simplemost analyzes the top expert reviews of the leading products and generates a score you can actually trust.
26

Products Considered

We identified the majority of the diploma frames available to purchase.
19

Products Analyzed

We then selected the leading and most popular products for our team to review.

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Expert Reviews Included

In addition to our expert reviews, we also incorporate feedback and analysis of some of the most respected sources.

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User Opinions Analyzed

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The Best Bang For Your Buck

GraduationMall Eco-Friendly Display Diploma Frame

Our Total Score

9.7

Our Take

There are two ways to use this attractive diploma frame. Use it with the mat to show off your 8 1/2 by 11-inch document or without the provided mat to display your 11 by 14-inch diploma. The frame itself has a beautiful mahogany finish that is decorated with a series of gold beads.

What to Look For

  • In addition to dusting your diploma frame regularly with a feather duster, you’re also going to want to give it a thorough cleaning from time to time. To do this, you’ll need to remove the frame from the wall and set it on a table. Flip the frame over and remove the diploma. Use glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth on the glass portion of the frame and mild dish soap and water on the wood or plastic part of the frame. This will remove any fingerprints and accumulated dust and dirt. Dry the diploma frame completely with a lint-free towel before reassembling it and hanging it back up on your wall.
  • There are plenty of attractive diploma frames that have an elegant look. These are great choices if you’re looking for the perfect graduation present.
  • Check to see if the company selling the diploma frames gives back to any charities. For example, one business partners with the One Tree Planted Organization to plant a new tree each time a product is sold.
  • Verify that the organization takes special measures to ensure the diploma frame arrives undamaged and unbroken. Some companies use bubble envelopes with cardboard packaging that is also made with corner guards. Others have developed their own product packaging that is specifically designed to keep fragile items safe during travel.
  • Style and added features contribute to the overall price of diploma frames. The Americanflat Black Matted Diploma Frame is more basic in design, and therefore, more affordable than other models.

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