Lost Your Kiel University Diploma? The Ultimate Guide to Replacement & Reissuance
Losing an original university degree can be a stressful experience, especially when you need it for a job application or a visa process. If you are a graduate of Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel (CAU)—commonly known as Kiel University—getting a replacement is a formal but manageable process.Kiel University Diploma Security Replacement
Whether your diploma was lost during a move, damaged, or stolen, this guide covers the exact steps, costs, and timelines to help you secure a fresh copy of your credentials.
Understanding the Basics: Duplicate vs. Original
Before diving into the steps, it is important to clarify what you will receive. German universities, including Kiel University, generally do not issue a second “original” diploma. Instead, they provide a Zweitfertigung (Duplicate).
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Legality: A duplicate is legally equivalent to the original and carries the university’s official seal.
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Appearance: It looks almost identical to the original but will clearly state “Zweitfertigung” (Duplicate) on the document.
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Validity: It is accepted by all government authorities and employers worldwide.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Replacement
The process at Kiel University is handled by the Examination Office (Prüfungsamt) of your specific faculty. Since CAU is divided into various faculties (Medicine, Law, Arts, etc.), you must contact the one that granted your degree.
1. Contact Your Faculty Examination Office
Search for the “Prüfungsamt” associated with your degree. For example, if you studied Economics, you would contact the Examination Office of the Faculty of Business, Economics, and Social Sciences.
2. Submit a Written Application
You cannot usually request a replacement over the phone. You must submit a formal written request via post or, in some cases, a scanned PDF via email. Your application must include:
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Full name (and maiden name if applicable).
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Date and place of birth.
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Matriculation number (if known).
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The exact name of your degree (e.g., Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology).
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Year of graduation.
3. Provide an Affidavit (Eidesstattliche Versicherung)
In Germany, a formal declaration is often required. You must sign a statement affirming that the original diploma is lost or destroyed and that you will return the duplicate if the original is ever found.
4. Verification of Identity
Include a clear copy of your valid ID or passport to prove your identity.
Estimated Costs and Processing Time
Replacing a high-security document involves administrative work and specialized printing.
| Category | Details |
| Administrative Fee | Typically between €30 and €60 (varies by faculty). |
| Shipping Costs | Extra for international registered mail (approx. €10 – €20). |
| Processing Time | 4 to 8 weeks. This can take longer during semester breaks. |
Pro Tip: If you are in a rush for a job interview, ask the Examination Office for a “Certified Transcript” or a “Confirmation of Graduation” in the interim. These are often issued much faster than a full diploma duplicate.
Difference Between Diploma, Transcript, and Supplement
When requesting documents, make sure you are asking for the right one.
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Diploma (Urkunde): The decorative certificate that grants you the academic title.
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Transcript of Records (Zeugnis): The detailed list of all your modules, grades, and credits (ECTS).
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Diploma Supplement: A standardized document (usually in English and German) that describes the nature, level, and content of your studies for international recognition.
Commonly Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I get a digital copy of my Kiel University diploma?
While CAU is moving toward more digital services, a “Replacement Diploma” is still primarily a physical document with an embossed seal. However, many faculties now provide digitally signed Transcripts of Records.
Q: What if my faculty has changed its name or no longer exists?
Kiel University has a long history. If your specific department has merged, the central Registrar’s Office (Studierendenservice) can direct you to the correct archive.
Q: Can a third party pick up my replacement diploma?
Yes, but only if you provide them with a notarized power of attorney (Vollmacht) and a copy of your ID.
Q: Does the university keep copies of my old diploma?
No. Universities keep records of your grades and graduation, but they do not keep “spare” printed diplomas. Each one is custom-printed upon request.
Conclusion
Losing your Kiel University diploma is an inconvenience, but the university’s administrative system is designed to help alumni recover their credentials. By contacting your specific Prüfungsamt, paying the fee, and providing the necessary identification, you can have a legal duplicate in your hands within a couple of months.
💡 Need help?
If you have any questions about the process, or need to expedite the processing of your graduation certificate, degree certificate, transcript, etc., the Getprintdocs team is happy to assist you.