Top 6 ValidGrad Alternatives for Display Diplomas and Transcripts in 2026
Quick answer: The right ValidGrad alternative depends on why you're looking. If you need proof of education, the only answer is your school (or GED.com for GED records). If you want a keepsake, gift or prop, compare display-copy shops such as Hey Congrats, free templates you print yourself, or a local print shop. All six options are below.
Need proof of graduation? Start with our guide to getting a copy of your high school diploma or contact your college records office. Want a keepsake? Browse the diploma maker for personalized, non-official display copies.
First, what are you trying to do?
ValidGrad is one of several online sellers of novelty and replacement-style documents. We can't speak to any other company's current products, prices or policies, so check each seller's own site, disclaimers and reviews before you order. Before comparing sellers, decide which of these fits you:
- I need proof for a job, school or agency. Go to alternative 1 or 2.
- I want a framed keepsake or gift. See alternatives 3 to 5.
- My original is damaged or I want to protect it. See alternative 6.
The 6 alternatives
1. Your school's records office (for proof)
For jobs, admissions and licensing, request a reissued diploma or a transcript from the school that awarded it. Many colleges handle transcript requests online, sometimes through a service such as the National Student Clearinghouse. High school records sit with the school or district; if the school closed, your state education agency can help. Our high school diploma copy guide walks through each route.
2. GED.com or your state (for GED records)
If you earned a GED, order your diploma and transcript at GED.com by choosing the state where you tested. See how to request a copy of your GED certificate.
3. Hey Congrats (personalized display copies)
Hey Congrats is a design and print shop in Richmond, VA, making display documents since 2001. We make personalized, non-official display copies of diplomas, transcripts and certificates for keepsakes, gifts and permitted props. Customers rate us 4.7 from 294+ reviews.
- Diploma maker
- College diploma display copies and college transcript display copies
- High school diploma and transcript display sets
- Homeschool graduation options and international diploma and transcript copies
- An order proof option to check your design before it ships
4. Free templates you print yourself
For a quick, low-cost certificate, a free design tool such as Canva's certificate templates works. Expect to handle the layout, paper and printing yourself. Our post comparing free diploma generators with display copies covers the trade-offs, and our diploma template guide helps with layout.
5. A local print shop
If you already have a design, a local print shop can print it on heavier stock and suggest a frame. You'll need to supply the artwork and keep the wording clearly commemorative.
6. Protect or frame the original you have
If your diploma is intact but you worry about damage, a diploma cover or a frame with UV-filtering glazing may be all you need. See should I get my diploma framed? and common causes of diploma damage.
How to compare display-copy sellers
| Check | What good looks like |
|---|---|
| Disclaimer | Clearly says products are non-official display or novelty copies |
| Proof | A proof step before printing |
| Materials | Specific paper and seal-finish details, not vague claims |
| Range | Diplomas, transcripts and covers that match |
| Reviews | Reviews you can read on and off the seller's site |
| Support | A person you can reach by phone or email |
Frequently asked questions
What is a good alternative to ValidGrad?
It depends on your goal. For proof of education, go to your school or GED.com. For a keepsake, gift or prop, compare display-copy shops like Hey Congrats, free templates or a local print shop.
Are display diplomas legal?
Owning a display copy as a keepsake, gift or permitted prop is a common use. Using any document to misrepresent your education can carry serious consequences.
Can I get a transcript for a job from a display-copy shop?
No. Employers need transcripts sent by your school. Display transcripts are for framing, gifts and props.
Does Hey Congrats offer proofs?
Yes. You can add an order proof option to review your design before it ships.
Can I make a diploma for free?
Yes. Free design tools let you create and print a certificate yourself. You'll handle the layout, paper and printing.
Bottom line
Match the alternative to your goal: your school or GED.com for proof, and a clearly labeled display copy from the diploma maker for keepsakes, gifts and props.
Disclaimer: Hey Congrats products are non-official display, commemorative and novelty documents. They are not issued by or affiliated with any school, college, testing service or government agency, and they are not a substitute for school records. See our full disclaimer. This article was drafted with AI help and checked by the Hey Congrats team.
