Digital degree certificates introduced in March 2025

The University of Helsinki will introduce digital degree certificates in March 2025. Degree certificates are issued digitally to prospective graduates who submit a graduation request on or after 18 March 2025.

Thereafter, all graduates who have completed a bachelor’s, master’s or postgraduate research degree, as well as graduates of specialist training in medicine, dentistry and veterinary, will receive a digital degree certificate.

Digital degree certificates are more reliable than printed ones, as their forgery is more difficult. Digital certificates are also easier to include in, for example, digital job-seeking: there is no need to authenticate the certificate, as those viewing it can verify its authenticity on their own.

Digital degree certificates are legally binding and valid throughout the European Union. Each unedited certificate version stored anywhere is an official degree certificate.

Following the switch to digital certificates, printed degree certificates will no longer be issued. However, officially certified printed copies of certificates will continue to be provided, when necessary. As before, such copies are subject to a fee.

Completing a degree is always a huge achievement, the end of an era – and the beginning of something new. Graduation can be celebrated in many ways, and each graduate is free to choose their own way. The University offers opportunities to celebrate completed degrees in ceremonies including speeches, music and toasts raised in honour of the new degree holders. Depending on the faculty, graduation ceremonies are organised once or twice during the academic year.

For more information on digital degree certificates and instructions for the transition, see Digital degree certificates and FAQ in the Studies Service.

Photo: Veikko Somerpuro