Translation guide
A diploma is an official document certifying completion of a course of study, typically from a school or university. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 卒業証書, but other terms exist depending on context.
The physical certificate awarded upon graduation from an educational institution.
The standard term for a diploma received upon graduation from any school level (elementary through university).
I received my diploma.
My diploma is framed and displayed.
Specifically refers to a diploma for a university degree (bachelor's, master's, doctorate). More formal than 卒業証書.
I was awarded my university diploma.
A certificate of graduation, often used as an official document proving graduation rather than the ceremonial diploma. Sometimes issued separately.
I need a certificate of graduation for my job application.
A document certifying completion of a course, training program, or specialized study, not necessarily a full degree.
Used for certificates of completion for courses, training programs, or vocational schools. Not typically used for standard school graduation.
I received a diploma from the Japanese language school.
Upon completing this course, a certificate of completion will be issued.
A shorter, slightly less formal version of 修了証書, commonly used for workshops or short courses.
I received a certificate of completion for the seminar.
Specifically the diploma awarded upon completing high school, often referenced in job or college applications.
Referring to the diploma as a credential or qualification, not the physical document.
In English, 'diploma' can sometimes refer to a degree certificate, but in Japanese, 学位 (がくい) specifically means an academic degree (bachelor's, master's, etc.). Use 学位記 for the diploma that proves a degree, but 学位 itself is the degree, not the paper.
In casual conversation, Japanese speakers might simply say 卒業した (graduated) rather than explicitly mentioning the diploma. For example, 'I have a diploma in engineering' could be expressed as 工学を卒業しました (I graduated in engineering).
Please submit your high school diploma.
Does your educational background affect hiring?
It's difficult to earn a diploma from this school.