Affidavit Requirement for Lost Degree Certificate

Losing a degree certificate can create complications in employment, immigration, higher education admissions, and professional licensing. One of the most important legal documents required for re-issuing a lost degree certificate is an affidavit.

Universities require an affidavit to confirm that the original certificate is genuinely lost and not being misused.

This guide explains the affidavit requirement in detail.

Why Is an Affidavit Required?

An affidavit serves as a sworn declaration stating:

• The degree certificate has been lost or misplaced

• The loss is genuine

• The certificate has not been misused

• If found later, it will be surrendered to the university

It protects the university from duplicate misuse or fraudulent claims.

Key Details to Include in the Affidavit

The affidavit should clearly mention:

• Full name of the applicant

• Father’s / Mother’s name

• Course name

• Year of passing

• Enrollment / Registration number

• University name

• Details of how the certificate was lost

• Declaration of non-misuse

• Undertaking to return original if found

Accuracy is very important.

Is FIR Also Required?

In many cases, universities also require:

• FIR copy from police station

• Or loss complaint acknowledgement

The FIR supports the affidavit as legal proof of loss.

Some universities may require both affidavit and FIR.

Notarization Requirement

The affidavit must be:

• Printed on stamp paper (value depends on state rules)

• Signed by the applicant

• Notarized by a public notary

For NRIs, notarization from the country of residence may be required and sometimes apostilled.

When Is Newspaper Advertisement Required?

Some universities ask for:

• Newspaper advertisement in one English daily

• One regional language newspaper

The advertisement should mention the loss of the degree certificate.

This step depends on university policy.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Incorrect enrollment number

• Wrong year of passing

• Spelling mismatch with university records

• Missing declaration statement

• Submitting non-notarized affidavit

Errors may delay the re-issue process.

After Submitting the Affidavit

Once affidavit and supporting documents are submitted:

• University verifies academic records

• Registrar approval is obtained

• Duplicate or re-issued degree certificate is issued

The new certificate may mention “Duplicate” or “Re-Issued.”

Important Tips for NRIs

• Ensure name matches passport

• Keep scanned copies of affidavit and FIR

• Provide authorization letter if someone collects on your behalf

• Confirm if apostille is required for international use

Planning properly avoids repeated documentation.

Conclusion

An affidavit is a mandatory legal document when applying for re-issuance of a lost degree certificate. It acts as a sworn declaration protecting both the applicant and the university from misuse.

For NRIs managing the process remotely, proper drafting and coordination are essential.
NRIWAY assists with affidavit preparation, university application submission, follow-ups, and secure document handling — ensuring a smooth and legally compliant re-issuance process.