Make a certificate

Design an award or completion certificate and export a PDF that prints at true paper size.

Click something to select it, drag to move, use the corner squares to resize and the dot above to rotate. Double-click text to edit it.

Templates

Two templates: a classic one with a double gold rule and a handwritten name, and a modern one with solid bands top and bottom. Both are laid out landscape, which is how certificates are normally printed, with portrait available if you prefer it.

The name is set in a handwriting face on the classic template so it reads as filled in rather than typed. If you are producing a stack of them, change the name, export, change it again — each export takes a second or two.

Export as PDF: it prints at exactly A4 or Letter with no scaling, and it is harder to casually alter than a PNG, which matters a little for something meant to certify anything.

How to use it

  1. Choose A4 landscape, US Letter or A4 portrait.
  2. Load the classic or modern template.
  3. Fill in the recipient, what it is for, and the date.
  4. Export as PDF and print it, ideally on heavier paper.

Frequently asked questions

What size should a certificate be?

A4 landscape (297 × 210 mm) in most of the world, US Letter landscape (11 × 8.5 in) in North America. Both are here, plus A4 portrait.

Can I add a signature?

Write it on paper, photograph it, and add it as a photo layer — or sign the exported PDF properly with <a href="/sign-pdf/">sign PDF</a>, which lets you draw, type or upload a signature.

Can I add a logo or a seal?

Yes, as a photo layer. A transparent PNG sits on the background cleanly; a circular crop makes a convincing seal.

How do I make a batch for a whole class?

Change the name and export again for each person. There is no mail-merge here. If you end up with a folder of PDFs, <a href="/merge-pdf/">merge PDF</a> will join them into one document to print.

Does a certificate made here mean anything officially?

Only as much as whoever issues it. This produces a document; it confers nothing on its own, and it should not be used to imply an accreditation you do not have.

What paper should I print it on?

Anything heavier than normal office paper — 160 gsm or more — makes a large difference. Print at 100%, not "fit to page".

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