If your degree certificate is delayed by your university and your government job document verification (DV) is approaching, you’re not alone. Many aspirants face this situation after completing graduation or post-graduation. Let’s understand whether this delay can impact your job selection — and what you can do about it.
Is a Degree Certificate Mandatory for DV?
Yes, most government exams — SSC, UPSC, State PSCs, Banking, Railways, and Teaching — require proof of your educational qualification during document verification.
You’re typically expected to present:
- Original Degree Certificate OR
- Provisional Degree Certificate (if degree not yet issued)
What If the Degree Is Delayed?
If your university hasn’t issued the degree yet, you can usually submit:
- Provisional Degree Certificate
- Final year/semester mark sheets
- Online result or university letter confirming completion
Most recruitment boards accept these documents temporarily, provided your final result is declared before the cut-off date mentioned in the notification.
Examples from Recruitment Boards
SSC CGL/CHSL: Educational qualification must be attained by the application closing date. Provisional certificate is accepted if valid.
UPSC: Provisional certificate from a recognized university is valid if it clearly mentions the passing date.
State PSCs: Some allow submission of pending documents within a fixed grace period — but only with prior permission.
No Provisional Certificate? What Happens?
If you don’t have either your degree certificate or provisional:
- You may be disqualified at the DV stage.
- Exceptions are rare and depend on the board’s discretion.
- Always email or call the board in advance to clarify your situation.
What Should You Do Immediately?
- Apply for a Provisional Certificate from your university.
- Request an official letter from the Controller of Examinations stating you’ve passed.
- Keep a screenshot/PDF of your online result.
- Gather your final semester mark sheets.
- Email the recruitment board to confirm if provisional documents are acceptable.
Fast-Track Tip
If your university is delaying unnecessarily, consider filing an RTI (Right to Information) to speed up the process.
Key Takeaway
- Don’t wait — apply for provisional documents as soon as your result is declared.
- Document everything — keep proof that you passed before the cut-off date.
- Communicate early with the recruitment board if in doubt.
Your Experience Matters
Have you attended DV without a degree certificate?
Did they accept provisional or mark sheets?
Share your experience below — it might help thousands of others.