A seal configuration is provided for a fuel cell stack, including a first bipolar plate and a second bipolar plate, each disposed on opposite sides of a membrane electrode assembly. The seal configuration includes a first sub-gasket adhered to a recess region of the first bipolar plate and a second sub-gasket adhered to a recess region of the second bipolar plate wherein the first and second sub-gaskets are disposed on opposite sides of the membrane electrode assembly. A seal member is disposed in the recessed regions of the first and second bipolar plates and between the first and second sub-gaskets. The seal configuration minimizes the size of the bypass regions around the seal perimeter and provide better control of the positions of all components during assembly of the fuel cell stack. The approach also reduces sensitivity to ambient relative humidity variations and reduces manufacturing costs by eliminating the need for humidity control in the production area.