Commencement Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for an exception to walk at a different ceremony then the one I have been assigned to?
Candidates completing requirements for a degree in December or May will be invited to participate in their respective ceremonies. Candidates completing requirements for August are invited to attend the following December ceremony. Exceptions to this policy are made for extenuating circumstances and if ceremony capacity allows for it. If requesting to walk early, students must be enrolled in all remaining degree requirements and have applied for graduation.
Honors status is based on cumulative GPA at the beginning of the last required semester therefore, graduates requesting to walk early are not eligible to receive honors cords or medallions.
Please note exception forms are reviewed in the semester in which the exception is being requested for. For example, requests to walk in December are reviewed in October/November and requests to walk in May are reviewed some time in February/March. Dates are subject to change based on ceremony schedule and planning timeline.
Where can I find my commencement photos?
Graduates can find their commencement photos by visiting GradImage's website and entering their information.
Are any additional tickets available?
No additional tickets are available.
Do children require a ticket?
Children under 3 years of age do not require a ticket.
How do I receive my diploma if I do not participate in commencement?
Diplomas are not distributed at commencement. Your diploma will be mailed to your permanent address approximately 4-6 weeks following the commencement ceremony. after your degree has been posted to your transcript. Check the Graduation table in Degree Progress and look for the application status of "Degree Awarded" to know if your degree has been posted to your transcript. Your diploma will list your name as it appears on your application for graduation, degree title, major and applicable honors (undergraduate honors only). Graduates with unpaid financial obligations may have a hold placed on their diploma and transcript until the debt is resolved.
Will the ceremonies be livestreamed?
Yes, all ceremonies will be livestreamed on our website for family and friends who are unable to attend in person. A recorded version will be available following the ceremony.
Is there an option for graduates to participate virtually?
Graduates are welcome to watch the live stream, however only the names of graduates in attendance in-person will be announced. All eligible graduate names are included in the digital commencement programs that can be found online.
Can Class of 2020 graduates participate in a future commencement ceremony?
Yes. 2020 graduates whose ceremonies were canceled due to the pandemic have an open invitation to participate in any future commencement ceremony. Graduates who would like to participate should complete the Commencement Participation Request form.