Commencement
What is the difference between graduation and commencement?
Graduation
Graduation is the official awarding of your degree. There are three graduation terms each year: Fall, Spring, and Summer. Students should contact the Graduation Unit with questions regarding completion of degree requirements, degree conferral, and diplomas.
Commencement
Commencement is the optional event which celebrates the completion (or anticipated completion) of degree programs. Commencement is held once a year in the spring, for the three graduation terms of the preceding academic year: Fall, Spring, and Summer. Students should refer to Registering for Commencement and visit the commencement office for details and questions about the ceremonies.
Once you have completed the graduation check process, whether graduate or undergraduate, you are eligible to participate in the commencement ceremony appropriate to your graduation date:
- If you graduated in Fall 2023 (January 2024) or become a candidate for Spring (May) 2024 or Summer (August) 2024 graduation, you will be eligible to participate in the Spring 2024 commencement ceremonies.
- If you graduate in Fall 2024 (January 2025) or become a candidate for Spring (May) 2025 or Summer (August) 2025 graduation, you will be eligible to participate in the Spring 2025 commencement ceremonies.
