Graduation & Commencement FAQ
What is the difference between Graduation and Commencement?
Graduation refers to the term in which you have officially and successfully completed all of your graduation requirements. You must apply for the term in which you plan to graduate through your Student Center in BroncoDirect. Once grades are posted, your record will be evaluated and if all requirements are met, your degree will be awarded.
Commencement is often referred to as "Graduation," but in reality there is a difference. Commencement is the ceremony and celebration for students projected to successfully complete all of their graduation requirements by the end of Spring Quarter or those that completed the summer, fall or winter before. You will not receive a diploma at the Commencement ceremony. Confirmation of degree completion will not take place until official grades are posted.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Although your College Advisor can help you read your Degree Progress Report (DPR), it's VITAL that you perform a Graduation Self-Check to double-check and verify your eligibility for Graduation. This Self-Check will also help you with your CPP Connect Planner!
You may apply for graduation when the application period for your final semester becomes available. In general, this is usually during the semester prior to your final semester. Visit the Graduation website for specific deadlines.
You will access the graduation application from your Student Center in BroncoDirect and you must pay the application fee. Before you apply, you can review the Steps to Senior Success to ensure you have the information necessary to confidently apply for graduation.
The University will post the policy for Early Commencement Participation (ECP) each year. You can visit the page now to see what the current policy says, but keep in mind that any updates will be posted in Spring of each year.