Graduation Resources
- It's the responsibility of the graduating student to complete the application for graduation. If a student has a question or concern about eligibility, contact the department/program coordinator as soon as possible. Department approval is necessary in order to be eligible to participate in commencement, have a name printed in the program, and for the degree to be granted.
- Fall/Winter deadline - If you are planning to complete all graduation degree requirements in the fall (December 2023) or winter (January 2024) semester you must complete the graduation application through Banner Self Service by September 29th. If your graduation application is not received by September 29th your name and honors may not be listed in the graduation program and tickets may not be available for your guests.
Access this Guide on Entering and Submitting Your Graduation Application
- Spring/Summer deadline Feb. 1
Tickets will be required for admittance to the ceremony. Six (6) guests per graduate will be permitted. Additional guests will not be permitted inside the Haas Center and tickets are non-transferrable. Time and location pick up TBD.
All seating for guests is on a first-come basis for guests/supporters.
All students will be seated as directed in the appropriate area based on their degree (Doctoral or Master) or undergraduate college.
All students participating in commencement must wear academic regalia. If you have a U.S. armed forces issued uniform, that is the only other acceptable attire to be worn in place of academic regalia.
Cap, Gown and Tassels should be ordered through the University Store. Please contact them at 570-389-4175 or visit their website.
Video Tutorials
Parking will be located near the Andruss Library. Handicap spaces will be available and a handicap placard or license plate is necessary. Please follow posted signs and direction of the police.
- Haas is equipped with ADA seating for individuals in wheelchairs, motorized carts, etc. These seats are first come, first serve and are located on the first level of the auditorium.
- If the graduate or a supporter needs ASL interpretation please email sbissinger@commonwealth.edu to reserve seats near the interpreter.
- Honors for undergraduate commencement are based on the cumulative grade point average for the semester prior to the final semester. Honors for the diploma and final transcript are based on the cumulative grade point average, including the final semester. To receive Ceremonial Distinction baccalaureate students may have the 30 credit hours in progress at the time of distinction. Please refer to PRP 3640 for full policy details.
- Honors are as follows: Cum Laude, 3.50 to 3.74; Magna Cum Laude, 3.75 to 3.94; and Summa Cum Laude, 3.95 to 4.00.
These are handled through the Obiter Yearbook. More details can be found on their website.
Island Photography will be onsite taking photos of each graduate. All graduates will receive copies of the proofs for them to view and order as desired. Pictures are taken at no cost to the student and ordering is optional.
Any questions regarding photos after the event ends should be directed to Island Photography.
Live stream video feed will start 15 minutes before the ceremony begins. Within an hour after each ceremony, it will become available for on demand playback via the same link.
If you received federal loans you must complete exit counseling at studentaid.gov.
Following the commencement ceremony and/or the last day of your graduation term several checks occur before you are officially graduated from the University.
- Once grades are posted, the Office of the Registrar completes a final review of each graduating student's general education requirements and other degree requirements
- After this is complete, the Office of the Registrar will confer your degree.
- If there are concerns with your degree requirements you will be notified.
This process may take up to six weeks to complete. Once conferred, your degree will appear on your unofficial transcript within MyHusky and on your official transcripts.
Graduates may contact Dr. Sherry Briggs, teacher certification coordinator, for assistance with the online application process. Anticipated processing time for applications on campus is three weeks eight to ten weeks in Harrisburg. For more on certification and required testing:
