Checklist for grads
In order to take part in ceremonies, you must both apply for graduation and register for Commencement—in addition to taking a few other steps.
Graduation vs. Commencement
Graduation and Commencement are two different things.
Graduation
Satisfying all academic requirements (university, college, and departmental) for a degree
Commencement
Ceremony officiated by the University president that recognizes graduates’ achievements
Participation in the Commencement ceremony is not a guarantee or an indication of degree completion.
Grad checklist
Complete the following tasks before Commencement.
Mandatory tasks
Required to participate in Commencement ceremonies.
Apply to graduate
Apply through the Office of the Registrar or the Graduate School.
For your name to appear in the Commencement program, you must submit your application to graduate by the deadline: the first Friday in October for Fall and the first Friday in March for Spring.
*** Plan to complete the asterisked tasks at the Virtual Grad Fair.
Get everything done fast at the Virtual Grad Fair
Virtual Grad Fair is a one-stop-shop for completing pre-Commencement tasks. You can register to participate in ceremonies, rent regalia, and more. Plus, you can get discounts on grad packages—things like regalia rentals, announcements, and diploma frames.
Tues., Oct. 27–Thur., Oct. 29
9am–3pm
Online (Download the Grad Fair app)
Plan to complete the asterisked tasks at the Virtual Grad Fair.
Recommended tasks
Rent academic regalia ***
Reserve your cap and gown.
Update your records
Keep your information up to date in University records.
- Unlisted records: If you have an “unlisted” restriction on your WSU directory record, the University cannot include your name and degree in the Commencement program. It also cannot include your name on the Commencement t-shirt. If you have this restriction on your record and would like it removed, follow instructions to release directory information
- Name changes: To verify the name on your diploma, contact the Office of the Registrar or the Graduate School.
Complete the 1-minute job placement survey ***
Information collected is used to develop career and academic programming for WSU students.
Review your student account and loans ***
- Student account status: Ensure that there is no balance due that could delay delivery of your diploma.
- Federal loans: Check with Student Financial Services to see if you need to complete exit counseling.
International student? Contact the Office of International Programs ***
Let them know your post-graduation plans by filling out the Program Completion Form.
Purchase announcements, commemorative merchandise, and portraits ***
Tell (and invite) your family and friends
Sending grad announcements? Check the list of degrees by college, so you’re sure to cite yours correctly.
Inviting international visitors? See suggestions for helping them obtain a visitors’ visa.
Join the Alumni Association ***
Your membership connects you to the vast Cougar network after you graduate.
*** Plan to complete the asterisked tasks at the Virtual Grad Fair.
Questions about graduation?
Undergraduate and professional degrees
Office of the Registrar
509-335-9506
wsu.graduations@wsu.edu
Include your student ID number in communications.
Graduate degrees
Graduate School
509-335-6424
gradsch@wsu.edu