Commencement

Details regarding the Spring 2024 Commencement can be found here. 

IMPORTANT NOTICE: You must be a degree candidate to receive communications regarding Commencement. For information on how to apply for graduation, please visit our Graduation Information page.

Please note that applying for graduation means you are applying for an academic credential (i.e. degree/certificate). Commencement is the ceremony held to celebrate UM’s graduating class. The commencement ceremony is a celebration and does not imply conferral of a degree.

FAQ:

Q: What is a degree candidate?

A: A degree candidate is a student who applied for graduation by submitting a graduation application.

Q: Do I need to submit a graduation application to receive information about Commencement?

A: Yes. Please work with your advisor to submit a graduation application. You must also apply for graduation to receive your degree.

Q: Is graduation the same thing as Commencement.

A: While these words are often used interchangeable, they are not the same. Graduation is the process by which an academic credential is applied to a student’s record. Commencement is a ceremony held to celebrate those who are expected to receive a degree or certificate.

Q: Does attending Commencement mean I earned my degree?

A: No. Degrees are conferred at a later date after grades have rolled to student accounts and all degree requirements have been evaluated by a graduation coordinator or specialist on campus.

Q: Will I receive my degree at Commencement?

A: No. Degrees are conferred later. Degree Candidates receive a diploma cover that can be used to hold your diploma. Diplomas are mailed to the diploma mailing address listed on your graduation application.