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Commencement FAQs

How many tickets will graduates get for their respective ceremony?
That number will be determined and shared during the spring 2025 semester and that information will be made available on the DSU Commencement website.

Will there be a process to request extra tickets?
We will disseminate extra tickets (if any) on a first come first serve basis. We will share information on how to submit a request as we get closer to commencement.

I cannot attend rehearsal, what should I do?
You should report to the line up location on the day of commencement on time to receive any instructions. Commencement is on Friday, May 9, 2025.

  • Undergraduate students should arrive on campus at 6:30 a.m. for the 8:00 a.m. ceremony
  • Graduate students should arrive on campus at 11:30 a.m. for the 1:00 p.m. ceremony

Now that my graduation application and senior audit have been complete, what are my next steps?  What if I have not completed a senior audit, or application for graduation?
Students should reach out the academic advisor and department to ensure that applications and audits are done correctly and check the DSU email regularly for updates and information related to commencement. The graduation application/audit process starts with the advisor.

What is the difference between the graduation audit and the graduation application?
The application has demographic information - how you want your name to appear on the diploma, the college you are in and your major, and the mailing address. The audit lists the courses that are upcoming to make sure that you are scheduled and are meeting the curriculum requirements.

What if I am not receiving information regarding commencement?
To date, no mass emails have been sent regarding commencement. As we begin this process, perspective graduates are encouraged to check their DSU email regularly for updates. 

Where can I find senior pictures information, and can we use props during our photo shoot?
DSU is partnering with Lifetouch© Photography.  We will post the sign-up link on the DSU Commencement Page during the Spring 2025 semester. Students may use props (examples include sports equipment, items associated with a major, e.g. camera equipment, art tools, science beakers, stethoscope, etc.). Students should refrain from using items that are restricted in the student handbook and must be tasteful if incorporated into the photo shoot.

Students can schedule photo shoots with external photographers at their own expense.

What is included when I order my regalia and what is the costs? Can I get a 2024 tassel? Are stoles included in the price of my regalia?
The regalia package includes a basic cap, gown, hood and tassel. The tassels have the DSU insignia and now graduate year.  Stoles are not part of commencement package but can be purchased from the bookstore after April 20, 2025.

Where can I find information regarding any outstanding balances?
If students have holds on their transcript they should contact student accounts to find out what the specific holds are related to and pay the necessary fees to be cleared to participate in commencement.

If I take winter classes and complete the course, will I be able to participate in commencement during the spring?
Yes, as long as the student has met all of the academic and financial requirements.

Can our caps be decorated?
Yes but any mortar board décor must be tasteful.

Do we get any email for the exit interview or the first destination survey? If I did not utilize financial aid, do I still need to do an exit interview?
The First Destination Survey is emailed to all students that have completed the process for graduation. December 2024 eligible students have until December 6, 2024 to complete the survey. The May 2025 survey will be emailed in March 2025 or students should look for an email from Dr. Bina Daniels who sends that information out.

When will graduates receive their degrees?
Master’s students who are December 2024 graduates should receive diplomas between then end of January 2025 and prior to the first two weeks in February 2025 (this is contingent on whether the graduate has submitted all documentation in the time allotted).

If you are graduating in May 2025 you can expect to receive your diploma by the end of July 2025. Degrees will be conferred by the end of June 2025 and students can begin to request transcripts at that time.

If you have a summer 2025 course this means that you will not participate in the May 2025 ceremony and that you will receiving your diploma in August, 2025.

What is a plan of study?
In the graduate school this is an elevated curriculum which takes into consideration transfer credits, work experience or other information considered towards the student’s matriculation. This plan of study is developed in partnership with the graduate office and the student. This is a contract which outlines how graduate students will navigate through the program.

When do I need to pay my balance?
Final bills for graduating seniors must be paid by two-weeks prior to commencement date. If there are any financial obligations a hold will be placed on the account and the diploma and transcript will not be released.

If you have a 3.5 or higher do you receive any awards?
Undergraduate students are acknowledged in the commencement program book as follows:

  • Summa Cum Laude [Latin] — with the greatest praise GPA 3.75 and above
  • Magna Cum Laude [Latin] — with high honors GPA 3.50 to 3.74
  • Cum Laude [Latin] — with praise GPA 3.25 to 3.49
  • Honorable Mention Transfer students with 60+ credits GPA of 3.5 and above

How can I order transcripts?
Follow this link to order a transcript via the Student Clearinghouse https://www.studentclearinghouse.org/

If we have a graduation fee in our banner, does that mean our graduation application was submitted?
You should check with your advisor to make sure the application and audit have been submitted and received by the Registrar.

Can classes on audit be changed after submission?
It is recommended that you check with your academic advisor if you need to change a course after the audit has been submitted, as you want to make sure that you are taking the appropriate courses. If changes are made they Registrar will update this.

Will commencement ceremonies be live streamed?
Yes. A link will be provided the week of commencement.