Graduation is an exciting milestone. You’ve completed your classes, and now it’s time to celebrate! But before you step onto the stage in your cap and gown, it’s important to understand the difference between graduation and commencement.
Graduation vs. Commencement
Graduation
The official fulfillment of academic requirements, resulting in the awarding of your degree and diploma.
Commencement
The ceremony where graduates, dressed in academic regalia, are recognized by university leadership and faculty.
Attending commencement does not mean you’ve officially graduated. Only the Office of the Registrar can confirm your graduation status and issue your diploma. Check with your advisor and review the Registrar’s website to confirm your eligibility.
If you’ve been approved for graduation, congratulations! You’re eligible to participate in commencement and be recognized for your achievements. Take the next steps by following the Graduate Checklist.
Apply for Graduation
There are four key steps to prepare for graduation:
- Complete all academic requirements for your program, including core classes, electives and degree-specific courses. Check your Panther Degree Audit on MyFIU to track your progress.
- Clear all financial obligations to the university, including tuition, parking tickets, registration fees and any outstanding balances.
- Meet with your advisor to ensure you’re on track and understand the graduation process.
- Submit your graduation application before the deadline. To apply, log into MyFIU, navigate to Campus Solutions Self Service > Degree Progress/Graduation > Apply for Graduation, and follow the instructions.
Check the Academic Calendar for application deadlines. If you need help, visit the Office of the Registrar for more details.
FERPA Notice
Students with a FERPA restriction on their records will not be included in the Commencement Booklet or any Virtual Commencement Ceremonies. If you want to be included, you must provide written consent to OneStop at least three weeks before the graduation application deadline for the term.
You can also remove your FERPA restriction online through MyFIU by the graduation application deadline.
For more details, visit the FIU FERPA website.