Graduation Information: Graduation FAQs

Check out our Graduation Guide for the most comprehensive graduation information. It provides answers to most questions you may have about your big event.

What is the status of my graduation application? when will I know if I’m cleared to graduate?

After the application deadline, your advisor will begin reviewing your degree plan to make sure you are on schedule to graduate. They will submit a grad check form to the graduation office. Once we (the graduation office) receive them, we will do an additional check of your requirements and then email you with your status. This step can take almost the entire semester, so we appreciate your patience. If you have questions about your status, please contact your advisor.

When do I get my cap and gown?

We recommend ordering your cap and gown after the graduation application deadline. You do not have to wait for clearance or approval to order. Please note: The graduation application fee does not cover the cost of your gown, and the graduation application form is not the same as your gown order form.

To order, please contact or visit the Texas Book Company, 903.886.5830.

Do I need to purchase a stole and/or cords?

Purchasing a university stole is optional. All other stoles worn should be academic in nature. For details, please visit Commencement Regalia (Cap and Gown) and Merchandise. While the Veteran’s Office, individual departments or select student organizations may choose to provide cords to their graduates, the university as a whole does not provide or sell cords in general. For students with academic distinction, we provide medallions on the day of the ceremony.

Do I get anything for having academic distinction?

Please visit the Academic Distinction and Honors page for details. We provide a medallion to you at the ceremony, your distinction is announced along with your name, and you are recognized in the program. Academic distinction is only recognized for undergraduates.

When is the ceremony?

The dates of the ceremony are posted at the beginning of each semester on the Ceremony Details page. Times are updated on the same page AFTER the application deadline.

When and how many tickets can we get?

Ticket information is updated AFTER the application deadline on the Ticket Information page. We calculate tickets in a manner that allows us to allocate as many tickets as possible to each student while still maintaining safety regulations.

All guests (regardless of age, including infants and toddlers) must have a ticket. Tickets are free of charge and are for general admission. Graduates do not need a ticket.

What do I do if I need to change the information I provided on my graduation application?

Email our office at [email protected].

What time are graduates required to arrive at the ceremony?

Graduates need to arrive at the ceremony location at least 45 minutes prior to the ceremony start time to receive their name card, academic distinction medals (if applicable), and their instructions for lining up, seating, and walking.

What time do the doors open for guests?

Doors open for guests one hour prior to the start of the ceremony.

Where should visitors park their vehicles?

Please go to the Ceremony Details for parking information and a campus map.

Where can I go to take an individual graduation picture?

During the ceremony, you will have your picture taken two times by a professional photographer. Flash Photography is pleased to provide this complimentary service for each graduate who crosses the stage during the commencement ceremony. If a valid e-mail address is available to the photographer, a link to commencement photograph proofs will also be sent to participating graduate’s via e-mail. For more information about your photos, please feel free to contact the photography company, Flash Photography, at their business website.

I cleared the hold on my account; when can I get my diploma?

We are not notified when your hold is cleared, so you will need to email our office at [email protected] to let us know and to request release of your diploma. Please include your CWID and the address where you want the diploma sent.

I’ve completed my degree requirements; why do I have to wait to get my diploma?

The university offers a variety of programs, some of which allow students to accelerate their pace and complete requirements early. Degrees are only awarded at the end of each semester (fall, spring, and summer II), regardless of whether or not requirements are met early.

Does participation in the ceremony mean I graduated?

No, a student officially graduates when their degree is awarded.

Will the commencement ceremony be live streamed?

Yes, the link will be posted on the Ceremony Details page 1-2 weeks before the ceremony.