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Details to Know Before You Apply to Graduate...

CONGRATULATIONS on your upcoming graduation!

 

You are now close enough to Apply for GRADUATION! As you approach your graduation, there are many things to be aware of to ensure you have met all requirements, signed all forms, and submitted all documents required for graduation. Read over this essential information and mark your calendars for upcoming dates, deadlines and other requirements. Please be aware that participation in the commencement ceremony does not mean that you have graduated. Every student must apply to graduate from the University. There are Four (4) Steps to the Apply to Graduate Process (see below and more information further down): 

  • Step 1: Read this website of information. All students are required to read, understand, and comply with the information on this website. 

 

  • Step 2: Apply to Graduate via your MyMemphis account (Important: When you reach the application, first select your current or most recent term of enrollment. You will select your graduation date a few screens into the application).

    • After you completely read this entire webpage, login/return to your myMemphis portal.
    • Click on the My Degree tab and then locate the Commencement Channel to access Step 2 (Apply to Graduate) by the Deadline. Deadlines are strictly upheld (see bottom of page for deadlines).
    • Select your Degree Program.
    • FIRST, select your current or last term of enrollment term.
    • Select your Graduation Date. Terms of selection are (May, August & December of each year).
    • Important: We ONLY host Commencement Twice (2) a Year (December and May Only). August graduates participate in the December combined ceremonies (August and December together) Commencement ceremonies. 

 

  • Step 3: Immediately after Step 2's submission, submit Step 3. This is the Cap and Gown & Diploma Mailing Form (Required by ALL degree-seeking students regardless of attendance).

 

  • Step 4:  Attendance and Non-Attendance Required Form (Will be sent to all graduating students in their final semester and will only be sent to those students who are approved. Required by ALL degree-seeking students regardless of attendance).

 

Commencement Vs. Graduation

  • Every student must submit an application to graduate from the University. 
  • An application for graduation is required. 
  • You apply for the term you plan to complete all of your degree requirements. 
  • It is important to understand that commencement and graduation are related, but they are not exactly the same thing. Commencement is the optional celebration of your accomplishment. Graduation is the process of completing your academic work, successfully, and obtaining an actual degree in your studies (diploma).  For academic related questions, please contact your college/advisor. For all questions related to commencement and surrounding activities and diplomas, please contact commencement@memphis.edu.  
  • While we believe everyone should celebrate this incredible accomplishment, attendance is optional. It is a personal preference to attend the actual ceremony or not. However, if you choose not to participate, we do not provide gowns, etc. Only participants receive regalia to be worn at the ceremony and returned after use at the ceremony.  
  • For us to include you in any commencement, you must register for it (Step 4) or respond to the email with a yes. Whether, online or in-person, a graduate must inform us by the deadline we provide (typically 6 weeks or more prior to any event) if attending. It is the graduate's responsibility to meet and comply with all deadlines. Failure to respond by deadlines will result in exclusion in ceremonies. We collabrate with vendors and processes that must be completed several weeks prior to commencement ceremonies. So, make sure you respond to emails sent to your University of Memphis email. We try our best to accommodate everyone, but we need your help to ensure your commencement and graduation process runs as smoothly as possible. We must work together. Do not wait until days before or even weeks before a ceremony to be included. While we want you to have the best experience, we cannot add you after deadlines have passed. Please meet all deadlines and respond to all emails timely. If you do not understand something or you do not receive confirmation, ask us! 
  • Students are not granted permission to participate earlier than they are approved to graduate.
  • Students can participate in Commencement ONE TIME per degree. 

 

Certification is the actual degree conferral, contingent upon your successful fulfillment of all of the requirements for receiving a degree, certificate in your field as described in the Catalog of your Academic Program/College or School requirements of the University of Memphis. For undergraduate students receiving honors, the distinction is based on your previous semester’s GPA.

After the ceremony and once all grades have been certified by your college, you will receive your final GPA and appropriate honors status. Graduate Students do not receive honors distinction. By reading this required information, you understand that your participation in the commencement ceremony does not mean you will graduate officially; degree conferral depends upon successful completion of all of the degree requirements described in the Undergraduate Catalog and Graduate School and Department Requirements. For questions about your Application after submitting or your academic information (grades, when to file, majors, minors, GPA, etc.), contact your Advisor or Graduation Analyst Contact. Applying for Graduation is completely online. No paper applications! 

Our office is an events office and often closed to visitors. Please contact us via email only, commencement@memphis.edu.

Prerequisites to Applying to Graduate at the University of Memphis

  • Early participation is not allowed. You will participate in the ceremony when you are officially graduating.
  • We host Commencement Twice (2) a Year (December and May Only). August graduates participate in the December combined ceremonies (August and December together) Commencement ceremonies. 
  • Summer graduation is not going away. Summer Commencement is simply combined with December for a combined December and summer ceremony to be held in December each year. There is no separate summer commencement at the University of Memphis. 
  • The first portion of the application will ask you to select your last or current term of enrollment. You will select your actual graduation term a little later in the process of questions.
  • We do NOT allow anyone to participate with the graduate. Only the graduate is allowed on the event level and on stage (no parents, guests, children, etc.). We do not allow proposals or the like at the ceremony.
  • All emails are sent to your Memphis email. It is important for you to keep up with all messages and check your Memphis email often.
  • All Steps of the Apply to Graduate /Commencement Process are required. Read more below.
  • If you have more than one major and the majors fall within the same degree, you will not receive two diplomas. (Example: You cannot earn more than one Bachelor of Arts degree). 
  • Read this page (Step 1) thoroughly to avoid confusion and misunderstandings about the graduation process. If you have more questions or need more explanation, email us at commencement@memphis.edu.
  • A graduating student can only participate one time for the degree they are receiving.
  • A student must be approved and enrolled in final coursework to participate in Commencement.
  • Majors, minors, concentrations, and the like are not placed on the diploma. The diploma will list the Degree Name.
  • All deadlines must be met.
  • Diplomas are mailed from the processor and never available for pickup.
  • Diplomas are always mailed 4 months after each Commencement. If your address changes, you are to notify commencement@memphis.edu no later than 1 (one) month after your Commencement Day. 
  • More detailed explanation is below, and all information must be read and understood.
  • By applying for graduation, you agree to all that is listed on this page, in the Catalog for your degree program and all policies within the University. 
  • The Commencement Program is a public document. Therefore, it will list the names of all approved degree seeking students (some names may be listed who are not approved based on the date of notification). If a student wants name removed, the student must make a request in writing to commencement@memphis.edu by our Step 4 deadline. The name will automatically list and will only be removed by written request of the deadline. After the programs are approved, printed, and published on our University Libraries or other University of Memphis website, the name cannot be changed, removed or altered in any way. 
  • Notice: We are NOT responsible for lost, stolen, items left behind, theft, damage to vehicles, or personal injury of any kind. No property should be tampered, destroyed, or mishandled in any way by any graduate or guests attending. Attendance in the Commencement ceremony and events are completely optional, and decisions made to attend by the graduating student and any guests who choose to come on their own accord.

More Information about The Steps to Apply for Graduation: 1, 2, 3 & 4 

  • Step 1: Read this website of information. It is REQUIRED. 

  • Step 2: Apply to Graduate via your MyMemphis account & submit any required College of School forms based off of your major/department or college. Check with your advisor on College and School form requirements.

    • After you completely read this entire webpage, login/return to your myMemphis portal.
    • Click on the My Degree tab and then locate the Commencement Channel to access Step 2 (Apply to Graduate) by the Deadline. Deadlines are strictly upheld (see bottom of page for deadlines).
    • Select your Degree Program.
    • FIRST, select your current or last term of enrollment term.
    • Select your Graduation Date.
    • An email will be sent to your Memphis email confirming your application is submitted after successful completion of the application.
    • You can view your submitted application by selecting "View Application to Graduate".
    • If you are graduating with more than one degree, you must complete an application for each degree. For example, select the College of Arts and Sciences' Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in Psychology. Submit the application. Return to Apply to Graduate to select your second degree, complete the application, and submit.
    • If you decide after your application submission that you want to change your date of graduation, contact your Graduation Analyst. The Graduation Analyst is the only individual who can change your date of graduation.
    • Immediately after Step 2's submission, submit Step 3.
    • Additional Information for Graduate Students (Doctoral, Specialists, Masters, Graduate Certificates) Must Also Complete the Candidacy Form and other Requirements to be included and approved for graduation. It is a REQUIREMENT. 

  • Step 3: Immediately after Step 2's submission, submit Step 3. This is the Cap and Gown & Diploma Mailing Form (Required by ALL degree-seeking students regardless of attendance)

  • Step 4:  Attendance and Non-Attendance Required Form (Required by ALL degree-seeking students regardless of attendance)

    • Step 4 will be sent to your Memphis email address in your final semester, once you are officially approved for graduation. It is REQUIRED. It is your responsibility to check your email daily and keep up with all requirements. 

    • ATTENTION: Students must be approved for graduation prior to being able to participate and remain on the graduation list. If you are lacking any coursework, lacking any REQUIRED forms, etc., this will affect your approval status and delay your graduation until that coursework is met.
  • Who is eligible to apply for graduation: 
    • Undergraduates – at least 80 earned hours towards degree completion and at least a 1.95 GPA
    • Graduates (Doctoral, Specialists, Masters, Graduate Certificates) ­­– 3.00 GPA (Must Apply for Graduation and SUBMIT a CANDIDACY FORM to the Graduate School)
    • Law – 55 hours, 1.90 GPA
    • Must be in good standing with the University in all ways. 
  • All emails are sent to your Memphis email. It is important for you to keep up with all messages and check your Memphis email often.
  • All Steps of the Apply to Graduate /Commencement Process are required. Read more below.
  • If you have more than one major and the majors fall within the same degree, you will not receive two diplomas. (Example: You cannot earn more than one Bachelor of Arts degree). Read more at Step 1. Read Step 1 thoroughly to avoid confusion and misunderstandings about the graduation process. If you have more questions or need more explanation, email us at commencement@memphis.edu.
  • Majors, minors, concentrations, and the like are not placed on the diploma. The diploma will list the Degree Name.
  • All deadlines must be met.

 

Understanding Second Majors, Double Degrees and Majors

  • Second majors do not participate in the ceremony. Second majors do not receive a second diploma.
  • The university recognizes degrees. Although a student has a major area, we award degrees specifically.  If your major falls within the same degree area or under the same degree name, this is considered a second major. If you or your Advisor do not clearly understand this process, contact your Graduation Analyst who are the experts in the area.
  • Example: If you obtained a Bachelor of Arts from the College of Communication and Fine Arts in 2000 with a major of Journalism, and then, you return to put more work into a major in History in 2025, this is considered a second major. Why? Although history is under the College of Arts & Sciences, both Journalism and History would earn a student a Bachelor of Arts degree (same degree type). You cannot receive more than one degree in the same name. Therefore, the Bachelor of Arts diploma earned in 2000 is the diploma that stands. The additional/second major would be on the transcript only. A second major permits a student to have two different majors while overlapping coursework generally requiring less coursework than a dual/double major. 
  • Double Degrees do warrant a second diploma:  The other major must be under a completely different degree type AND unlike second majors, dual/double degrees will require additional coursework —most times doubling the coursework of an individual who only obtains a second major since the coursework is typically in common for the second major. 
  • Majors are not listed on the diploma. A student can have 3 majors and none of them will be listed on the diploma. Major will list on the transcript. Concentrations and minors are not on diplomas. 

 

Deadlines

Undergraduate Deadlines 

  • May 2025 -Deadline: November 6, 2024 
  • August 2025 - Deadline: April 2, 2025
  • December 2025 - Deadline: July 2, 2025
  • May 2026 - Deadline: November 5, 2025

 

Graduate School Deadlines- (Doctoral, Specialists, Masters and Graduate Certificates)

 

Law School Deadlines

 

More Details about Graduation, Applying and Commencement

  • All communications will be sent to your Memphis email address. It is your responsibility to ensure you are checking your Memphis email account regularly for messages from the Commencement Office, advisors and academic officers. It is a good practice to check it daily. 

  • All students approved to graduate are automatically added the Commencement Program each graduating semester. Therefore, it is the student's responsibility to let us know if you want your name to be excluded from the commencement program by our Step 4 deadline. The name is automatically printed unless we hear from the student via email in a timely fashion. 

  • Student records are checked by the College Graduation Analyst. These individuals tell us who is approved to graduate and go into the commencement program. If there is ever an issue with GPA, courses, etc., please contact the Graduation Analyst for your specific college.

  • EARLY Participation is not allowed at the University of Memphis. All students must be approved for the current term in order to participate in the commencement ceremony. You cannot participate early for any reason. If you are not in your final required coursework for graduation, you are not eligible for graduation and thus not available to participate in Commencement. If you have questions about this, contact the Commencement Office. Academic Advisors cannot determine your right to participate early in the Commencement ceremonies. 

  • Students receiving the Graduate Certificate do NOT participate in any commencement ceremony. The event is reserved for those obtaining degrees only and your certificate will be mailed 2-3 months after the ceremony.  

  • Second Majors do NOT participate in the commencement ceremony and do NOT receive a second diploma. S

  •  Step 4 will be sent to graduates who are approved for the current term via their Memphis email address. This will be sent in the final semester. It is REQUIRED by ALL approved graduating students and failure to complete this form will result in the canceling of your graduation application.

  • It is your responsibility to ensure all requirements are met at least one month prior to commencement. Failure to do so could cause issues such as: no name listed in the program, no permission to participate in the commencement ceremony, ineligibility to graduate, disqualification from the term's graduation, etc. Deadlines are strictly enforced. This statement does not override any deadlines that need to be met for other requirements such as graduate applications and Step 4.

Any student at the University has to be approved for graduation in order to participate. The University does not allow early participation. This means, the student participates in the term/semester that he/she is approved for graduation. If you become Ineligible, Disqualified or your Approval status changes from Approved to Not Approved at any point in the semester, your name will be removed from the program and as a result, your participation in the Commencement ceremony will be cancelled.  Doctoral, Masters, Specialists: You must meet the Graduate School’s deadlines to remain approved and eligible for participation in the ceremony. Please refer to the Graduate School's website of important deadlines: https://www.memphis.edu/gradschool/current_students/graduation.php.

Undergraduate Students: If you have attended another college or university, having transfer credit in UMdegree is essential for the graduation checkout to be accurate. Please notify your advisor if you have missing transfer credits. For further questions about academic coursework, please contact your Graduation Analyst.

Graduate Students: All degree-seeking students filing for graduation are required to submit candidacy forms (masters/doctoral/certificate program/EDS Program of Study and Candidacy Form) for processing by the Graduate School. Signatures are required from the student, departmental advisor, graduate studies coordinator, and College Director of Graduate Studies. Candidacy forms received by the College Director of Graduate Studies after the semester deadline will not be approved; therefore, we strongly recommend that you submit the form to your departmental advisor at least one to two weeks prior to the Graduate School's Application deadline. Failure to submit this form will ensure that you are NOT approved for graduation; and therefore, delays your anticipated graduation date. If you are receiving a Doctoral/Master’s degree and a Graduate Certificate, you must complete two separate candidacy forms (one for your degree program and one for your graduate certificate). For further questions about academic coursework, please contact your Graduation Analyst.

Law Students: Students must return the Law School’s Graduation Checklist to the Law Registrar prior to completing the Application to Graduate. For further information about your academic coursework, contact the Law School Registrar.

Some graduates need confirmation that they have graduated from Employers, Agencies, and other Organizations. In most all cases, the organization or employer is not asking for your diploma specifically. Even if the wording says diploma, they simply need proof that you have graduated. Thus, you can simply to your MyMemphis account and find your Unofficial Transcript and locate the information on the transcript that states you have graduated. It even says the date. Continue to read on about the diploma process and how to update addresses, if needed.

Diplomas 

Upon successful review, your degree will be certified, and diploma processed. Diplomas are mailed 4 months after each commencement and not available earlier. You should ensure we have your correct address on your Graduation Application. We only use the Address on Step 3 of your Graduation Application to mail diplomas. Only contact us after 4 months if you do not have your diploma. Peers may receive their diploma before you do, but this does not mean your diploma is not mailed. Postal practices differ in various locations. If you need proof of graduation or confirmation of graduation for Employers, Agencies, and other Organizations, the organization or employer is not asking for your diploma specifically. Even if the wording says diploma, they simply need proof that you have graduated. Thus, you can visit your MyMemphis account and find your Unofficial Transcript and find the information on the transcript that says you have graduated at the time this becomes official. 

 

Updating Diploma Mailing Address

  • You have one (1) month after Commencement to update your address with our office. To update your office, email us at commencement@memphis.edu no later than one month after the commencement date. On the email include Name, Unumber, Major and New Address (Street, Apt #, City, State, Zip Code) to mail your diploma. It is your responsibility to update your address with The Commencement Office. Your receipt of this email is confirmation of your understanding. Simply updating your address on the portal does not update your diploma with this office. Update your diploma address with the Commencement Office directly as said in this email. It is your responsibility to understand this and comply. Failure to update your address one month after Commencement: If you do not update your address within the time indicated, you will be responsible for ordering a copy of your diploma on our website (There is a cost of $20.00). All diplomas are mailed standard USPS. If you do not receive your diploma and contact us with a new address-different from the one of your graduation application-you will be sent the reorder link and upon processing the diploma will be sent to the new address, you provide to us on the form. It is your responsibility to understand this.

 

Diplomas: What do they look like? What is on them? 

Diplomas will only reflect the degree name, any undergraduate honors distinctions, and undergraduate departmental honors. Majors, Minors and Concentrations are available on your transcripts and will not be placed on the diploma. Graduate Students do not have honors distinction. 

  • Student’s name as listed on Step 3 and Step 4 of the application. 
  • College or School Name 
  • Degree Name 
  • University Name 
  • Date of Graduation 
  • Undergraduate Academic honors, if earned 
  • Undergraduate College honors, if earned 
  • Undergraduate Departmental honors, if earned 
  • No, we do not have digital copies. Contact Registrar. 
  • For more information, revisit https://www.memphis.edu/commencement/apply/index.php. 

 

DIPLOMA SIZES

Bachelor

14 across x 11 down

Masters

14 x 11

Doctoral

14 x 17

Juris Doctor (law)

14 x 17

Honorary

14 x 17

Joint BioMedical

14 x 17

Graduate Certificate

8.5 x 11

 

Damaged Diplomas

  • If your first diploma arrives damaged that we will mail to you, please contact us, and send photographs of the damage (diploma, mailer, etc. must be visible in the photo and damage must be easily seen and unfiltered, etc.). We will replace the diploma and send it back to the same address it was mailed originally. 

 

Understanding Second Majors & Graduate and Undergraduate Certificates

  • Second majors do not take part in the ceremony. Second majors do not receive a second diploma.
  • The University recognizes degrees. Although a student has a major area, we award degrees specifically. If your major falls within the same degree area or under the same degree name, this is considered a second major. If you or your Advisor do not clearly understand this process, contact your Graduation Analyst who are the experts in the area. Examples: If you obtained a Bachelor of Arts from the College of Communication and Fine Arts in 2000 with a major of Journalism, and then, you return to put more work into a major in History in 2025, this is considered a second major. Why? Although history is under the College of Arts & Sciences, both Journalism and History would earn a student a Bachelor of Arts degree (same degree type).
  • You cannot receive more than one degree in the same name. Therefore, the Bachelor of Arts diploma earned in 2000 is the diploma that stands. The additional/second major would be on the transcript only. A second major allows a student to have two different majors while overlapping coursework generally requiring less coursework than a dual/double major. 
  • Double Degrees do call for a second diploma:  The other major must be under a completely different degree type and unlike second majors, dual/double degrees will require additional coursework —most times doubling the coursework of an individual who only obtains a second major since the coursework is typically in common for the second major. Majors are not listed on the diploma. 

 

Graduate and Undergraduate Certificates

  • Graduate and undergraduate certificates are mailed at the same time as diplomas.
  • Graduates receiving only the graduate certificate, or the undergraduate certificate do not take part in the ceremony.
  • The Commencement ceremony is for those obtaining degrees only.

 

Where is my diploma?  

  • If you do not have your diploma by the 4-month date after Commencement, you have until 1 year to let us know.
  • Individuals who do not contact us by our deadline will be charged the duplicate diploma fee of $20.00 for a copy of their diploma.
  • It is the graduate's responsibility to contact timely. 

 

More on Diplomas

  • Diplomas are mailed 4 months after each Commencement. They are not available for pick-up. 
  • The address on your Graduation Application is what we use. 
  • If you have an update to your address, email us one month after Commencement Day. Do not simply update your address with the University. Again, the address we use is the address that is listed on our graduation application. 
  • If you do not update your address by our deadline above, you will be charged for any reprints, if necessary.
  • We do not have digital copies. Please contact Registrar. 
  • If you have a financial obligation with the University, your diploma will not be processed or mailed until after we are notified that the fees are paid in full. To pay off any financial obligations visit student business services. 
  • Unofficial Transcripts can be found on your MyMemphis account and include your degree/conferral of degree information.
  • The official document of your degree is the Transcript and Degree Verification. The Registrar oversees Transcripts and Degree Verification for schools and jobs. You can reach them at 901-678-2810 or online at https://www.memphis.edu/registrar/. 
  • For academic related questions and overall certification of your degree, contact your Advisor or Graduation Analyst https://www.memphis.edu/commencement/graduates/graduation-analyst.php. 
  • Diplomas are mailed standard USPS. No tracking is available.

No diploma will be released to any student that has a financial hold or has not completed requirements for certification.

Individual Diploma Orders and Duplicate Reorders 

  • Clearing a Financial Hold
    • If you have recently cleared a hold, contact us via email ONLY at commencement@memphis.edu with your Unumber, Major and Full Mailing Address. The information will be checked. If the hold is cleared and no further issues, the diploma will be processed and mailed 4-6 weeks from day of inquiry.
  • Individual Diplomas
    • Diplomas reordered for any reason will be available 4-6 weeks from the day of inquiry, excludes holiday schedules, vacations or scheduled maintenance.
  • Duplicate Reorders
    • Once we receive your diploma or duplicate diploma reorder request, it will take approximately 4-6 weeks. The diploma will then be mailed to the address provided. 

 

Honors, Participation and More on Step 4

  • All students in the program are walking based on their prior semester GPA. Any changes in honors will be reflected on the Undergraduate Diploma at the time of certification. Graduate School Diplomas do NOT denote any honors.

  • Students are allowed to participate ONCE for the degree they are seeking. 

  • Second majors and second concentrations do not participate in the Commencement ceremony, are not listed in the program and do not receive a second diploma. For example, in May 2011, student received a Bachelor of Professional Studies with a concentration Health Services degree and returned in May 2012 and added a concentration within Professional Studies. Another example, in May 2012, student received a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in English and returned in December 2012 and gets a second major in History. These are the same degree, so no second diploma, program name or participation.

 

  • Graduate Certificate ONLY students do not participate in the Commencement ceremony. Names are listed in the spring Commencement program only.

  • Step 4 - Completion of the Step 4 is required for both students participating in the Commencement ceremony (attending) and for students not planning to participate (not attending). This includes all levels of students: doctoral, masters, specialists, undergraduates and law (law only in December and summer). Attendance is collected by semester so only the current semester graduating student fills out the form. Ceremony attendance information will be collected by the Commencement Office during the middle of your graduating semester. See below for when you need to fill out your card.

Step 4: Sent to your Memphis Email in your Final Semester

This step is required. Step 4 will be sent to approved students in their final semester. It is required by all students regardless of attendance. Failure to complete Step 4 will result in your graduation application being cancelled. Please mark calendars and be on the lookout for Step 4 in your final semester. 

  • August graduates will be asked to submit Step 4 in June/July.

  • December graduates will be asked to submit Step 4 in October.

  • May graduates will be asked to submit Step 4 in February.

One Degree/Two Degrees/Second Majors/Additional Majors Information

  • Typically, students earn ONE degree per semester. Some students may earn more than one, but it is rare. Please review the links below to better understand the degree you are receiving. Upon graduation, the diploma includes the degree (e.g., Bachelor of Arts) that students earned, but not the major or majors.  The official transcript will show the majors/minors/concentrations a student has earned, as well as the degree.  Students with two or more majors receive two diplomas only if their majors fall under two different degrees.  For example, English and History are included under the BA degree, so a student in those majors would receive just one diploma.  A student with a major in Mathematical Science and a major in English would receive 2 degrees/diplomas – BS and BA.   

 

Spring Graduation/Back-up Date Information

  • NOTICE: Students graduating in the spring/May semester each year are subject to a Commencement date change. Please read below for details.
  • Spring graduation may conflict with the Grizzlies playoff schedule, so there could be a possible date change. Please share the possible back-up-date information with all guests, including immediate and extended family and friends.
  • If you are applying to graduate/graduating in spring (May), please plan and have your guests plan accordingly for a Saturday or Sunday event possibility. We recommend booking any return flights late on Sunday (depending on the graduating student's college or school) or Monday morning following Commencement. We appreciate your assistance in helping us spread the word. Confirmation of actual Spring dates and times will be sent out via the graduating students Memphis email account, the Commencement Office website, @Commencement (Twitter), and @uomemphisgrad (Instagram). If you are graduating in the spring semester and would like more information regarding the backup date, click Details on Spring & Grizzlies.

 

GPA Requirements and University Honors

  • University honor cords are single ropes worn over the robe. The cords come in three colors — gold, crimson or white. Read important information available at this link. Policy is below. (Earn the following minimum grade point average on both their UofM and Overall GPA to achieve the listed designations. It takes the lower of the two): 
  • https://catalog.memphis.edu/content.php?catoid=22&navoid=1128#graduation-with-distinction 

    • Summa Cum Laude, with Highest Distinction, 3.80 - 4.00: gold cord

    • Magna Cum Laude, with High Distinction, 3.50 - 3.79: crimson cord

    • Cum Laude, with Distinction, 3.25 - 3.49: white cord

  • Undergraduate students who have achieved academic honors distinction (summa, magna or cum as determined by the University policy on GPA) will receive their honor cord at cap and gown distribution.

  • The College and School provide the names listed in the program with the distinctions: summa cum laude, magna cum laude and cum laude and are based on grade point averages at the beginning of the term.

  • This semester's grades  will not be included in honors calculations until certification for the diploma, 4 months after commencement.

  • You may confirm your honor designation by checking the proof of the Commencement Program. If you think there is an error, you must talk with the Commencement Office early/by the Step 4 deadline. After you notify the Commencement Office of the error, they will contact your college/school to determine edits are needed.

  • Graduate Students do not have academic honors but may wear cords awarded previously.

  • 4.0s are determined by looking at an undergraduate student's overall undergraduate studies (entire transcript/entire undergraduate career: Every undergraduate course taken must be an A or better) to determine a 4.0 GPA.

  • Student Marshal(s): Each undergraduate College and School will identify the undergraduate student(s) with the highest GPA in their overall undergraduate studies to serve as Student Marshal. Student Marshals are recognized by their Marshal's medallion and will lead the college across the stage. Student Marshals are selected by the Commencement Office. We must review student records to ensure accuracy. 

  • If a student is graduating with University Honors or University Honors with Thesis, they must communicate with the Honors Program several months before Commencement to ensure the Commencement Office and the college/school knows to add this to the program and diploma information.

  • For more information on the Institution's Recognition of Academic Performance, see Recognition of Academic Performance. https://catalog.memphis.edu/content.php?catoid=22&navoid=1128#graduation-with-distinction  

  • If you have questions, please contact your Graduation Analyst-  https://www.memphis.edu/commencement/graduates/graduation-analyst.php. Please include your Unumber and Name when communicating with your Analyst. 

 

Commencement Conduct Guidelines

Commencement Attendance Guidelines for Graduates and Guests 

Commencement is a time to celebrate and enjoy your accomplishments. However, it is a ceremony. We do not allow anyone to participate with the graduate. Only the graduate is allowed on the event level and on stage (no parents, guests, children, etc.). We do not allow proposals or the like at the ceremony. You are required to honor the spirit of this important occasion by conducting yourself in a manner that is respectful of yourself, fellow graduates and our guests. It is your responsibility to speak to your guests to comply to the following guidelines. By participating and attending The University of Memphis Commencement ceremony you agree to observe the following guidelines and rules: 

  • No guests are permitted on the Event Floor for any reason and at any time. Individuals in violation will be escorted out by Law Enforcement. 

 

  • No skipping or swapping of seats. Individuals in violation will be escorted out by Law Enforcement. 

 

  • After leaving the stage, the graduate returns to their seat as guided by Crew Officials. Individuals in violation will be escorted out by Law Enforcement. 

 

  • Notice: We are not responsible for lost, stolen, items left behind, theft, damage to vehicles, or personal injury of any kind.  No property should be tampered, destroyed, or mishandled in any way by any graduate or guests attending. Attendance in the Commencement ceremony and events are completely optional, and decisions made to attend by the graduating student and any guests who choose to come on their own accord. No unauthorized items, weapons, etc. are permitted at any time!

 

  • We do not allow anyone to participate with the graduate. Only the graduate is allowed on the event level and on stage (no parents, guests, children, etc.). We do not allow proposals or the like at the ceremony.

 

  • These events are free and public large-scale events; therefore, while we work hard to ensure these events are great for everyone there are matters beyond our control. There will be traffic and parking lines. There will be many guests. There may be delays. We recommend working out plans with yourself and guests prior to attending. Remember: An idea you have may be shared by someone else. Someone will be first and someone will be last, and someone will be waiting. This should be expected. Prepare for possible and longer waiting time. Patience and understanding are a must! 

 

By participating and attending The University of Memphis Commencement ceremony, you agree to observe the following guidelines: 

You are required to read, understand, and share with guests attending. It is your responsibility to ensure you and your guests comply. Anyone in violation will be escorted out by Law Enforcement, and the participating student/graduate’s diploma and transcript (grades/diploma) will be withheld with possible further disciplinary actions. You are responsible for the actions of yourself and those of your guests.  Graduates and Guests will go through Security Measures at the venue. No unauthorized items, weapons, etc. are permitted at any time. Guests are seated and lined up separately from graduates. Your attendance in the ceremony and that of your guests is the agreement to these terms and conditions.

  • No interacting with guests from your seats.
  • No skipping or swapping seats.
  • When you come off stage, return to your original seat for instruction.
  • We do not allow anyone to participate with the graduate. Only the graduate is allowed on the event level and on stage (no parents, guests, children, etc.). We do not allow proposals or the like at the ceremony.
  • No saving or reserving seats by guests or graduates. 
  • No guests are allowed in the area indicated for graduates only. 
  • No guests are permitted on the graduate floor/section at any given time. 
  • Do NOT get out of order. Stay in numerical order as indicated on your Pronouncer Card. In the past, we have had participants get out of order and it completely caused several repercussions including names displayed incorrectly, video and photo confusion, delays, and more. 
  • Ushers and Staff will be present to assist guests and graduates upon arrival. 
  • If you get out of order for any reason, you will be escorted out of the facility, your participation in Commencement will be canceled, your diploma and transcript (grades/diploma) will be withheld, and possible further disciplinary actions. 
  • You must return to your seat after going across the stage. Return to your original assigned seat. Do NOT change seats for any reason. If you do, you will be escorted out of the venue and not allowed to re-enter. 
  • If you or your guests cause any disruption of any kind, leave early, change seats, or get out of order you will be escorted off the premises by Memphis Police and Security. You will not be allowed to re-enter the building. 
  • No waving or tossing up any items on the floor, lineup, or stage. If you are found in violation, you will be escorted out by Law Enforcement. 
  • No banners, flags, or any other items should be brought with you or hidden! If you are found in violation, you will be escorted out by Law Enforcement. 
  • No jumping, leaping, dancing, or the like are permitted. If you are found in violation, you will be escorted out by Law Enforcement. 
  • These events are free and public large-scale events; therefore, while we work hard to ensure these events are great for everyone there are matters beyond our control. There will be traffic and parking lines. There will be many guests. There may be delays. We recommend working out plans with yourself and guests prior to attending. Remember: An idea you have may be shared by someone else. Someone will be first and someone will be last, and someone will be waiting. This should be expected. Prepare for possible and longer waiting time. Patience and understanding are a must! 
  • If you have guests who are unable to stand in long lines, etc., we do record and live stream our ceremonies. Live Stream Option. 
  • Speak to guests about appropriate cheering. Over cheering and screaming is not permitted. 
  • Noise makers including Air Horns, Bull Horns, Using Cell Phones to create these noises, and Cow Bells, are strictly prohibited and NOT permitted. They will be confiscated and not returned. Graduates and Guests who refuse to comply will be removed. 
  • Excessive Yelling, Prolonged Screaming is unnecessary, unfair, and disruptive to your peers. Guests in violation will be escorted out.  
  • You want your name to be heard by your family and friends, and so do your peers. 
  • Speak to guests about cheering too loudly. Ask guests to be respectful of other graduates’ names after your name is called. 
  • ALL families/friends want to hear their graduate’s name called. Clapping and respectful cheering is allowed. 
  • Speak to guests to refrain from yelling, screaming, and lengthy cheering. Excessive yelling and screaming are disrespectful to your fellow graduates. 
  • Hearing a graduate’s name is the moment everyone is waiting for. Think about how special this moment is for you. Your peer feels the same. 
  • Be respectful of other graduates and the audience by staying in your seat before and after you receive your diploma and until those on the Commencement platform exit during the recessional. 
  • Inappropriate behavior for this occasion includes taking selfies while on the Commencement platform, pranks, stepping or dancing, and/or vocal or visual disruptions. 
  • Use of any noise maker, including whistles and air horns, is strictly prohibited. 
  • Cell phones are permitted, but out of courtesy for other participants, students should silence their phone, not use them during the formal speaking portions of the ceremony and should not use them while receiving their diploma on stage. 
  • The use and/or possession of outside beverage, food, alcohol, or drugs is strictly prohibited. 
  • All provisions of the University of Memphis Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities apply to Commencement ceremonies.  
  • The University expects to conduct a meaningful, dignified ceremony. Disorderly and/or disruptive conduct, including, but not limited to the examples provided above, may be grounds for immediate ejection, and may result in your diploma and/or transcript being retained by the University. 
  • Attendees must stay for the duration. 
  • We cannot and do not hold personal items. Bring only the items you need.  
  • Students are only allowed to participate once for the degree they are seeking. 
  • In the wake of COVID-19, any guidelines set by the facility or Health Officials must be followed by all graduating participants and that of their guests. 
  • If you have any questions about filling in this online form, please contact the Commencement Office by emailing us at commencement@memphis.edu  
  • Some Commencements may be limited guests seating. Compliance is necessary.  
  • For most recent information about ceremonies, visit www.memphis.edu/commencement. 
  • Notice: We are not responsible for lost, stolen, items left behind, theft, damage to vehicles, or personal injury of any kind.  No property should be tampered, destroyed, or mishandled in any way by any graduate or guests attending. Attendance in the Commencement ceremony and events are completely optional, and decisions made to attend by the graduating student and any guests who choose to come on their own accord. No unauthorized items, weapons, etc. are permitted at any time.

Sharing Information with Family and Friends

  • While Commencement is a family event and we look forward to you participating with family and friends, we do not share participation details with family/friends for any of our participants. It is your responsibility to share your participation with the individuals you want to know. We do not and cannot provide academic details with family and friends either. Please be sure family and friends are aware of this. We can provide general ceremonial details only.  

 

Commencement Program

  • The Commencement Program is a public document. Therefore, it will list the names of all approved degree seeking students (some names may be listed who are not approved based on the date of notification). If a student wants name removed, the student must make a request in writing to commencement@memphis.edu by our Step 4 deadline. The name will automatically list and will only be removed by written request of the deadline. 

 

Caps and Gowns

  • We are NOT able to loan out caps and gowns for photos. Please check with your photographer who should have caps available for props, etc. Our caps and gowns are ONLY available to participants and these participants can only pick them up during Cap and Gown Distribution (1-2) days prior to commencement. In addition, gowns and hoods are rentals only and not available for non-participants. Gowns and hoods are used for the ceremony (participants only). 

 

Checking Graduation Status after filing 

Only approved students will be sent Step 4. It is a good idea to review your status, check your Memphis emails, UMDegree record and notes section to ensure you are on track to graduation at the end of the term. If you see a status that you are not clear on, disqualified, ineligible or the like, you should immediately check with your advisor and Graduation Analysts. It is highly recommended you check your graduation status throughout your final year but definitely at the start of your final semester.  How to check your Graduation Status: 

  • Go to your myMemphis portal.
  • Click on Student Pages
  • Click on My Degree.
  • Find Graduation Status

 

Email After Graduation

  • Your Memphis email will expire after 1 year/graduates will lose access to email in 1 year after graduation.  For more information visit https://www.memphis.edu/umtech/solutions/email.php. 
  • While we want to be as helpful as possible, The Commencement Office informs only. We do not update or change graduation statues. Advisors and Graduation Analysts/College or Schools, where your major falls, handle all academic information. Please consult with these individuals and send your questions and concerns to them. Of course, we are always happy to help you reach out to these people, if needed, so please let us know.

What if I missed the deadline to Apply to Graduate? 

Apply to Graduate deadlines are strictly followed. If you missed the deadline for any reason, it is the decision of your academic college or school to determine if you can file late. Contact your Graduation Analyst. 

EARLY Participation is not allowed at the University of Memphis. All students must be approved for the current term in order to participate in the commencement ceremony. You cannot participate early for any reason. If you are not in your final required coursework for graduation, you are not eligible for graduation and thus not available to participate in Commencement. If you have questions about this, contact the Commencement Office. Academic Advisors cannot determine your right to participate early in the Commencement ceremonies. 

By reading this information, you understand and agree to all of its terms and conditions and that your participation in the commencement ceremony does not mean that students have graduated; degree conferral depends upon successful completion of all of the degree requirements described in the Catalog of your Academic Program/College or School. All students are highly recommended to check with your department on all academic requirements. Diplomas are mailed 3 1/2 months after each graduating semester. They are not available earlier. There is a process of certification that must take place after each commencement, including checking grades and academic records. 

It is the applicant's responsibility to read comply with the information outlined here. Failure to read, comply and understand will impact your graduation and participation in the commencement ceremony.