Q:  When do I need to apply for graduation?

A:  You should apply for graduation at the beginning of the semester in which all requirements are to be completed.

Q:  How do I apply for a degree?

A:  Students will be notified by email of the graduation process.

Q:  How do I indicate on the application for graduation that I am pursuing two degrees?  What is the difference between double major and dual degrees?

A:  Undergraduate students who will satisfy graduation requirements for two degrees concurrently may apply for the double major.  Students may earn dual degrees by fulfilling all the requirements of the degree programs in both majors.  The student must complete an additional 25 percent of hours above the minimum hour requirement of the major requiring the most credits.  Two diplomas are awarded and both degrees will appear on the student’s record.

A separate application for graduation must be filed for each degree the student plans to complete.  Students should indicate double majors and dual degrees by writing the words “double major” and “dual degree” at the top of each form. 

Q:  After I have applied for the degree, how can I make changes to my application?

A:  Students who wish to make changes on your application must notify the Graduation office.  It is imperative that both the Graduation office and the department be notified of any changes to majors, minors, and concentrations.  Proper forms must be completed for approval.  
 

DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

Q:  How long after the ending date of the term do I have to complete degree requirements and still graduate that term?

A:  All degree requirements must be completed prior to the graduation date.

 Q:  If I have a question about meeting departmental requirements, with whom should I talk?

A:  Students with questions about meeting departmental requirements should consult your academic advisor or another departmental representative. 

Q:  What if I realize I am not going to complete my degree requirements by the end of the term for which I applied?  What should I do?

A:  Contact the Graduation office to remove the application, and then consult your advisor in the department for further instructions.  Once a student has to complete additional coursework, the student must reapply for graduation in the semester that work is completed.
 

COMMENCEMENT
 

 
Q:  Can I “walk” during the spring commencement even though I have applied to graduate during the summer?

A: Yes, the student’s dean may grant permission to participate in Commencement exercises; provided only when six or fewer credit hours are needed for completion of degree. 

Q:  Can I graduate in the spring and still take a class in the summer?

A:  Yes, however you must re-enroll as a special degree holder or be admitted to another degree program. Courses taken after the awarding of your degree cannot be applied to that degree program.   

Q:  Is there a commencement ceremony for students who graduate in August?

A:  No, there is no commencement ceremony held in August.  August graduates are included in the December ceremony. 

Q:  Will I receive my diploma at the commencement ceremony?

A:  Diplomas are presented to students at the ceremonies during May commencement.  August and December diplomas are available for pickup during allotted times or mailed approximately 4 to 6 weeks after the graduation date.
 

DIPLOMAS    

Q:  Do students receive an additional diploma for a double major?

A:  No. The double major will be noted on the student’s transcript. 

Q:  If I graduate during the fall, how long will it be before I receive my diploma?

A:  Diplomas are generally available for pickup around January 15^th.  Diplomas are mailed starting February 1^st to the address provided with the application or to the permanent address on the student’s record. 

Q:  What is the size of the diploma?

A:  The diploma is 11” X 14” and displayed horizontally. 

Q:  May I walk in and pickup my diploma?

A:  Yes, but you must notify the Graduation Office before the diplomas are mailed out.
 

LATIN HONORS

Q:  How do I graduate with honors?

A:  Baccalaureate degrees with honors are conferred in accordance with the following cumulative grade point averages: 

Cum Laude 3.30-3.59
Magna Cum Laude 3.60-3.89
Summa Cum Laude 3.90-4.00

These designations apply only to candidates who have completed 45 or more credit hours of course work at VCU. Calculation of the GPA for honors determination is based on grades received for all courses taken for credit at VCU, as well as for credits accepted for transfer at VCU.