Graduation Application
Graduation for the 2020-2021 Academic Year will occur on May 15, 2021. Students desiring to graduate in May 2021 must submit a Graduation Application and Fee by December 11, 2020, to the Student Accounts Office. Students must submit completed forms to the Registrar Assistant after making payment. Graduation Applications submitted after the due date will be assessed an $85 Late Fee. No Graduation Applications will be accepted after January 31, 2021.
Graduation applications are available in the Registrar’s Office or can be downloaded on the Student Forms page.
Federal Student Loans Exit Counseling
If you have ever received a federal student loan, you are required to complete Exit Counseling on the NSLDS website. After completing the exit counseling, please schedule an appointment with the Director of Financial Aid.
Final Grades
Instructors are required to submit final grades for graduating students by April 30, 2021. Please touch base with your instructors at the beginning of the semester concerning due dates for your coursework.
Graduation Fair
A Graduation Fair will take place in the Spring semester at which time you will have an opportunity to order announcements, custom diploma frames, and class rings. You will receive information about the date, times, and location as we get closer.
Important Due Dates During Spring Semester
| Item to Complete | Due Date | Contact |
| Mission Practicum Account Paid | April 30 | Martha Batts |
| Federal Student Loans Exit Counseling | April 30 | Jimmy Criswell |
| Housing Account Paid in Full | April 30 | Ryan Dunleavy |
| Library Account Paid in Full | April 30 | Valeri Knighten |
| Return Criswell & TexShare Library Books | April 30 | Valeri Knighten |
| Student Account Paid in Full | April 30 | Donna Ward |
Graduation FAQs
When will the ceremony be held?
Saturday, May 15, 2021
Where is the ceremony held?
The ceremony will take place in Ruth Chapel.
What time do graduates need to be at the college?
Arrive no later than 1:00 p.m.
Where do graduates need to go?
Go to Horner Hall.
What time does graduation begin?
The ceremony will begin at 2:00 p.m.
How long is the ceremony?
Each commencement varies, but you should plan for an hour and a half ceremony.
Where do we park?
Students will be notified of approved parking locations at Dress Rehearsal. Please do not park in the Bank of America parking lot; cars will be towed.
What are the seating arrangements?
Auditorium seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis and begins at 1:00 p.m. Graduates are not limited in the number of guests they can invite.
Is handicapped seating available?
Yes. Ushers will be able to guide guests to those seats.
Are there any dress requirements for dress rehearsal and commencement?
Yes. Dress shirt, tie, slacks, and dress shoes for men. Dress or a blouse with slacks/skirt and dress shoes for women. No flip-flops or tennis shoes.
Will there be a photographer to take pictures?
Yes. A photographer from Heirloom Portraits will be at rehearsal to take class photos and individual photos. He will also be at commencement to take photos, including one of you receiving your diploma from the President.
How do I order pictures?
Approximately one week after commencement, you will receive an email with the link to the photographer’s website where you can view and order photos.
When is dress rehearsal?
Friday, May 14, 2021
What time is dress rehearsal?
Graduates need to be in Horner Hall at 9:45 a.m. for check-in. Rehearsal will be from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m.
Do I have to attend dress rehearsal?
Yes. All graduates participating in commencement must be at rehearsal.
What happens at dress rehearsal?
You will receive information about the ceremony and walk through the program. You will receive your regalia and the class photo will be taken. You will also have the opportunity to have individual photos taken.
Where can I pick up my regalia?
You will receive your regalia at dress rehearsal.
Do I need to bring anything to dress rehearsal?
No. You do not need to bring anything, but you must be in compliance with the dress code.
