Graduation & Commencement Frequently Asked Questions

Find quick answers to the most common questions about applying for graduation, commencement, and what happens next. Use the Jump to a section links below or expand each question to see the details.

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Applying for Graduation

When should I apply for graduation?

Apply one semester before you plan to graduate.

  • Fall graduation: End of the semester PRIOR to your final semester
  • Spring or Summer graduation: Apply by December 1

Applying on time helps ensure your degree audit, diploma, and commencement details are processed correctly.

View more graduation application details

How do I know what college I am in?

Please check the list of Majors by College.

How do I apply for graduation?

Once the advisor marks you as eligible to graduate, you will receive an email with information and the link to the graduation application. You will need to login to the application with your StarID and password.

View more applying for graduation details

Is there a graduation application fee?

There is no graduation application fee, but there is a fee for participating in the commencement ceremony.

Is there a news release to newspapers with individual names?

University Marketing & Communications will send a news release announcing graduates to local newspapers.

  • If you would like to prevent your name from appearing in news releases please contact Shawn Soderberg in the Registrar's Office.

What if I need to change my graduation date to a later semester?

Please contact Shawn Soderberg in the Registrar's Office to change your graduation to a future term.

Commencement Ceremony

Guest-related questions are answered in the Guest Information section below.

How do I get information about the commencement ceremony and events?

Information for graduates who signed up to attend the ceremony will be emailed three to four weeks prior to commencement.

Do I have to attend the commencement ceremony?

No. Participation in the commencement ceremony is optional.

  • You will still receive your diploma even if you do not attend.
  • You must still apply for graduation to earn your degree.

Is there a fee to participate in the ceremony?

Yes. A commencement ceremony participation fee is required when you sign up.

  • The $40 fee is non‑refundable, even if you do not complete your degree or participate in the ceremony.
  • This fee is used to pay expenses related to commencement such as programs, staging, emergency services, interpreter services, etc.

When and where is commencement held?

Commencement ceremonies are held at the end of the Fall and Spring semesters.

  • Dates, times, and locations are posted on the Commencement webpage each term.
  • Summer graduates are invited to participate in the Spring ceremony.

How do I request accommodations for the ceremony?

MSUM is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible commencement experience. If you need a reasonable accommodation to attend this event, please complete the Event Accommodations Form.

  • Wheelchair-accessible seating is available.
  • Live captioning will be available.
  • Sign language interpreters or other accommodations can be requested.

When is rehearsal?

There is no formal rehearsal.

  • Arrive dressed in your cap and gown.
  • Pick up your commencement card at the check-in table in Nemzek Hall and to receive further instructions.

Do I have to inform anyone that I plan to participate in the commencement ceremony?

Graduates are responsible for informing their family and friends.

  • Formal announcements can be purchased through Herff Jones.

Can I prevent my name from appearing in the commencement program?

Please contact Shawn Soderberg in the Registrar's Office.

Do I receive my diploma at the commencement ceremony?

No. You will not receive an actual diploma at the commencement ceremony.

  • You will receive a holder during commencement to place your diploma in after you receive it by mail.

Is there a professional photographer at the ceremony?

Yes. A professional photographer will take your picture as you shake hands with the President.

  • Proofs will be mailed to your permanent address about two weeks after the ceremony.
  • You will be able to order online at www.gradimages.com or call 1.800.261.2576.

Guest Information

Share this section with family and friends who plan to attend commencement.

Do guests need tickets to attend commencement?

No, tickets are not required for the spring 2026 commencement ceremonies.

Where should guests park?

Guest parking information is provided prior to the commencement.

  • Designated parking areas may vary by ceremony.
  • Designated parking areas are free to park.
  • Accessible parking is available near the venue.

View parking details

Are accommodations available for guests with disabilities?

Yes. MSUM is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible commencement experience.

  • Wheelchair-accessible seating is available.
  • Sign language interpreters or other accommodations can be requested.

Note: Guests needing accommodations should plan ahead and complete the Event Accommodations Form.

How long is the ceremony?

Most ceremonies last about 90-120 minutes, depending on the number of graduates.

  • All graduates and guests are expected to remain seated for the entire program.
  • There will be a reception immediately following after each ceremony.

Is the ceremony livestreamed?

Yes. Commencement ceremonies are usually livestreamed for guests who cannot attend in person.

Watch the commencement livestream

Are children allowed at commencement?

Yes. Children are welcome to attend commencement ceremonies.

How do I find local lodging for my guests?

Check out local lodging and restaurant listings at the F-M Area Convention & Visitors Bureau website.

Cap, Gown & Regalia

How do I order my cap and gown?

Caps and gowns are ordered online through Herff Jones.

  • Order online through Herff Jones by April 12.
  • Ordering by the deadline helps avoid late fees or shipping delays.
  • Questions? Call us at 218.477.2100 or email at msum@bkstr.com.

What if I miss the cap and gown ordering deadline?

Late orders may be limited and subject to additional fees.

  • Expedited shipping applies to online orders placed after April 12.
  • No online orders are allowed after April 24, 2026.
  • If you miss the deadline, contact the MSUM Bookstore as soon as possible to ask about availability.

How do I receive undergraduate honor cords or special regalia?

Honor cords and dated souvenir tassels are available for purchase in the MSUM Bookstore.

  • Academic honors are determined by your final GPA and minimum credits earned at MSUM.
    • Cum Laude graduates will wear white honor cords.
    • Magna Cum Laude graduates will wear red honor cords.
    • Summa Cum Laude graduates will wear red & white honor cords.

Honors, Diplomas & Transcripts

Do I receive honor cords or special regalia?

Yes, if you qualify.

  • Academic honors are determined by your final GPA.
  • If you mees the requirements, honors will be indicated in the commencement program and read along with the your name during the ceremony.
  • Honors graduates can purchase honor cords at the MSUM Bookstore.

When will I receive my diploma?

Diplomas are mailed approximately 8 weeks after graduation.

  • Your diploma will be mailed to you after grades are finalized and your degree is conferred by the Registrar's Office.
  • Your diploma will be sent to the address on file.
  • Outstanding financial obligations may delay delivery.

How is my name listed on the diploma?

Your diploma name is based on your official student record.

  • Review and update your name in eServices before the end of your final semester.

How do I order official transcripts?

Official transcripts can be ordered online through the National Student Clearinghouse.

  • Processing times, cost and delivery vary.

View obtaining transcript details

After Graduation

When is my degree officially posted?

Your degree is posted after:

  • Final grades are submitted.
  • Your degree audit is completed and approved.

This typically occurs several weeks after the semester ends.

Can I still access my MSUM email after graduation?

Yes. Graduates retain access to their MSUM email for a limited time after graduation.

  • Be sure to provide a personal email address.
  • Monitor your email for diploma and alumni information.

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