Graduate Checklist

You’re in the final stretch

You are close to the finish line, but there are just a few more steps to go.

From making sure you’re eligible to graduate to requesting accommodations for your guests, find everything you need to prepare for Commencement in our checklist below.

Be sure to complete these tasks early so you don’t miss any deadlines.

Graduate checklist

Check your eligibility

The first step in preparing for Commencement is to to verify your eligibility for graduation with your school recorder.

Apply to graduate

Apply to graduate by [Month X] to ensure your name is printed in the program and you receive your diploma. If you applied on a previous date but did not graduate, you must reapply.

Check for record holds

Resolve any holds on your record such as an unpaid bursar bill that may impact the release of your diploma or transcripts.

Name and mailing address

Verify that the spelling and formatting of your name is correct. You can also update your gender, birthdate, and mailing address.

Order your cap and gown

Rent your official IU cap and gown from our partner, Herff Jones. Request apparel before [Month X] to avoid late fees.

Attend GradFair

Check off several Commencement tasks at once by attending GradFair on [Month X] from [X time]-[X time] at [location].

Accessibility Information

Our trained Commencement organizers provide services to graduates and guests who need accommodations. Please let us know two to three weeks before the ceremony if you need accommodations by contacting [name] at [email address and phone number].

Apply to be the voice of your graduating class

One student speaker will address all attendees at the [IU campus] commencement ceremony. Student speakers must be a member of the graduating class, should have a successful academic record with a minimum [x] GPA and a history of participating in campus and community activities. A selection committee will review applications, interview candidates (if needed) and determine the final selection to recommend to the Chancellor.

The selected speaker will give a 3-5 minute speech (approximately 500 words). Once the student speaker is chosen, [IU campus] will provide assistance with speech development and editing.