Checklist & Deadlines

In addition to completing academic requirements, several steps are necessary before you can walk across the stage at commencement. Pay close attention to deadlines and make notes in your planner or calendar.

What, Where and How	Deadline
Check your academic requirements with your advisor. Ensure you’ve met the general education requirements, as well as those for your major.
Complete your degree application.	Feb. 1
Considering graduate school? Ensure you meet all application deadlines. Write your personal statement early, allowing time for others to review and offer suggestions. Request letters of recommendation several weeks before the deadline.	Varies by school, usually early- to mid-fall
Complete Commencement Attendance Declaration Survey and regalia information. This will be emailed to you in early February if you have applied for graduation.	mid-Feb.
Pick up your printed graduation announcements (if desired). Available through the Registrar’s Office (Administration Building, Room 14).	on sale end of Feb. – April
Pick up your cap & gown. From the GC Bookstore by Friday before Commencement.	Week of Commencement
Complete financial aid exit interviews. If you received federal or Perkins loans, an exit interview is required. Complete the interview online or talk with financial aid staff in person during an exit interview meeting.	Before end of your last semester
Contact the GC Accounting Office to pay any outstanding bills. Your student account must be paid in full before you can receive your diploma.	prior to commencement
Complete survey to update your contact information with the registrar. Provide your permanent address for after graduation to ensure your diploma is mailed to the correct address.	Early April
Forward your postal mail & return your mailbox key. Stop by Printing & Mailing in person to complete the appropriate paperwork.	End of May term
Forward your GC email & download your files from the M: drive. For detailed instructions, visit the ITS web page.	Within 6 months of last class
Register for the online Alumni Network. Search for GC alumni to network with and keep in contact with your graduating friends. Visit the Alumni Relations web page.	Anytime