Graduation and Commencement Ceremonies

• Diploma
• Degree Recipients
• Double Majors and Simultaneous Degree

Graduation

Graduation happens when you fulfill all your degree or certificate requirements.

All students must apply for graduation. The application must be submitted, and the graduation fee paid, by the application deadline to be considered a candidate for degree.

Undergraduate: $35
Graduate: $40

• View Application Deadlines
• Submit Your Graduation Application Online

The application is available for the current semester and the next two semesters.

Double Majors and Simultaneous Degrees

More information can be found on the Double Majors and Simultaneous Degrees page. 

Commencement Ceremonies

Commencement is a ceremony that celebrates your graduation.

Undergraduate students completing degree requirements during the fall semester may participate in the winter (December) commencement ceremony. Registration for Commencement is required. 

Undergraduate students completing degree requirements during the spring or summer semesters may participate in the spring (May) commencement ceremony. Registration for Commencement is required. Illinois State does not hold commencement ceremonies in summer.

Honor Cords

For an undergraduate student to graduate with an honor distinction (laude honors), the student must have earned a minimum of 30 semester hours at Illinois State University as well as a current cumulative GPA of 3.65 or higher.

To be recognized at Commencement with honors, the student must have 30 semester hours, including earned and in progress, as well as a 3.65 current cumulative GPA.

Only ISU course work is included in the calculation of the cumulative GPA. 

Cumulative GPA	Honor Distinction/Honor Cord Color
3.90 – 4.00	Summa Cum Laude/Gold Cord
3.80 – 3.89	Magna Cum Laude/Lilac Cord
3.65 – 3.79	Cum Laude/White Cord

Eligible students will receive an email from the Office of the University Registrar regarding honor cord pick-up approximately four weeks prior to commencement ceremonies.

Graduate Students

Visit the Graduate School website to get graduation, commencement ceremony, and specific application requirements.

Not Currently Enrolled

Complete the paper graduation application. Submit your application and fee in person at Student Accounts or by mail to:

Illinois State University
Student Accounts
Campus Box 1210
Normal, IL 61790-1210