Graduation and Convocation

If you are enrolled in the final courses of your program, then it’s time to start planning for graduation and your convocation ceremony.

Graduation and convocation are not the same thing. Graduation is the official recognition that you have completed all the requirements of your program and are entitled to claim the credential you have earned. Convocation is the ceremony at which your degree is conferred by the Chancellor. In order to graduate, you must submit an application to graduate on RAMSS. Only approved graduates will receive an invitation to the convocation ceremonies. Even if you do not intend to participate in the ceremonies, you must still apply to graduate; you will graduate 'in absentia'.

You must apply to graduate by the deadline date for either spring (June) convocation (winter graduation term) or fall (October) convocation (spring/summer graduation term). You should apply early, in anticipation of successful completion of your program requirements. For example, if you expect to graduate at the end of winter term (spring convocation ceremony), you would apply to graduate when you begin your Winter term classes. Application deadlines are strictly enforced and can be found in the Significant Dates section of the undergraduate calendar.

Once you have applied, check your graduation status page in RAMSS. If your name as displayed there is not correct, submit a Personal Data Change Request immediately.

Your graduation status will change as the review process unfolds. Timing may vary, as many steps must occur after your grades are posted and your eligibility to graduate is determined. 

You must successfully complete all program requirements as prescribed by Senate to graduate with a degree or certificate. When all checks have been completed and you have met all graduation criteria, you will be recommended for approval to graduate. If the Awards and Ceremonials Committee approves you, you will receive an email notifying you that you are eligible to graduate, and be provided with information about registering for participation in convocation ceremonies. This notification is usually sent in late May for June convocation, and in late September for October convocation.

There is no penalty and no negative impact if you apply to graduate and are not approved to graduate. This gives you the chance to successfully complete your program requirements and to apply again to graduate if necessary. 

If you decide you wish to continue your studies even though you meet basic graduation requirements (e.g.: you want to improve grades or take extra courses for a minor), you must cancel your application to graduate.

Consult the Significant Dates, opens in new window