The degree conferral date also indicates an approximate time for when students can expect to receive their diplomas. Graduation typically refers to the time when students complete their degrees. Some people also use this term to refer to the ceremony which takes place in June. Commencement refers to the actual graduation ceremony. There is only one commencement ceremony which usually takes place on the second Saturday in June.
All students are welcome to participate in the commencement ceremony.
Students may attend the commencement ceremony which occurs in the same calendar year as their official conferral date. Guest tickets are not required. Graduates must bring their reader's card to the ceremony. Reader's cards are distributed during cap and gown distribution and will be used to read graduates' names during the ceremony. All graduates and their guests are invited to attend.