COMMENCEMENT.
The date for the degree awarded is the conclusion of the summer, fall or spring terms in which all the degree requirements were completed. The student is cleared for the degree award and the degree is posted on the official transcript at the conclusion of the summer, fall or spring terms in which all degree requirements were completed and all other obligations to the University have been met. Diplomas are awarded only at a ceremony at the conclusion of the spring semester each year to those students who have completed all degree requirements and fulfilled all obligations to the University that spring or during the previous summer session or fall semester. Students submit degree applications during the second semester of the junior year. Participation in Commencement exercises is limited to those official degree candidates who have completed all degree requirements and met all obligations to the University.
All official degree candidates are expected to attend Commencement exercises. If attendance is not possible, a degree candidate must request permission from the Dean of the Faculty to graduate in absentia. This request should include an address for the mailing of the diploma (if it cannot be picked up in person after graduation) and must be presented to the Dean of the Faculty at least two weeks before Commencement.
Participation in Commencement exercises is limited to those official degree candidates who have completed all degree requirements. In other words, only those students who submitted timely degree applications and who are completely finished may “walk.” All final grades for all courses (UMW and transfer) must be on record and the record approved for graduation by an official of the University before a student will be permitted to participate in the graduation ceremony.