Graduation
See below for an outline of preparing and applying for graduation, requirements, and frequently asked questions.
Preparing for Graduation
Students should begin preparing for graduation prior to their final semester/session at ESCC by ensuring that the classes they are enrolled in satisfy the requirements of their program/curriculum/plan.
Helpful tips:
Meet with your Academic Advisor – A vital step in making sure that all of your requirements have been met! Reviewing your progress together will help ensure that you have, in fact, satisfied the curriculum in your program.
Submit your graduation application – You must submit your graduation application through SIS. Although your courses may be complete, an application to graduate must be submitted by the student!
Check your VCCS email – Make it a habit to regularly check your VCCS email for any communication regarding graduation details (application status, diploma order, commencement updates, etc.).
Verify your contact information is correct – Confirm that your name and mailing address are listed correctly in SIS. This information is used when ordering and distributing your diploma/certificate.
General Graduation Requirements
Students should be recommended to apply for graduation by the appropriate instruction authority in their curriculum. Contact Student Services with any questions.
A student must have successfully completed all requirements listed in the catalog of record. Substitutions must be approved by the Vice President of Academic, Student, and Workforce Education.
A grade point average of at least 2.0 should be earned on all coursework applicable toward the student’s curriculum in order to graduate from said program.
Each student must apply for graduation by submitting their application via SIS by the required deadline.
Students must resolve all financial obligations to the college and return all materials including, but not limited to, library books and loaned laptops.
Frequently Asked Questions
We strongly urge you to meet with your Academic Advisor at least one semester/session before you plan to graduate. During this meeting, you will review your enrollment and coursework together to make sure you have satisfied your curriculum. Being proactive gives you a chance to make any necessary changes beforehand!
Simply put, no, these are not the same things; Graduation is the completion of a program/curriculum, whereas Commencement is the ceremony held that honors students who just have (or will soon) graduate(d). Participating in Commencement does not automatically mean that a student has graduated.
Students are encouraged to apply for graduation during the early weeks of their last term. This gives the college staff an opportunity to review the application and determine if all of the related courses have (and will be satisfied) for their curriculum.