The commencement program is the official schedule or booklet for a graduation ceremony. It includes details about the ceremony, such as the order of events, the names of graduates, guest speakers, and honorees.

Check back in late April 2026 for 2026 Commencement Programs.

Who's eligible for 2026 Commencement? Who can walk in the graduation ceremony?

Students must fall into one of these categories:

• Registered for the Spring 2026 Semester with a Spring 2026, Summer 2026, or Fall 2026 graduation date.
• Awarded degree for the Fall 2025 Semester.

Is commencement the same thing as graduation?

No, graduation refers to when your degree is officially awarded and your diploma gets mailed. Commencement is the graduation ceremony that is held once per year.

What's a Graduation Application and why do students need to fill it out?

You are required to fill out this application to specify 1) how your name is printed on your diploma, and 2) the address where your diploma is mailed. Also, your application determines which semester you are reviewed for degree completion/graduation.

Note: If you're finishing internship or other credits in the upcoming summer or fall semesters, then you should select Summer 2026 or Fall 2026 on your Graduation Application.

What are my commencement options if I have a Fall 2026 graduation date?

You can choose to participate in this year's commencement or next year's. It's your choice (if you are not attending this year, no notice is required and you may disregard any reminders and invites you receive).

What are my commencement options if I'm finishing an associate degree and continuing for a bachelor's?

Some students choose to participate in commencement twice – now for their associate degree and again later for their bachelor's. Other students choose to wait to participate in commencement once when they're finishing their bachelor's degree. It's your choice (if you are not attending this year, no notice is required and you may disregard any reminders and invites you receive).

How and when will I receive my diploma?

You will be reviewed for graduation (degree completion) at the end of the semester that's listed on your Graduation Application. The review process lasts approximately 30 business days. When degree completion is verified and your degree has been officially awarded, your diploma will be ordered at that time and mailed to the address that's listed on your Graduation Application. You will be notified via JWU email at the beginning and end of this review.

Past Programs