1. How do I apply for graduation?
Observe the deadline dates:

• March 1 for Spring graduation (applications can be submitted October 2 - March 1);
• June 1 for Summer graduation (applications can be submitted March 2 - June 1);
• October 1 for Fall graduation (applications can be submitted June 2 - October 1);

The online graduation application is available 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Applications are only valid for one semester.

• Check your Degree Progress Report.
• See your faculty advisor if you have any questions.
• Complete and submit the online graduation application.

2. I don’t know who my faculty advisor is. What should I do?
Contact your division office or a counselor.

3. What happens if I miss the deadline?
Your application will be dated for the following semester (see dates in #1) . Your application will be processed and awarded with the next semesters graduation applications. Note: If you miss the spring graduation application deadline you name will not be printed in the commencement program.

4. How will I know whether my application has been received?
All communication will be emailed to your NOVA email address.

5. What should I do if I have questions?
Contact your faculty advisor or a counselor.

6. What should I do if I’ve completed more than one program?
You need to submit a separate application for each program you are completing.

7. If I don’t complete the requirements during this term, will my application carry over to the next term?
No, you’ll have to reapply. Applications are only good for one semester.

8. What if I finish my degree or certificate in one term but don’t apply until later?
Your degree will be awarded the semester you submitted your application for graduation.  The date you actually completed requirements will  appear on your transcript in this fashion: Requirements completed summer 2009. Degree awarding begins the last day of the semester.

9. Why do I have to apply for graduation?
Your application signals the College to begin your degree audit. It also tells us that it’s time to order your diploma.

10. What is my catalog year?
Your catalog year is the catalog you have been following to meet curriculum requirements.

11. What is a degree audit?
A degree audit is the process of checking your records to be sure that you have met all of the requirements for graduation. This includes making sure that transfer courses and substitutions have been properly applied to your degree or certificate program.

12. When will I receive my diploma or certificate?
You should receive your diploma or certificate approximately two months after the end of the semester.

13. What do I do if I need to withdraw my application for graduation?
You must submit a letter addressed to the Central Records Office stating you wish to rescind your application for graduation. This letter must be submitted to the Student Services Center before the final day of the semester. You must also reapply for graduation when you are ready to graduate. Applications for graduation are only valid for one semester.