Steps to Graduate
The Process
The process to preparation for graduation and commencement can be confusing. Please review the steps below to make sure you are ready to graduate.
STEP 1: Apply to Graduate!
Submitting a “Request to Graduate” form will initiate the process for both graduation and Commencement information.
You are required to submit an online “Request to Graduate” form to the Registrar’s Office upon receiving advisement for your final academic term, or approximately six months prior to your expected graduation. This application is located online at Student Forms Central .
You are not eligible to graduate or attend Commencement until your “Request to Graduate” is on file in the Registrar’s Office and is processed. As a candidate for graduation, you will receive an informational/graduation packet as confirmation that your application has been processed (see step 2).
STEP 2: You must read your KMail for important announcements!
The following will be sent to your KMail:
- Graduation Audit Letter will be sent after your Request to Graduate form has been processed. It will inform you if more classes are needed to complete your program or if you are on track. Any questions should be directed to the Registrar’s Office at 989-275-5000, ext. 251.
- If you have requested to participate in the ceremony, Commencement information will be emailed to your KMail. This will indicate the date of Commencement as well as other important information regarding the ceremony.
STEP 3: Are you eligible to attend commencement?
All Fall, Winter and Summer graduates (and candidates) are eligible to attend Commencement.
Individuals who are unsure of their eligibility to participate in Commencement should contact the Registrar’s Office at (989) 275-5000, ext. 251.
STEP 4: Purchase and pick up your cap and gown.
You will purchase your regalia online through Herff Jones. The Campus Store will provide help with cap and gown sizing and distribution. Students will be notified when their orders are available to pick up from the Campus Store.
Honor cords will be given to undergraduates who will graduate with honors (cum laude, magna cum laude or summa cum laude) who participate in the ceremony. For students completing their programs Winter 2025 or Summer 2025, your G.P.A. from the Fall semester 2024 will be used to determine whether you will receive an honor cord. If you are eligible for an honor cord, you will receive it when you check-in before the actual ceremony.
STEP 5: What can I wear to the ceremony?
Academic attire is required for participation in the Commencement ceremony. All regalia must look the same. The elastic portion of the cap should be at the back.
Professional dress is recommended for Commencement. Keep the temperature and weather in mind when choosing your clothing. Blue jeans, tennis shoes, shorts and flip flops are strongly discouraged.
Kirtland Community College allows the following adornments with the graduates’ academic regalia:
- Honor Cords (given only to eligible graduates – see Honor Cords)
- PTK Honor Society (stole)
- Honors Program (medallion)
- Veterans will receive a special cord
Miscellaneous
If special provisions are needed for those with physical challenges, please contact Heidi Fraser prior to Commencement Day at 989-275-5000, ext. 440.
Photographs and Diplomas
A professional photographer will be on hand to take a photo of each graduate with their diploma cover. A copy of the photo will be sent to students after the ceremony.
At Kirtland, diplomas are not distributed at Commencement. Instead, the diploma cover, including a note from the President, is handed out.
Diplomas are mailed to the graduated once all graduation requirements have been met and are always dated the last day of the graduating term. Because they are mailed, please be sure that we have your current mailing address on record in the Registrar’s Office.
Questions?
You may contact the Registrar’s Office at 989-275-5000, ext. 251 with any further questions or concerns.
