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What is the difference between graduation and commencement?

Graduation is the completion of all degree requirements in order to be awarded your degree and receive your printed diploma. Commencement is the symbolic ceremony at which your graduation is publically acknowledged and celebrated. Participation in the Commencement ceremony does not equate to graduating.

How does my name get on the graduation list?

You must follow the directions from Registrar's Office for Applying for Graduation. Upon completion of these steps and approval from the Registrar's Office, your graduation status on LEO Online will be changed to "Pending."

When do I apply for my degree?

Please refer to the . Note that not only does applying for graduation on time allow you to receive guest tickets for the Commencement ceremony, but also puts your name in the Commencement program. Graduates who apply after the deadline will not have their names listed in the program. The names of August graduates will appear in the program in the May prior.

I have questions about whether or not I am eligible to graduate. Who do I talk to?

It is important that you meet with your academic advisor early in the graduation process to ensure that you meet all of your requirements and necessary deadlines.

I applied to graduate but now I am no longer eligible. What do I do?

Once your graduation status is listed as "Pending," a registration hold is placed on your record and you will be unable to register for classes for future semesters. It is important to notify the Registrar's Office in writing as soon as possible if you will not be graduating so that this hold can be released.

I'm graduating in August. Which ceremony should I attend?

August graduation candidates should attend the May ceremony. The names of the August graduates will appear in the May Commencement program. August graduates must apply for graduation and register for Commencement by February 28.

Do I have to register to attend the Commencement ceremony?

Yes. You are not automatically registered for ommencement when you apply for graduation, but the Commencement registration is now part of the Application for Graduation. Every graduate who wishes to attend the ceremony must click to check the Commencement checkbox while filling out the graduation application form in LeoOnline. Only graduates who complete the participation registration portion of the graduation application will have guest tickets available to them.

If you apply for graduation and either did not choose to register to participate in the ceremony at that time and wish to do so now, or you wish to cancel your registration, please send an email with your request and your UIN to commencement@odu.edu.

What time should I arrive for the ceremony?

Graduates should report to the check-in area no later than one hour prior to the start of the ceremony. Detailed day-of instructions will be sent to you approximately one week prior to the date of your Commencement ceremony.

How do I get my cap and gown?

You must purchase these items at the Graduation Fair, which takes place at the University Village Bookstore or online through the . If you miss the Grad Fair, please contact the .

Will there be an interpreter for the hearing impaired?

Yes. Sign language interpreters will be located on the stage. For other accommodation needs for the deaf or hearing impaired, please contact commencement@odu.edu.

Can a family member walk with me?

No. Only graduating students may walk in the processional or be seated on the arena floor. All family members must be seated in the guest seating with a ticket.

What if there is inclement weather?

The fall commencement ceremonies are held indoors. If inclement weather does affect a ceremony information will be shared on the odu.edu homepage.