Graduation

Are you ready to graduate? Find information on how-to apply, the requirements for graduation and commencement.

How-To Apply

• Observe the deadline dates: March 2 for Spring graduation, June 1 for Summer graduation and October 1 for Fall graduation   
• Check your Degree Progress Report
• Complete the APPLICATION FOR GRADUATION (applications are valid for one semester)
• See your faculty advisor if you have any questions.

For additional information, check out the Frequently Asked Questions page.  

Graduation Requirements

To be eligible for graduation, all associate degree, certificate and career studies certificate students must:

• Fulfill all of the course work and credit hour requirements as outlined in the college catalog
• Be approved for graduation by their faculty advisor
• Earn a grade point average of at least 2.00
• Complete at least 25% of the credit required at NOVA
• Resolve all financial obligations to the college and return all materials

• 3.20 - 3.49: Cum Laude (With Honor)
• 3.50 - 3.79: Magna Cum Laude (With High Honor)
• 3.80 - 4.00: Summa Cum Laude (With Highest Honor)

Spring honors cannot be designated until final grades are posted and degrees/certificates are awarded. Honors designations will be posted to the student’s transcript and diploma/certificate. The Dean’s List and Presidential Scholars List is posted twice a year. For detailed information, check the College Catalog.

Commencement

A commencement ceremony is held each year in May. There is no fee for graduation, but students are required to purchase academic regalia for the ceremony. Regalia (cap & gown) can be purchased from any NOVA campus bookstore.

NOVA's 2010 Commencement will take place on Sunday, May 16 at 2:00 p.m. at George Mason University's Patriot Center. Click on this link for other important graduation details. This year you can preregister for commencement photos, to ensure that you'll receive your proofs in a timely manner.

Check back here for Spring 2010 Commencement Fair information.