Graduation & Commencement FAQs
Get answers to common graduation and commencement questions.
Applying to Graduate
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Do I need to apply for graduation?
Any student who would like a final review of their degree or certificate requirements must submit an Application for Certificate or Degree form to the Graduation Services office. A separate form is required for each degree or certificate you wish to have reviewed.
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How can I submit my Application for Certificate or Degree form?
Application for Certificate or Degree forms can be emailed to graduation@chemeketa.edu. Download and save the form to your computer and then fill out all necessary information on the form. Forms should be emailed from your MyChemeketa email address. If you are unable to email the form, you can also mail it to the address at the top of the form or drop it off on campus.
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What is a catalog year? How do I determine which catalog year to use?
A catalog year is the degree requirements determined the year you started your program. For example, if you began a program in Fall 2017 then you will use the degree requirements listed in your program’s 2017-2018 catalog.
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Am I allowed to change my catalog year?
Catalog year changes can be made, but you must have taken classes within the catalog year you would like to use. If your studies have been interrupted by two years or more, or if your course of study extends beyond five years then graduation requirements may have changed and you will need to complete additional requirements.
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How do I change my catalog year?
In order to change your catalog year, you will need to complete and submit the electronic Change of Academic Intent/Catalog Year form.
Commencement
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What is the difference between graduation and commencement?
- Graduation is when a student is awarded a certificate or degree once they have satisfied all certificate or degree requirements as verified by the Graduation Services office. All students must submit an Application for Certificate or Degree form in order to have their credits verified. After the verification process, diplomas are emailed and mailed to students.
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If I completed requirements in an earlier term, can I still walk in the ceremony?
Yes, if you have completed the requirements in the current school year you are invited to participate.
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If I’m not graduating until this summer can I still participate in the ceremony?
Yes, if you have a pending graduation application for this summer you may participate in this year’s commencement ceremony.
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What academic honors will be recognized at the ceremony?
Chemeketa Scholars, 4.0 students and Phi Theta Kappa graduates.
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What program do I line up with if I am receiving multiple degrees or certificates?
When you fill out your participation card at the cap and gown distribution events in June you will need to specify which degree or certificate program you would like to walk with at the ceremony.
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Where can I find more information on Commencement?
If you applied for graduation before February you should receive more information in the mail. This information is also available in your My Chemeketa account under Graduation in the Services tab.
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I missed the deadline to order regalia and sign up for Commencement. Is it too late to participate?
Anyone who has not purchased regalia and filled out a walking card will not be able to participate in this year’s Commencement Ceremony. If you miss this year’s deadline you are welcome to participate in next year’s Commencement Ceremony.
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Can I still submit an application to graduate if I missed the deadline for Commencement?
You can submit an Application for a Certificate or Degree at any time.
Diplomas & Transcripts
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What size is my diploma?
If you are a graduate of a college degree or certificate program the dimensions are 8x6. If you are a graduate of our HEP, GED or High School Programs the dimensions are 8½ x 11.
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When are hold for degree transcripts processed?
Hold for degree transcripts should be ordered during the term you are completing your degree requirements. Transcripts should not be ordered as hold for degree after final grades have been posted, but as regular official transcript orders. Graduation Services processes hold for degree transcripts the week after final grades have been posted. Any ordered after will be processed the following term.
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How do I get my GED transcripts or certificates?
You will need to contact –
Oregon GED Program
255 Capitol St NE
Salem, OR 97310-0203
Phone: 503.947.2442 -
How will I receive my diploma?
If you were awarded a degree or certificate, you will receive an email from Parchment about how to claim your electronic diploma and a copy will also be sent in the mail.