Graduation is not automatic!

In addition to completing all of your program requirements, you must declare your intent to graduate. Applying for graduation assumes that you intend to finish all of the university and major requirements as outlined by your degree program by the term you selected. You must declare your intent by following the instructions the Registrar's Office provides. If you do not apply to graduate, your degree will not be awarded. If you are pursuing both the M.Ed. and Certificate, you must apply to graduate for each program!

Procedure

Students eligible to graduate should receive an e-mail from the Registrar (at your UMB email address) outlining the process to apply for graduation. This procedure is also detailed on the Registrar's website, under "Graduate Students". We encourage you to review these instructions carefully, and far in advance of your intended graduation date.

There are two steps to apply to graduate, and you must complete both (in this order):

1. Apply to graduate through WISER.
2. Complete the General Graduate Degree Application for Masters, CAGS, EDS,MFA and Doctoral Degrees (available from the Registrar)

You must then submit your completed degree application form and unofficial UMB transcripts to the Registrar’s Office by the application deadline.

Note: You do not need to obtain your Program Director's signature for your degree application. The Registrar will do this on your behalf after your degree application and unofficial transcript are received.

Once your degree application is approved, the Bursars office will bill you for the mandatory commencement fee of $200.00. Fees are subject to change. Please consult the Bursar's website for current information.

Deadlines

Deadlines are listed on the Registrar's website. These deadlines are strictly enforced - if you miss the deadline for your term, you may not receive your degree until the following semester.

Road Blocks

If there are any outstanding issues, for example, change of grade, incorrect credits, incorrect courses, missing courses, transfer of credit, etc. you will be notified by your graduate program director. Any change of grade forms, transfer credit approval forms, and/or memos must be submitted for any changes to be made.These forms will be attached to the degree application form before being re-submitted to the Registrar.

Diplomas

Diplomas are mailed 10 weeks after the conferral date for which you applied, assuming that you have met all of requirements. Diplomas are mailed directly from the diploma company to your mailing address. To ensure delivery, please check that your contact information is up to date in WISER. If you are moving, please remember to arrange for the appropriate mail forwarding services with your post office. More information on diplomas and transcripts is available from the Registrar.

Commencement

Information about the commencement ceremony, ordering a cap and gown, etc., can be found at the UMass Boston Commencement website