Applying for Undergraduate Graduation

Graduating Students

Planning to Graduate? Here’s What You Need to Know!
If you’re getting ready to graduate, you’ll need to apply through the Office of the Registrar.

On this page you’ll find all the essential information and steps you need to successfully apply for your undergraduate degree at UNC. From submitting your application and understanding important deadlines to paying the graduation fee and coordinating with your academic advisor, this page guides you through the process to ensure everything is in order for your big day. Whether you’re graduating in the spring, summer, or interim terms, we’ve got you covered with details on commencement participation and what to expect once your application is submitted. Applying for graduation is the first step in celebrating your achievement!

Bachelor's Degrees

There’s a $50 non-refundable graduation application fee. It’s only charged once per degree and will be added to your student account. This fee covers the processing of your degree and the cost of ordering and mailing your diploma.

If you’re also finishing a Certificate program, another $50 fee will be charged to your account once your second application is accepted.

If you apply for both at the same time, you’ll only be charged the $50 fee once.
No worries. All graduating students are assessed the graduation fee, whether or not you attend the ceremony.

Applications are Accepted

Important Graduation Application Info

To make sure you’re included in the cap and gown ordering system, you must apply for graduation at least 48 hours before the cap and gown deadline. This gives us time to process your application and verify your status.

Miss the deadline?

You’ll need to rent your cap and gown at distribution—and pay a late fee in cash at that time. Avoid the stress by applying early!

When Should You Apply?

After you’ve registered for your final semester

Be sure your schedule is set before submitting your application.

Summer Graduates

You’ll participate in the spring commencement ceremony. You can apply starting November 1, but you must be registered for spring coursework.

After all course adjustments are made

Make sure everything is updated in Degree Works and you’ll meet your degree requirements once your current classes are passed.

Exceptions

If you’re transferring in final coursework or completing Oral Proficiency Exam, Biology or Chemistry Exit Exam, Art Portfolio, or Senior Music Recital you can still apply.

How to Apply

Before you fill out your application, make sure to meet with your academic advisor to confirm you’re on track.

Graduate Students

Please contact the Graduate School directly for graduation application instructions.

What Happens Next

You’ll get a confirmation email sent to your Bear Mail once your application is received. If anything is missing or incomplete, you and your advisor will receive a follow-up email within 5–10 business days.

Final Reminders

All graduation requirements (and any necessary documentation) must be completed two weeks before official transcripts are released for that semester.

Need to make a change to your application?

Call the Office of the Registrar at 970-351-4UNC (4862) to update your info or request a different graduation date. If your plans change after submitting—like your graduation semester, course substitutions, or repeats—be sure to notify the Registrar.

Graduating During an Interim Term?

Degrees are not awarded during interim terms. If you complete your requirements during an interim, you’ll officially be considered a graduate of the subsequent spring semester.

What to Do If Your Graduation Application is Denied

If your graduation application isn’t approved, it usually means there are still some requirements to complete.
Your next step is to connect with the Academic Advising team. They’ll help you understand what’s missing and guide you through your next steps.
Once all requirements are met, you’re welcome to re-apply for graduation.
It’s a good idea to run a new Degree Works report each time you register for classes or make changes to your record like course substitutions, transfer credits, major or minor updates.
This helps you keep an eye on your GPA, LAC, major, minor, and graduation requirements so there are no surprises later on.

Participating in the Commencement Ceremony

Have questions? We’re here to help you celebrate your big moment!

Graduating in Summer or the Interim Term?

There is no Summer ceremony, but Summer graduates are invited to walk in the Spring commencement. If you’re finishing your requirements during an Interim term, you’ll also walk in the Spring ceremony, and your degree will be officially conferred in the following Spring semester.

Out-of-State Student Teaching or Internship?

If you’re doing your student teaching or internship out of state during your final semester, you may be eligible for an exception.

To request this:

Start by submitting the Petition to Participate in Commencement form and include a letter from your advisor confirming they’ve approved your out-of-state experience. Additionally, you must provide documentation from the host facility confirming they’ve accepted you for the internship or student teaching.