The University of Iowa

Graduation Checklist

The Graduation Checklist is designed to be a one-stop shop for graduation related information.

Graduation and Commencement are two related, yet separate processes at IOWA.

  • Graduation is applying for degree, completing your degree audit, getting your degree conferred, and receiving your diploma. 
  • Commencement is the ritual conferring of degrees through a ceremony with your classmates and guests. Participating in commencement is optional; you must RSVP Yes to be individually recognized during a ceremony. 
  • Applying for a degree does not sign you up to attend commencement.

Also included in this list are some helpful links for transitioning to Alumni Status and Staying Connected to the Hawkeye family!

Degree Services

Need help with a Degree Audit? Applying for Degree? Have questions about diplomas? Degree Services is here to help!

Contact Degree Services

Apply for Degree

You MUST apply for your degree to graduate!

Apply for Degree

Degree Audit

Have you completed all your degree requirements?

Degree Audit Information

Diplomas

Diplomas are not given out at the ceremonies. They are delivered separately.

Diploma Information

Attend Your Ceremony

Commencement ceremonies and apparel options are based on the college of the graduate. Students must RSVP to be included in a commencement ceremony.

Attending commencement is optional. Degrees are not distributed at commencements. Not attending commencement does not impact your ability to receive your degree.

RSVP

You must Opt-In via MyUI to attend and be recognized at your commencement ceremony.

The RSVP portal for spring 2024 is open. Upcoming deadlines will be communicated to students via their university email accounts.

RSVP Information

Find Your Ceremony

Most commencement ceremonies occur over the weekend after Finals Week and are based on the graduate's primary college.

Each college has their own ceremony.

Find your Ceremony

Get Apparel

All graduates are expected to wear academic regalia at their ceremonies. The color of the tassel to purchase is determined by the college the student is enrolled in. .

Apparel Information

Off-Cycle Participation

Some students wish to participate in a ceremony during a session before all degree requirements have been met or after their degree has been conferred. 

Off-Cycle Information

 

Other Academic Recognitions

In addition to earning a degree, many students qualify for other academic recognitions.

These recognitions can impact how your diploma looks, how your name is listed in the program, read at commencement, or what items can be added to your regalia.

 

Honors

There are two types of honors at the University of Iowa:

  • University Honors
  • Honors in the Major

Honors Information

Distinction

Distinction stars are earned by meeting academic criteria established by the colleges.

Distinction Information

Cords, Stoles, More...

There are many clubs, groups, and organizations that membership qualifies you for a commemorative graduation item.

More Commemorative Information

 

Transition to Alumni Status

Follow these steps to have a smooth transition to Alumni status.

Update your Address

Update your Residing Address via MyUI; future communications from the University of Iowa will be sent to this address.

Update Address on MyUI

Update Email

See how your technology services will be impacted by graduation.

IT Service Information for Graduating Students

Pay Final U-Bill

Remit payment for any outstanding balance on your U-Bill via MyUI. Transcripts and diplomas may not be released until your balance is paid in full.

Pay U-Bill on MyUI

Financial Aid

Financial Aid impacts each student differently; student borrowers should contact the Office of Student Financial Aid to determine if exit counseling is required.

Office of Financial Aid

Health Insurance

Cancel student health insurance if enrolled in the Student Health Insurance Plan (SHIP).

SHIP Information

Parking

Click the button to cancel your permit online or contact the parking office via email at parking-office@uiowa.edu if you have additional questions.

Cancel Parking Permit

First Destination Survey

Let the Career Center know about what you are doing next (job/continuing education/etc.). This information helps future Hawkeyes explore what they can do with their major.

Graduation Survey

Center for Advancement

Learn how UI alumni, fans, and friends can stay connected and get involved.

Center for Advancement Website