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Graduates

Commencement is a wonderful and exciting time of the year. Just as nature has embarked on a fresh adventure, so do all of the Vanderbilt graduates of 2013.

August and December 2012 graduates planning to return for the ceremony in May should send us an email to let us know that you will be attending.

Please take some time to explore the various tabs to the left. They give you with tools you need to enjoy a successful Commencement 2013.

Stay up to date with the latest changes by following Commencement online:

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Know Before You Go

  • Order your regalia by April 3rd to avoid late fees – GO
  • Confirm your permanent address with the University Registrar’s office – GO
  • Take care of any University fees before May 1st – GO
  • Undergraduate degrees will be awarded at the main ceremony, all other Graduate/Professional degrees will be awarded at individual ceremonies across campus
  • No adornments are allowed on your caps; honors regalia must be pre-approved (view Adornment Policy) – GO
  • Pick up your regalia on the Wednesday or Thursday the week of Commencement @ Barnes & Noble at Vanderbilt
  • Be at Alumni Lawn on May 10th by 8:25am to receive your official name card and line up
  • Attire:
    • Senior Day:
      • Business casual or nicer
    • Commencement:
      • Men usually usually wear khakis/slacks and a button-down shirt (often with a tie)
      • Women usually wear dresses and non-high heel shoes due to walking on grass.

Key deadlines

  • March 12 – Last day to purchase custom Ph.D. or master’s REGALIA (cap and gown) to arrive for Commencement 2013
  • April 3 – Last day for students to rent REGALIA (cap and gown)
  • April 12 – Final day to order ANNOUNCEMENTS in time for them to arrive before Commencement 2013
  • April 19 – Deadline to reserve PRIVATE DINING RECEPTIONS
  • April 26 – Last day to purchase THE PARTY tickets online
  • May 3 – Deadline to reserve rooms for HOUSING AT THE COMMONS
  • May 3 – Final day to order BOX LUNCHES for Thursday and Friday of Commencement
  • May 11 – Residence halls close for all students at 1 p.m.
  • June 14 – Deadline to order COMMENCEMENT DVD
  • June 30 – Final day to make your SENIOR GIFT

Regalia Adornment Policy

Please review the University’s Adornment Policy as it relates to regalia (cap and gown) during Commencement.

Requirements for Graduation

All requirements for graduation must have been met before a student may participate or “walk” in the ceremony. There are no exceptions. Students who are unsure whether they have fulfilled all requirements should contact the Office of the University Registrar at (615) 322-7707.

A student completing degree requirements in the summer or fall semester 2013 will be invited to participate in Commencement 2014, tentatively scheduled for May 7-9, 2014.

Commencement-TextCommencement Text Alerts

Sign up TODAY for Commencement alerts via text message. This system will contact you with important updates regarding Commencement. You will not be inundated with messages or spammed. All numbers will be purged following Commencement.

International Students

Do you have family or guests coming in from outside the United States that need travel documentation? Request an “Invitation Letter” for Commencement. For more information, please visit the International Student & Scholar Services website.

Senior Class Fund

Our goal is to achieve 1,000 senior donors, or roughly 60% class participation. Give now!

Senior Class Fund 2013 logo

 

Mark your calendars for future commencements:

  • 2014 — May 7, 8, 9
  • 2015 — May 6, 7, 8
  • 2016 — May 11, 12, 13
  • 2017 — May 10, 11, 12