Application for Graduation
Students apply for graduation in their KSIS accounts during the semester they plan on graduating.
Below is some basic information to answer common graduation questions:
Do I have to apply to graduate in order to attend commencement and receive my diploma?
Yes, all students must apply for graduation for each major, minor, secondary major, and certificate by filling out the application in KSIS.
For instructions/guidance on how to apply in KSIS refer to the Apply for Graduation in KSIS resource document.
When is my application due?
Per the University Handbook, Section F121 - students are highly encouraged to file an application for graduation clearance in KSIS not later than the 4th week of the fall or spring semesters and no later than the 2nd week of the summer semester in which the final degree requirements will be satisfied. By applying in this timeframe you can work with your Academic Advisor and College Dean's office to ensure that you are on track for final degree completion as well as have time to make any final adjustments if necessary.
What if my plan (Minors, Majors, Certificate) isn’t listed on the application?
If the application is not there, you need to visit the College (for majors) or Department (for minors) to have the major/minor added to their record. Once this has been processed in KSIS, you can then apply for graduation.
What if I have transfer work coming back to K-State that will complete my final degree requirements?
Undergraduate students MUST send their transcript to the Office of Admissions to be entered into KSIS as soon as grades have posted to your transfer institution's transcript. Each semester a deadline is given for when transcripts must be received; this date can be found on the academic calendar. On the graduation application, you are given the opportunity to list any transfer work still anticipated to be received by K-State, but it is not official until the transcript is received.
We highly encourage that you have on file in your college/department clearance for the final transfer class/classes along with documentation that the transfer course will fulfill any missing degree requirements. Do not assume your transfer work will be directly equivalent or fulfill a missing requirement. Instead, make sure that it is already documented as an Equivalent Transfer course or that the academic department has reviewed the class and determined it will satisfy a final course requirement.
Commencement Ceremonies and Information
See the schedule for Salina and Manhattan ceremonies via the Schedule of Ceremonies Page
Deadlines:
**The deadline to apply to graduate and have your name included in the Fall or Spring commencement program(s) is published on the Academic Calendar
For students graduating in any semester note that in order to ensure your name is printed in the commencement program needed to apply for graduation by the commencement program deadline date.
- Applying by this date will let the university know a student’s intent for being listed as a candidate for a degree in the commencement program, and will ensure you receive all necessary information regarding the commencement ceremony.
- Applying now is of vital importance due to anticipated additional social distancing requirements and restrictions are being considered, as well as ensure that you are communicated with on all commencement options.
- Questions regarding the graduation application for Undergraduate Students may be directed to your College for or to the Graduate School for candidates of graduate programs.
What is the Difference between Graduation vs Commencement?
Graduation (degree awarding/conferral) occurs when students complete all degree requirements, it is confirmed and certified and then officially posted to a student's academic record (official transcript).
Commencement is the formal ceremony, celebrating the graduation of K-State students twice a year. When students participate in Commencement they are considered candidates for graduation but attendance at the ceremony does not mean a student has officially graduated from K-State.
