FAQ

The Commencement Ceremony is a voluntary celebration to which all students projected to successfully complete all degree or certificate requirements by the end of the semester are invited but not required to attend. Graduation is the official awarding of degrees.  The process begins with a student submitting an online Application for Degree (AFD), and then completing all academic requirements for your degree, and settling all financial obligations to the University.

Commencement is held twice a year, at the end of the Fall and Spring semesters.

View commencement dates here.

Summer grads are recognized and participate in the May (Spring) ceremony, which precedes the summer session.

Check with your college advisor to see if you have completed all your necessary requirements. You can also run your degree works audit to see your completion progress.

AFD stands for Application for Degree. You file your AFD to let the university know that you intend to graduate in a specific semester. The AFD is located in your myWSU portal > myClasses > Graduation Links. Prior to filing your AFD, you should review your Degree Works Audit and verify everything is correct. For help, please contact your college's graduation advisor.

FOR GRADUATE STUDENTS ONLY: There is a $25.00 fee in order to file your AFD. Click here for more details.

IMPORTANT: The AFD also lets you list your name as you wish it to appear on your diploma, in the commencement program and read/displayed at commencement. PLEASE TAKE EXTRA CARE TO VERIFY THAT THIS FIELD IS CORRECT.

Undergrad Students
Fall Graduates: OCTOBER 1
Spring/Summer Graduates: MARCH 1

Graduate Students: 20th day of classes

File your AFD and then email commencement@wichita.edu. There are no guarantees that your name will be in the program if you missed the deadline. 

Yes. Outstanding balance/other obligations will only affect the release of your diploma/transcript. Your diploma and transcript will not be released if you owe the university money or property, with limited exceptions consistent with state and federal laws. If you have questions about any outstanding obligations, please contact the Financial Operations Office at (316) 978-3333. 

Although there is no fee to participate in commencement, students are required to wear academic regalia (cap and gown).

GRADUATE STUDENTS ONLY: There is a $25.00 fee in order to file your AFD.

Emails will be sent out about a week after the AFD deadline (OCT 1 for Fall and March 1 for Spring) to graduates who filed their AFD by the deadline. This email will instruct you on how to RSVP for commencement.

The AFD lets the university know that you intend to graduate. The AFD is used to add you to the RSVP system and put you in the program. The commencement RSVP lets us know that you want to walk in the commencement ceremony. Those wishing to walk must RSVP to obtain their GradPass which is needed to enter the arena for commencement.

If you haven't filed your AFD, please do so, then email commencement@wichita.edu.

Participation is voluntary. Participation in Commencement is unrelated to graduation and the awarding of your degree.  Even if you don't want to participate in the commencement ceremony, you still need to file your AFD. When you get the email asking you to RSVP for commencement, log in and submit a NO rsvp.

HOWEVER, if you think you might want to, or are unsure if you can make it, we encourage you to RSVP anyway. It is easier to remove an RSVP than add one. 

Walk Late: Graduates can walk up to one year (2 commencement ceremonies) after their official graduation semester. Please email commencement@wichita.edu with your original graduation semester, reason for postponing your walk, and desired ceremony to walk in.

Walk Early: Graduates may walk up to one semester early (1 ceremony) if their college approves. Graduates must contact their college advisor with this request and then have the advisor email the commencement office with the approval. NOTE: Graduates walking early do not qualify for academic honors to be displayed/announced at the commencement ceremony. Honors (if applicable) will be displayed in the program the semester the student officially graduates.

NOTE: Graduate's names will only be listed in the program the semester they officially graduate(d).

Graduates must email student.verification@wichita.edu to obtain the necessary documents. The Commencement Office does not provide the letter. 

If you filed your AFD before the deadline and marked YES to include your name in the program, your name will be listed.  

The university only confers honors for undergraduate degrees. 

Honors are based on BOTH the WSU cumulative grade point average and the overall cumulative grade point average:

Summa Cum Laude ≥ 3.9

Magna Cum Laude ≥ 3.55

Cum Laude ≥ 3.25

As grades are not confirmed in time for commencement or the program, student honors are listed based off the prior semester’s GPAs. There are no exceptions. Your final honors will be reflected on your diploma.

No. The honors awards of cum laude, magna cum laude, and summa cum laude are traditionally undergraduate awards and not applied in most US Universities to graduate level degree programs. The requirement of a B average to maintain good standing and have a degree awarded means that graduate degrees in general are at an honors level, so no additional individual honors are applied.

No. As grades are not confirmed in time for commencement or the program, student honors are listed based off the prior semester’s GPAs. There are no exceptions. Your final honors will be reflected on your diploma and may differ from what is in the program or at commencement.

Students can only walk for one degree/major in a single semester. Students can choose which degree they would like to walk for. Both degrees will be listed in the program. 

The Toast is a graduation celebration held by Student Affairs each semester. Click here to learn more or RSVP.

Check with your college to see if they host any college specific graduation events.  

The name on your diploma will read the same as the name on the degree application that you completed online, provided that the Office of the Registrar has a record of the name. Please contact Jama at jama.challans@wichita.edu if you have questions regarding your name on your diploma. The deadline for submitting name changes is the last day of classes. The last day of classes is listed on the Semester Calendar.

No. You will not receive your diploma at the commencement ceremony, just the diploma cover. Confirmation of degree completion will not take place until official grades are posted.

Diploma distribution dates are listed below. Diplomas can be picked up at the transcript window on the first floor in Jardine Hall on the Main Campus. If the distribution dates fall on a weekend or holiday, diplomas will be available the next business day. You must show identification to pick up your diploma and cover.

Fall diplomas:  Available starting February 8

Spring diplomas:  Available starting July 1

Summer diplomas:  Available starting September 8

Dates are subject to change. Official communication will be sent out to all graduates regarding pickup of their diplomas.

If you wish to have your diploma sent to you in the mail, please request and pay for this service through the myWSU portal. Simply log in, click the myClasses tab, locate the Graduation Links section, click the Request for Diploma Mailing link and submit your shipping and payment information.

Undergrad majors will appear on your diploma. Minors/tracks/emphasises are reflected on your transcript.

There is no charge for the diploma and cover. Graduates who participate in commencement will receive their diploma cover on stage. Those who do not participate may pick it up with their diploma or have it mailed. There is a $12 trackable mail charge for mailing diplomas. 

Diplomas will not be provided to students with outstanding financial or other obligations to the University, with limited exceptions consistent with state and federal laws.  If you have questions about any outstanding obligations, please contact the Financial Operations Office at (316) 978-3333. 

Regalia (the cap and gown) is required for all participating students. Gowns must be worn fully zipped at all times. Doctorates, Specialists, and Masters degrees have special hoods. Stoles and cords may be worn but are not required.

You may place an order online at www.shockerstore.com or in-person at the Shocker Store on Wichita State's main campus in the Rhatigan Student Center. It is strongly recommended that you order your regalia for commencement by mid-semester, however; you do have the option to order up thru the day before commencement. Please note that stock may be limited the closer it gets to commencement.There is package pricing is available for regalia. The Shocker Store will provide the dates and details once regalia is up on their website, which is normally around the time of fall and spring breaks. Package pricing remains in effect until approximately two weeks before commencement.  If regalia is not on the Shocker Store website it means that their main shipment has not arrived yet, and they only have limited stock on-hand.

Bachelor's Students (and Associates): Bachelor’s gown, mortarboard cap, major tassel (by color)

Master's Students: Master’s gown, mortarboard cap, master hood (by color), major tassel (by color)

Specialist Students: Master’s gown, mortarboard cap, specialist hood (by color), major tassel (by color)

Doctoral Students: Doctoral gown, mortarboard cap or tam, doctorate hood (by color), Dr. Old Gold major tassel (by color)

There is package pricing is available for regalia. The Shocker Store will provide the dates and details once regalia is up on their website, which is normally around the time of fall and spring breaks. Package pricing remains in effect until approximately two weeks before commencement.  If regalia is not on the Shocker Store website it means that their main shipment has not arrived yet, and they only have limited stock on-hand.

Yes; avoid anything that is inappropriate. Cap decoration must not block the view of other graduates and guests.

The turning of the tassel is used to signify a person’s transition from candidate to graduate.

Bachelor’s/Associates: For an undergraduate degree, tassels are worn on the right side of the cap before the ceremony and are then moved from the right side to the left when directed to do so by the graduation speaker.

Master’s/Specialist/Doctorate: For graduate degrees, tassels are worn on the left side of the cap before, during and after graduating as you have already received an undergraduate degree.

No. Certain specialty (pre-order only) stoles are available for order; graduates should know if they are eligible for these stoles. If uncertain, please contact your college to inquire. The only stoles carried in-stock, as an open stock item, are for the Honors College.

The Shocker Store sells a gold double-knotted honor cord for Summa Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, and Cum Laude distinctions. Wearing the honor cord is optional.

Yes. Please contact the Shocker Store for assistance. www.shockerstore.com 

There is no official dress code. It is strongly recommended that all graduates wear comfortable shoes for their comfort and safety.

Graduates should check in at Koch arena 1 hour prior to the ceremony start time. Graduates should already be wearing their regalia. At check-in students will present their printed GradPass to be scanned in. Graduates must keep this as it will be used to announce your name as you cross the stage. After going through security, Graduates will proceed to the Aetna practice gym to line up. Listen to the directions you are given and stay in your lines. About 10 minutes prior to the ceremony, the lines will leave the gym and proceed to the large tunnel entrance of the arena. Follow the directions and stay in your lines. At the start of the ceremony, graduates will follow the marshals and proceed into the arena. You will be directed by the marshals to stand in rows. Once you are in your seat, stay standing until you are told to sit. When it is time for individual recognition, follow the marshals directions to the stage. GradImages will take of a photo of you before you enter the ramp. You will wait in line, proceeding up the ramp to the scanner. They will scan your GradPass. Please have it ready.  When your name is read, proceed forward to receive your diploma cover, and then exit the stage down the center stairs. President Muma will be at the bottom of the stairs to congratulate you. Once down the stairs, you will follow the marshals down the center aisle and back to your seat. Students are expected to stay for the duration of the ceremony. After all the students have crossed the stage, the alma matter will be sung and the Shocker Sound Machine will play the fight song. PLEASE NOTE: Streamer cannons will be fired near the end of the ceremony resulting in a loud bang. Once the platform party and faculty recess down the center aisle, you will be directed by the marshals to follow. Graduates will exit the arena out the large tunnel unless there is inclement weather. Graduates should predesignate an area outside the arena to meet their guests as it can be difficult to locate people in the crowd.

There is no rehearsal or practice for graduates.

Graduates should arrive 1 hour prior to the ceremony start.

Graduates should check in at the Koch Arena Ticket Office located on the southwest side of the building.

Yourself, your regalia, and your printed GradPass. Do not bring personal items as there is no way to secure them. Bring only what you intend to carry with you for the duration of the ceremony.

Graduates who RSVPd by the deadline will be issued a GradPass. This is your ticket into the event and will be used to announce your name when your cross the stage. Please have this printed. 

Regalia (the cap and gown) is required for all participating students. Gowns must be worn fully zipped at all times. Doctorates, Specialists and Masters degrees have special hoods. Stoles and cords may be worn but are not required.

Please contact the Office of Disability Services at 316-978-3309 and the Commencement Office (commencement@wichita.edu) as soon as you RSVP.

Ceremonies typically last 2-2.5 hours. 

No. Graduates are expected to stay for the entire ceremony.  

Graduates will be photographed as they wait to walk across stage and again as they receive their diploma cover. Photograph proofs and rate sheets will be emailed to the graduates a few weeks after the event. 

No. However, if you can't make it to your ceremony, graduates can walk up to one year (two semesters) after their official graduation date. Please contact the Commencement Office for assistance. 

Only graduates are permitted on stage. If you have extenuating circumstances, you must email commencement@wichita.edu as soon as you RSVP.

No. Graduates' official degree title as provided by the registrar's office is what is displayed at commencement. Majors will be shown in the commencement program. 

No. There is no limit to how many guests a student can bring. Guest seating is first come, first served.

All seating is first come, first serve. Please leave ample time to park, enter the arena, go through security, and be seated prior to the ceremony. Doors open 1 hour prior to the ceremony start time. You are encouraged to arrive early as security lines can be long.

Ceremonies typically last 2-2.5 hours.

Livestream links will be posted on the front page of commencement website wichita.edu/commencement a few weeks before the ceremony.

All graduates will be called across the stage individually. Doctoral candidates will be hooded first, followed by Masters' graduates and then Bachelor's and Associates graduates. In the fall, students are not separated by college, only by level. In the spring, students are separated by level and by college. Graduates are not alphabetized or separated by degree/major in any ceremony.

Pictures can be ordered through GradImages. Photograph proofs and rate sheets will be emailed to the graduates a few weeks after the event. If you wish to order your photographs over the phone please call Grad Images at 1-800-261-2576, or you can visit their website at www.gradimages.com. 

Seating for guests with disabilities and companions are available in Sections 106, 108, 110, 120, 121, and 122.

Limited Mobility seating is available in Sections 104, 112, 119 and 123, rows 15 & 16.

Seating is first come, first served. There are no reservations.

There is limited companion seating available.

ASL/hearing impaired seating is in Section 118 Rows 3-4. An interpreter is provided.

SEE CLEAR BAG POLICY FOR MORE GUIDELINES

Please observe the following restrictions for all Commencement Activities on the Wichita State University Campus. The following items are prohibited from entering Koch Arena:

• Drugs and alcohol
• Outside food and drink
• Weapons – firearms, knives, razorblades, pepper spray, tasers, brass knuckles, cat keys, etc.
• Noisemakers – air horns, bells, megaphones, whistles, etc.
• Balloons, poles, banners, large signs, flags, laser pointers, or incendiary devices
• Strollers, infant car seats, and/or baby carriers
• Flash/professional photography, detachable lenses, monopods, tripods
• Selfie sticks
• Live animals (except guide and service dogs)
• Large/Golf umbrellas (non-retractable)
• Seat Cushions larger than 14” x 14” x 6”
• Computers and tablets larger than 14” x 14” x 6”

Anyone attempting to take these items into the arena will be required to dispose of the item or return it to their vehicle.

All items are subject to search at the discretion of Wichita State University. All Commencement venues reserve the right to prohibit any items at the discretion of Commencement Officials.

These policies are subject to change without notice.

Commencement will be implementing a clear bag policy which will speed up the entry process into the venue, improve security and limit touch points. Clear bags allow staff to check for prohibited items without having to touch or open a bag. This will also prevent staff from having to touch personal items of guest.
 
The following outlines bags that are permitted:

• Bags that are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC and do not exceed 14" x 6" x 14";
• One-gallon clear plastic storage bags (Ziploc bag or similar); and
• Small clutch or purse, with or without a handle or strap, that do not exceed 5.5" x 7.5" (approximately the size of a hand).
• An exception will be made for medically necessary bags or equipment after proper inspection and have been tagged by security. For questions about medical equipment or other needs please contact the Athletics Operations office at 316-978-7591.

Prohibited bags include, but are not limited to:
• Purses larger than a clutch bag
• Briefcases
• Backpacks of any size
• Drawstring bags
• Fanny packs
• Luggage of any kind
• Computer bags/cases
• Camera bags/cases
• Diaper bags
• Coolers
• Duffle bags
• Binocular bags/cases or any bag larger than the permissible size
 
This policy pertains to bags and is not an all-inclusive list of items that are prohibited from being taken into the venue.

  

No outside food or drink. This includes water bottles. There are concessions available inside the arena.

Several gifts are available for purchase from vendors set up on the concourse.

The Shocker Store is located just inside the South Entrance, and across from the Ticket Office Lobby on the concourse level. It offers a variety of Shocker novelty and souvenir items from the University Bookstore. 

There is a Family Restroom, formerly referred to as the "Nursing Mother's Room." It is located across from the Champion's Club (Section 123-124).

Yes. Concessions are available at section 125/126 during Commencement.  Graduates and guests are not permitted to bring outside food or beverages into Charles Koch Arena. Cash and major credit cards are accepted. 

On Campus: Hyatt Place at Wichita State University 

City of Wichita: https://www.visitwichita.com/hotels/  

Graduates should park in lots 2W and Lot 1. Click here to view a parking map. Graduate parking at commencement is not reserved. Since there is a limited amount of parking spaces available carpooling is encouraged. As commencement occurs on a weekend, please note that a permit is not required. 

Graduates and Guests should park in lots 2W and Lot 1. Click here to view a parking map. Overflow may park in lots designated with a V for visitor. Guest parking at commencement is not reserved. Since there is a limited amount of parking spaces available carpooling is encouraged. As commencement occurs on a weekend, please note that a permit is not required. 

Special parking will be set aside for RSVPd faculty & staff. A parking map and hangtag will sent to RSVPd faculty a week prior to the ceremony.

There are a number of ADA accessible parking spaces located on the south-west side of the building. Accessible parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis in the southwest lot of Koch Arena.

Yes. We encourage it! Come to show support and encouragement to your students!

Yes. Please RSVP by the deadline. Food is available for those who RSVP.

Special parking will be set aside for faculty & staff. A parking map and hangtag will sent to RSVPd faculty a week prior to the ceremony.

Ceremonies typically last 2-2.5 hours.

Yes. Faculty wishing to process will sit on the floor. Regalia is required to walk.

Absolutely. Seating is reserved for you in Section 118, Rows 11-16. We ask that you still RSVP and check in.  

Yes, please. If you are walking, hooding, or sitting in the reserved section, we ask that you check in at the SASO room.

After checking-in, you will proceed to the gym to find and line up with your student.

Those who wish to walk must be in regalia. Regalia can be purchased/rented here.  

Those who RSVP by the deadline are welcome to food and beverage, which is available in the Champion's Club.