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Frequently Asked Questions
When do I file for Graduation? Undergraduate students must file their applications with the Registrar's Office by the following deadlines:
Please note: Undergraduate Students completing their degree requirements in August 2009, January 2010 or in May 2010 participate in the Spring Ceremony on Tuesday, May 18 at 10:30 a.m.
Only those students completing their degree requirements in May are expected to participate in Spring Commencement. Students who have not completed all their degree requirements, but are within 7 credits of completion by summer 2010 may receive written permission from the Associate Dean of the College of their major. All credits must be taken in the summer session so that all degree requirements are completed by the end of August. Students must bring this written permission to the Graduate Finale in order to collect their cap and gown, etc. or to the Bookstore after Monday, April 19, 2010.
What is the Graduate Finale and must I attend? The Graduate Finale is an opportunity to collect your cap and gown, invitations, Commencement day instructions as well as visit with representatives from the Registrar, Bursar, and Financial Aid to assure that you are ready for graduation. The offices of Career Development and Advisement, Teacher Certification, Graduate Admissions and Alumni Relations will also be on hand to provide additional information. For those interested in purchasing personalized announcements, rings and diploma covers, Jostens will be available to take your orders. This event is critical to all graduating students.
How long do I need to be at the Graduate Finale? The dates for this year's Graduate Finale are Tuesday, April 13 and Wednesday, April 14 (9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.). The activity is a walk-through event (visit a variety of tables) and most students complete the process within 20 minutes. Please make every effort to attend.
If I am unable to attend the Graduate Finale, what can I do? All students participating in the May Commencement ceremonies are encouraged to adjust their schedules and make every effort to attend one of the Graduate Finale days. This is the best opportunity to meet all the offices at one time and collect your cap, gown and additional instructions. For your convenience, it has been set up on different class days and includes evening hours. Those unable to attend this walk-through event must contact the Offices of the Registrar, Financial Aid and Bursar and clarify if any items are pending and visit the University Bookstore after Monday, April 19 to retrieve your cap, gown, additional instructions, etc.
How many tickets do I receive for the Commencement Ceremony? Since the ceremony is held on Wightman Field, no tickets are needed. Please Note: Due to the construction/renovation of the Science Building, Parking and ease of access to Wightman Field is reduced. Please use discretion when inviting guests to attend the ceremony.
Is there a charge for my cap and gown? There is no cost for your cap and gown.
Is there a rehearsal for commencement? No, there is no rehearsal. At the Graduate Finale you are provided instructions that clarify staging areas, line of march and seating arrangements. Each College has a designated staging area where faculty and staff are on hand and review the procedures for the day.
If I am receiving Teacher Certification, do I walk with my major or with the College of Education? This remains your choice. The instructions provided at the Graduate Finale will clarify the various staging areas. You can either process in with others who are graduating in your major course of study or process in with those who also have completed their certification requirements. However, you must stay with that group as you process in and will be called forward to receive your diploma covers with that particular group. It is also recommended that you advise your family which group you will be processing with during the ceremony.
What is the dress code, if any, for the ceremony? Students are encouraged to dress comfortably, but respectfully as this is an important event for all attendees including your peers and their families. You will be processing with your peers and asked to come forward and walk across the stage and receive your diploma cover as a symbol of completion. Pictures will be taken on stage.
If I am unable to attend Commencement when and how do I receive my diploma and diploma cover? Diploma covers are given as a symbol of completion at the Ceremony, but if you are unable to attend, please contact Pam Fueshko, Commencement Coordinator, at 973-720-2597 who will mail you the diploma cover. The actual diplomas are mailed after all requirements are completed and verified by the Registrar's Office.
If I am physically disabled (or a member of my family is), what shall I do? Graduate Finale: The University Commons is completely accessible. Undergraduate Ceremony: Please proceed to the Field House, Wightman Field where Campus Police are stationed to assist you.
Anyone who had his or her picture taken during the sitting dates will receive a Yearbook. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please call 1-800-OUR-YEAR (code 237) or www.ouryear.com (code 237).
How do I know if I will be receiving academic honors at graduation? Students who have earned at least 64 credits or more here at William Paterson University not including credits with pass/fail grades, and have achieved the following cumulative grade point average will receive Graduation Latin Honors:
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Ceremony
