An overview of a formal commencement ceremony or academic convocation inside a large hall
WSU Vancouver

Commencement

Celebrate Your Achievement at Commencement

Commencement serves as the definitive celebration of your academic journey at WSU Vancouver. This milestone event brings together the campus community to honor the dedication and perseverance of the graduating class. Whether you are completing an undergraduate, master’s, or doctoral program, the ceremony provides a formal stage to recognize your hard work alongside family, friends, and faculty.

Participation in the ceremony at WSU Vancouver is open to students from any campus who have applied for or received their degrees. To ensure a seamless experience, graduates must complete several essential steps, including applying for graduation through the university system and registering for the commencement event itself. From walking across the stage to hearing the fight song, every detail is designed to commemorate your transition from student to alumnus.

Questions?

Email: van.registrar@wsu.edu
Phone: 360-546-9565

Steps to Participate in Commencement

1. Apply to Graduate Submit a degree application to confirm all academic requirements are met. This process is handled through the university student portal and is a separate requirement from registering for the event.

2. Register for the Ceremony Complete the official registration form to secure your place in the processional. Registration ensures your name is included in event materials and helpful updates reach you before the ceremony.

3. Order Your Regalia Traditional caps and gowns are required for all in-person ceremonies. Orders are placed through the university’s authorized vendor. Ensure you follow all deadlines for shipping or on-campus pickup.

Three graduates in black gowns and caps smiling at a graduation ceremony
A student in a graduation cap and gown sitting smiling in a green field
Regalia and Attire

Regalia Guidelines and Attire

  • Undergraduate Candidates: Wear a black cap and gown with the university yoke. Tassels begin on the right side and move to the left during the ceremony.
  • Master’s Candidates: Arrive wearing your academic hood. Tassels are worn on the left side.
  • Doctoral Candidates: Carry your academic hood over one arm during the processional; you will be hooded on stage as part of the ceremony.
  • Honor Cords: Eligible undergraduate students with a GPA of 3.5 or higher receive crimson and silver cords. These are distributed during rehearsal and on the day of the event.

Commencement Frequently Asked Questions

Find everything you need to prepare for your big day, from preserving your legacy on campus to capturing the perfect photo of your achievement. Explore our frequently asked questions below for details on eligibility, ceremony logistics, and more.

Graduation refers to the completion of your academic requirements and the formal awarding of your degree. Commencement is a celebratory ceremony held in May to recognize and honor students completing academic programs.

If you graduated in December 2024, you are eligible to participate. If you are graduating in May 2025, you must apply by March 7 to be included in the program and ceremony. Summer graduates: If you are graduating in July 2025, apply to graduate by March 7 to be included in the ceremony.

Yes. GradImages will take professional photos during the ceremony at three points: before you walk across the stage, as you receive your diploma cover, and at the bottom of the ramp before returning to your seat.

Yes. Watch the livestream online to share the moment with friends and family who cannot attend in person.

No. Graduates and guests must arrange their own transportation and parking for the event.

The ceremony itself lasts about two hours. Expect additional time for arrival, check-in, and exiting the parking area after the event.

The ceremony takes place inside the covered section of the Cascades Amphitheater. However, line-up and greeting areas are outdoors, so please prepare for the weather.

No. Degrees are conferred after final grades are posted and requirements verified. Your diploma will be mailed to the address listed in myWSU a few weeks after the term ends.

The ceremony follows a structured order, including the processional, speeches, the awarding of degrees and the recessional. Marshals will direct graduates throughout the event.