Academic Catalog 2024-25 > Academic Policies and Procedures > Candidacy, Degree Conferral and Commencement > Degree Candidacy

Degree Candidacy

Following the Spring semester of each academic year, the Registrar evaluates degree progress and notifies students who are likely to complete the final coursework required for the degree (advance to candidacy) during the following academic year. This evaluation is based on the student’s degree progress to date, as reflected in the Academic Plan available via Self-Service.

In order to advance to candidacy, undergraduate students must have satisfied the international language matriculation requirement and must have completed the CORE English sequence and the CORE Math requirement.

To declare their candidacy, and thus be eligible for degree conferral and participation in Commencement, students must file an Application for Degree form in the Registrar’s Office, with the approval of their academic advisor(s). The deadline to file the graduation application falls at the end of Priority Registration week each semester: in April for December conferrals and in November for May and August conferrals. Please see the Academic Calendar for the exact deadlines. Failure to apply for the degree prior to the deadline may result in delayed graduation and financial penalty.

Degree applications remain valid for one calendar year after filing. Any delay in the completion of degree requirements beyond one year after the initial intended term of graduation may require a new application, and fees may apply.