Getting Ready to Graduate
Step 1
Request a senior audit
What is a senior audit?
The audit is important for a number of reasons. First, it acts as your graduation application and tells us that you are planning to graduate so that we can add your to our list. For this reason, if you don't fill out the audit paperwork, you can't graduate. Second, when you request a Senior audit, we actually go through your file and "audit" everything to make sure there are no mistakes, that your gpa is correct, and we send you a letter letting you know what final requirements you still need to complete. To request your audit, visit Undergraduate Student Services in Koelbel 115.
When should I request a senior audit?
We accept audits approximately 2 semesters prior to graduation. Currently we are accepting audits for students graduating in:
When I get the results of my audit in the mail, what should I do?
First, check it carefully to make sure you agree with everything on it and that you are registered for the right courses to finish your degree. If you find a mistake, see an advisor right away. You need to sign a copy of the audit and mail it back to us in the postage-paid envelope provided.
Step 2
Check to make sure your name is on the graduation list
A list of the students* who have applied for graduation will be posted in the Undergraduate Advising office several months before graduation (October for December graduates and March for May and August graduates). You should check to make sure your name is on this list, that it's spelled right, and that your area of emphasis is correct, and that any applicable minors or double degrees are also listed.
* Please note: if you have had your student record marked "private," your name will not appear on this list or in the ceremony programs. This doesn't mean you aren't graduating.
Step 3
Complete your Final Requirements
Your degree audit tells you what you have left to complete, so make sure you are in all the right requirements to complete your degree and that you get the necessary grades. Remember that if you are doing Cont. Education, all coursework and exams need to be completed by April 15th for May graduation, July 15th for August graduation, and November 15th for December graduation to guarantee that your graduation will occur as scheduled. In addition, if you have transfer credit coming, transcripts need to arrive at CU for processing by these dates to ensure that they will be processed in time for graduation. If your plans change or you won't complete a requirement in time, see an advisor about changing your graduation date.
Step 4
Prepare for the Graduation Ceremonies
There are two separate ceremonies: the CU Commencement Ceremony and the Leeds Recognition Ceremony. You may choose to attend both, just one, or neither. Participation in graduation activities is not required.
My ceremony checklist:
Buy cap and gown at the CU bookstore.
Invite family and friends (For the December Leeds Recognition ceremony, seats are limited and you will need to pick up tickets. The May Recognition ceremony is open seating and you can invite as many people as you'd like).
Visit the Leeds Graduation Event Page for information about the Leeds Recognition Ceremony:
Approximately one week before the Ceremony, pick up honors medal at Undergrad office if applicable.
Attend the ceremonies...make sure you arrive on time and check-in when you arrive.
Approximately 6 weeks after graduation, your transcript will show receipt of degree. Approximately 10 weeks after graduation, you may pick up your diploma. Diplomas not picked up will be mailed to the graduate's permanent address (so make sure the University has a good address for you).
Click here to visit the Graduation event page, with information about times, locations, parking, and everything else you and your family need to know!