Student Preparation
To participate in Commencement, you must complete several tasks and meet certain deadlines.
- Apply for graduation by the first day of the semester in which you want to participate in Commencement. For example, if you are planning to participate in Commencement at the end of the spring semester, you must apply for graduation by the first day of the spring semester.
You must apply for graduation through CougarNet. Please note that graduation and Commencement are not the same. Graduation is the completion of degree requirements as determined by the Office of the Registrar. Commencement is a celebratory ceremony. Participation in Commencement does not necessarily mean your degree requirements have been met.
- RSVP for Commencement and order regalia. To participate in Commencement, you must RSVP for the ceremony by the published deadline. Students who do not meet the deadline will not be guaranteed participation in the ceremony. Individual exceptions may be made.
- Pick up your regalia in the University Bookstore. Please pick up your regalia as early as possible. After you have received your order, please make sure you have everything you need. If there is a problem with your order, contact the University Bookstore at bookstore@siue.edu or by calling (618) 650-2132. Regalia should be picked up no later than one week before the ceremony.
Students who are eligible for graduation will receive updates and instructions from the Commencement staff. All communication will be sent to SIUE email accounts.
For questions, please contact us at commencement@siue.edu or by calling (618) 650‑2252.
