Details for Spring Commencement

Are you graduating or planning to attend NOVA's Spring Commencement? If so, here are a few details to help you plan for a meaningful and memorable day: 

Who can participate in the Spring Commencement?
Students who have completed programs during the Summer 2009 semester, Fall 2009 semester, and students who anticipate completing their studies during the Spring 2010 can participate. Students who will complete their programs during the Summer 2010 term are eligible to participate in Spring 2011 Commencement.

When and where will Commencement be held?
Commencement will be held at 2 p.m. on May 16, 2010 at George Mason University's Patriot Center (Fairfax, VA). Participants and guests should plan to arrive two hours ahead of time to park and be seated. Seating will be on a first-come, first-available basis. Tickets are not needed. Doors close at 2:15 p.m.!

When will my degree/certificate be awarded? 
Final grades must be posted before degree/certificates are awarded. Degree/certificate awarding will begin the last day of class, May 10 and should be completed by July 15. 

When will I receive my diploma?
If you've met all graduation requirements for Spring semester graduation, your diploma/certificate will be mailed to the address listed on your graduation application by July 15. Diploma covers will be issued to all students who participate in Commencement. If you don't attend, you may obtain a diploma cover from a campus Student Services Center.

Where and when do I purchase regalia?
Regalia (cap & gown), class rings and invitations can be purchased from any NOVA campus bookstore. Check your local campus bookstore for hours. Also, limited supplies of regalia will be available for purchase beginning at 12:30 on the day of Commencement in the parking lot of the Patriot Center (South Entrance).

Visit the Commencement website for complete details about the event. If you plan to attend, be sure to print out the Commencement flyer and bring it with you on May 16 to assist you in finding where to park and meet prior to the processional. If you can't participate in Commencement, or your loved ones can't travel to be there, you can still attend and celebrate virtually. A live broadcast will be available on local cable channels and a telecast will be streamed from NOVA's TV Center website.

To our ELI graduates: Congratulations on achieving this milestone. We truly applaud your success and wish you all the best in your future endeavors!