Q: How did you decide to have undergraduate Commencement ceremonies on both Friday, May 7 and Saturday, May 8?
A: We received lots of feedback from our Fall 2020 graduates about how much they loved the celebration at the end of each ceremony. We also learned that our Graduate Ceremony, which finished after dark, provided an even better view of the celebration. That's why we decided to have both of our undergraduate ceremonies in May 2021 in the evening. We think our graduates will love the celebration and the view. 

Q: How do I get recognized for Graduation if I am not participating in person?
A: You will be able to view the Live Ceremony, but you will not hear your name called. You can view your commemorative slide when the link becomes available day of. That is where you will hear your name recording, a personal message from you, and a photo! You can also request a Commencement program that will have your name in it. 

Q: How does accessibility seating work?
A: All Accessible seating will be clearly marked and is located on the bottom row and top row of the “home” or south side of Bazemore-Hyder Stadium.  The top row is accessible via an elevator. One family member may sit with a guest in the reserved accessible seating areas. Anyone with an accessible placard or license plate may park in the parking lot directly next to Bazemore-Hyder Stadium off of Williams Street. Anyone dropping off a guest in need of accessibility seating may drop off in the Williams Street lot directly next to Bazemore-Hyder Stadium. All gates will be open for entry and exit 1 and ½ hours before the ceremony start time.

Q: Am I required to wear a mask?
A: Following the Governor's Executive Order and new guidance from the University System of Georgia on May 3, 2021, masks are strongly encouraged for Spring 2021 Commencement. 

Q: When do graduates and guests need to arrive?
A: Graduates can check in starting one hour before the ceremony. Gates open 1 and 1/2 hours before each ceremomy for guests to begin entering the stadium.

 

Q: How and when do I apply for graduation?
A: Spring graduates need to apply as soon as possible by clicking this link to the Registrar’s page. https://www.valdosta.edu/academics/registrar/forms/


Q: Why do I need to apply for graduation?
A: Applying for graduation is required in order to participate in the commencement ceremony and to receive your degree requirements have been met. The Registrar’s Office evaluates all credits completed to ensure that all requirements have been met for your degree program. 


Q: How much is the graduation application fee?
A: $25 


Q: What form of payment do you accept for the application fee?
A: Credit and debit card online or you can pay with cash or check in the Bursary. 


Q: Do you have to pay the application fee when you submit the application?
A: No, but it is highly recommended to avoid delays in receiving your degree. Your diploma will not be mailed until fee payment is made. 


Q: Where do I go to buy a cap and gown and what is the deadline for that?
A: You can order your cap and gown at the VSU Bookstore during normal business hours. There will also be an online option as well, and that information will be available as soon as possible. The deadline to order your cap and gown online is April 1. 


Q: Will I receive my diploma at the ceremony?
A: No, you will receive your diploma cover. Your diploma will be mailed to you in a few weeks.


Q: Will my major be reflected on my diploma?
A: Yes, degree and major where applicable.


Q: What do I wear?
A: Dark pants, skirts, shoes, and tie are preferred. Flip flops and tennis shoes are not appropriate graduation attire. Because of the grass/field, please do not wear high heels to the commencement ceremony. 


Q: Do I have need to have tickets for my family and friends? 
A: No, following Governor Kemp's most recent executive order, tickets are no longer required and Spring 2021 Commencement is now a general admission event. 


Q: How many people can I bring to graduation?
A: Graduates can now bring as many guests as they like. 


Q: Where is my child going to be seated?
A: We, unfortunately, have no way of knowing where your child will be sitting. Graduates are not seated in alphabetical order.  To avoid confusion, we suggest you decide on a meeting place for you and your graduate after the ceremony.


Q: Will every student walk across the stage?
A: Yes, every student will walk across the stage and be recognized at all of our ceremonies.


Q: How long will the ceremony last?
A: The Graduate School and Undergraduate ceremonies will last between an hour and an hour and a half. 


Q: Is there security at the ceremony?
A: Yes, both University Police and Security Personnel will be located at each ceremony.


Q: Is there ambulance service at the ceremonies?
A: Yes, ambulance service with emergency personnel will be located at each ceremony.


Q: For the guests who could not be here, is there a way for them to view the ceremony?
A: Friends and family members who are not able to attend are encouraged to view the ceremonies online via our live webcast the day of the ceremony. We will also actively post to social media using #VStateGrad, including behinds the scenes live video via Periscope and Snapchat (@ValdostaState). 


Q: How do I get any other commencement-related questions answered?
A: You can email commencement@valdosta.edu