GRADUATION refers to actually receiving a degree once a student has been certified by the University as having met all degree requirements. Upon certification, the degree is awarded and noted in the PSU Student Information System so that it displays on PSU transcripts. Graduation certification occurs 4-6 weeks after final term grades are posted. Diplomas are printed after the degree certification process is complete. For instructions on how to apply to receive your diploma, please visit the Graduate School's Application for Awarding of Master's Degree, Doctoral Degree, or Graduate Certificate.

COMMENCEMENT is a ceremony. It is an opportunity for students, families, friends, and the PSU community to celebrate their academic accomplishments. Except for doctoral students (who must actually graduate to participate), the commencement ceremony is open to any student who has applied to graduate, notified the organizing Commencement Office that they intend to participate, purchased or rented the required regalia, and shown up at the designated time on the day of the ceremony. Participation in commencement does not mean that a student has graduated and students do not receive diplomas on that day. 

All of Portland State University's Commencement ceremonies are held in June. Please check PSU Commencement for more information.