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Graduation Dates and Application Process

Columbia College Commencement
Check out the commencement page for more information and photos from the previous commencement.
Commencement

Important Dates for Graduation

Fall 2025

Application period to apply to graduate: July 28- November 7

Degree/Certificate posted to transcript: February 15

Degree/Certificate mailed to student by: March 1

Spring 2026

Application period to apply to graduate: November 17 - April 3 

Degree/Certificate posted to transcript: June 15

Degree/Certificate mailed to student by: July 1

Summer 2026

Application period to apply to graduate: November 17 - July 10 (must apply by April 3 to participate in commencement)

Degree/Certificate posted to transcript: October 15

Degree/Certificate mailed to student by: October 31

Graduation Application Information

Columbia College students must apply to graduate to earn an associates degree or certificate of achievement. This process is overseen by the Admissions & Records Evaluator. An approved degree plan is required as a part of the Graduation Application, please be sure you have met with an Academic Counselor for your approved degree plan, visit the Counseling website to connect today. All communication about the graduation application process will be sent to your student email. 

Graduation Application Steps

1.      Submit the application(s) – Apply for Associates Degree and/or Apply for Certificate of Achievement

2.      After submission your application(s) will be reviewed by the Admissions & Records Evaluator (6-8 weeks after you submit).

3.      After final review, all communication will be sent to your student e-mail account. This may include being ineligible for your award, or if you are eligible, you'll receive notification of approval.

To check the status of your submitted graduation application, go to your Etrieve Activity.  Find the completed application in the list and then click on the "History" button at the bottom of the form. For questions about eligibility, please reach out to your counselor. For questions about the application or application process, please reach out to Admissions & Records. 

Celebrate your accomplishments and sign up to participate in the Commencement Ceremony, find out more here!

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