Preparing for Graduation
Declare your intent to graduate:
Verify the accuracy of your academic record in LionPATH.
Once you apply for graduation, academic records can no longer be updated. It is critical to add minor plans that have been completed but are not showing on your student record and to remove minor plans that are no longer being completed from your student record.
How to Update Academics in LionPATHApply for Graduation in LionPATH.
Notify the University of your intent to graduate at the beginning of the semester in which you will meet degree requirements and plan to graduate. Refer to the Intent to Graduate-Activation Period of the University’s Academic Calendar to determine the dates when you can apply for graduation.
How to Apply for Graduation in LionPATHTake the IST Post-Graduation Survey.
Close to graduation, you will receive a request to take the Post-Graduation Survey from the College of IST. Every IST student should complete the survey prior to graduation, preferably after they have accepted an offer of employment or entrance to graduate school.
What's the difference between graduation and commencement?
- Graduation is when you officially earn your degree. To graduate, you need to complete all your academic requirements and apply for graduation in LionPATH. Once everything’s approved, your degree will be conferred (officially awarded), and your diploma will be mailed to you.
- Commencement is the celebration. It’s the cap-and-gown ceremony where your name is read, you walk across the stage, and your friends and family cheer you on.
Here’s the key thing to know:
🎓 You can graduate without attending commencement.
🎉 You may be able to attend commencement even if your degree isn’t conferred yet (like if you’re finishing classes over the summer).
Commencement
Commencement ceremonies at Penn State vary slightly depending on your degree level. Undergraduate ceremonies are typically larger and grouped by college, while graduate ceremonies are more formal and personalized.
Questions? Contact us.
