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Graduation & Commencement

Graduation & Commencement

1. Apply for Graduation

All graduating students must apply for graduation to receive a diploma, even if they do not plan to participate in the commencement ceremony.

Application Deadlines

  • Fall Graduation: September 1 – October 31
  • Spring Graduation: November 1 – February 28
  • Summer Graduation: July 1 – July 31

How to Apply

  1. Log in to myMGCC and select the SIS (Student Information System) tile.

  2. Select Academic Records & Progress, then Apply for Graduation.

  3. Verify your name and address. Your diploma will be printed with the exact name and mailed to the address on file. (To update your name, contact Student Services at 540-863-2820. To update your address, select "Update Address".)

  4. Confirm details and submit your application.

Questions about graduation? Contact Phyllis Bartley at (540) 863-2823 or pbartley@mgcc.edu.

2. Commencement Ceremony Details

MGCC holds one Commencement ceremony each spring. Graduates from the previous fall semester are welcome to participate.

  • Commencement Ceremony: Friday, May 8, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. | MGCC Convocation Center (Livestream Link)
  • Nursing Pinning Ceremony: Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. | MGCC Convocation Center (Livestream Link)
  • Graduation Picnic: Friday, May 1, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. | Clifton Forge Campus Quad (RSVP Here)

3. Commencement Checklist

Follow these steps if you plan to walk in the ceremony:

  1. Review Degree Requirements: Check your Advisement Report in SIS (Academic Records & Progress, then My Academic Requirements) and confirm remaining credits with your advisor. ​​​​​​​
    • Note: Students missing spring credits may participate if enrolled in the required summer coursework at least one week prior to the ceremony.

  2. Apply to Graduate: Complete the online application by the deadline above.

  3. Order Regalia: Purchase your cap and gown by March 1, 2026 ($19 fee, delivered to MGCC). Approved regalia is required to participate. (Phi Theta Kappa members: contact your advisor for PTK regalia details.)

  4. Complete the Exit Survey: Submit the mandatory Graduate Exit Survey.

  5. Attend Rehearsal: Attendance at rehearsal on May 1 at 1:00 p.m. is required to walk in the ceremony.

  6. Attend Commencement: Tickets are not required for guests.

4. Day-of-Ceremony Instructions

  • Arrival: Arrive at the Moomaw Center by 5:30 p.m. (60 minutes prior to start) to check in, receive your name card, and line up. Hand all personal belongings to guests before lining up.
  • Announcer Card: Keep the card received at check-in with you to hand to the announcer when walking across the stage.
  • Attire: Business casual attire under your gown is recommended. Wear your tassel on the right front of your cap.
  • Parking: Accessible/handicapped parking is available at the Convocation Center. Ask staff at the door if extra assistance is needed.
  • Etiquette: Turn off mobile devices and remain seated for the entire ceremony.
  • Reception: Join us in the Moomaw Center immediately following the ceremony for refreshments.

5. Diplomas & Degree Conferral

  • Processing Timeline: End-of-term processing takes 2–3 weeks after graduation. Your degree will not appear on official transcripts until processing is complete.
  • Digital & Physical Diplomas: Once degrees are conferred, an electronic credential will be sent to your VCCS email. Your physical diploma will arrive by mail 4–6 weeks later.
  • Transcripts: Order official transcripts through the MGCC Transcripts & Records Page via Parchment after receiving your digital credential notification.