Commencement Frequently Asked Questions
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Do graduates need to RSVP for commencement?
No. A seat will be reserved for every student approved to graduate. Seat numbers will be posted online the week before commencement. -
If I do not attend the ceremony in person will my name be announced?
No. Only the names of those graduates present at each ceremony will be announced from the stage. -
Where can I order graduation announcements?
Official ETSU graduation announcements can be ordered online at www.balfour.com/etsu -
Do I need tickets for my family and friends to attend commencement?
No. Guest tickets will not be required for the ceremony and there is no limit on the number of guests per graduate. -
Will there be flowers or gifts for sale at commencement?
There will be an opportunity to buy flowers and other gifts at each commencement ceremony. Proceeds of this fundraiser will go to the Preview and Orientation Leader Organization (POLO), Alpha Lambda Sigma (Adult Student Honor Society), and Tao Sigma (Transfer Student Honor Society). Families and supporters have the option to purchase at the door or pre-order through this link. Pre-orders can be picked up and day-of event purchases can be made at tables located on either entrance to the Ballad Health Athletic Center (Mini Dome). -
Do the Colleges of Pharmacy and Medicine have separate graduation ceremonies?
Yes. Please click here for information about the Quillen College of Medicine graduation ceremony and please click here for the Gatton College of Pharmacy's Hooding & PharmD graduation ceremony. -
Are the ceremonies live streamed?
Yes. The ceremonies are live streamed and a video will be posted on the website following the event. Both the live stream and recorded video will be available on the main commencement webpage etsu.edu/commencement. -
What is the proper way to wear my cap and gown?
For more information on how to wear your regalia please click here -
Where can I find information about getting my cap and gown?
For information about ordering regalia, please click here. -
Will I receive any stoles/cords to wear with my regalia?
The Graduation Office only manages the cap, tassel, gown, hood (for graduate students), and honors medallions (for undergraduate students).
Some departments/organizations distribute stoles or cords to students, they should reach out to you directly if you have one. If you believe they have one or have additional questions, please reach out to your department/organization.
If you are interested in purchasing additional regalia (stoles/cords) through Jostens, you may do so by placing your order through their website and contact them directly with any questions. Email graduation@etsu.edu if you have additional questions.
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Will there be a professional photographer at commencement?
Island Photography will be taking pictures of each graduate. Island Photography typically sends picture proofs to the student’s email. If you have additional questions, please contact Island Photography directly. www.islandphoto.com -
Will I receive my diploma at commencement?
Diplomas are not distributed at the ceremony. Final grades are not due until the week following commencement. End of term processes and GPA calculations are completed at that time followed by the conferral process. For diploma mailing dates please click here.
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Will Master's candidates be hooded on stage at Commencement?
No. Master’s candidates wear their hood for the ceremony. For more information about how to wear your Master's hood please click here
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If I am graduating with a double major which college do I join?
Graduates with a double major are welcome to choose which college they would like to cross the stage with.