When entering their final semester, candidates who anticipate a faculty recommendation for conferral of the degree are required to follow the procedures listed below:

1. Ensure that all academic requirements are being completed. If a student is unable to do so by the deadline date, both forms listed below must be refiled for a later-dated diploma.

2. Ensure that related fees and any outstanding debts to the university are paid.

3. Submit the completed candidacy application form by the announced deadline, normally in early January, May, or October.

4. Submit a diploma application form by the announced deadline, normally January 2, March 15, or October 1.

If this form is filed after the deadline, the degree cannot be conferred as scheduled, and graduation will be delayed. Students must refile this form if the deadline has passed. All forms are available from the Office of the Dean of the Graduate School. Students are urged to submit the appropriate forms in advance of the deadlines, if possible. It is the responsibility of the student to complete all requirements for graduation by the scheduled dates. All students should consult with the graduate director of their programs and with the Office of the Dean of the Graduate School about completing the requirements for graduation.

Conferral of degrees and diplomas occurs once a year at the annual spring commencement. However, students who file the applications and complete all other requirements for the degree by the announced October or January dates will get a diploma dated for the respective month, although they will not receive it until the following spring. Students may request a temporary certificate of completion by submitting a written request to the university registrar (Administrative Services Building, Busch Campus). This request form may be obtained at the dean's office. At the time of commencement, degrees may be conferred in absentia only if the prospective candidate has notified the university registrar that he or she cannot attend the commencement exercises.

The diploma will be withheld from any student who has a financial obligation to the university.