Frequently asked questions

• What is the difference between graduation and commencement?

  Graduation is completing your degree requirements and earning your diploma; commencement is the celebration of graduation. Attending commencement is not required — but we encourage you to celebrate this milestone!

  Walking in commencement does not mean that you have completed your degree requirements or that you will receive your diploma. Please verify with both your major advisor in your department and/or your general academic advisor to be certain you have completed all your degree requirements.

  For additional information, please visit the Office of the Registrar.

• How do I check my academic status?

  Review your STARS degree audit in Academica, and contact your academic advisor if you are unsure whether all of your requirements have been met or if you have any questions.

• Who do I contact if I have questions regarding my degree application or my diploma?

  For questions regarding degree applications or diploma status, contact your advisor of the Office of the Registrar at graduation@wayne.edu.

  For questions concerning academic status, contact your advisor in your college or school. The Office of University Commencement does not have access to your records.

• Who may participate in the May 2023 commencement ceremonies?

  Students who will complete their degree requirements during the winter 2023 semester and complete the online degree application by Feb. 10 will be invited to attend the May 2023 commencement ceremony.

  Students who will complete their degree requirements in the spring/summer 2023 term and complete the online degree application by March 10 will be invited to attend the May 2023 commencement ceremony.

  Please be sure to apply for the term in which you will be completing your degree requirements. If you have any questions, contact your academic advisor or the Office of the Registrar.

• How can I purchase a diploma frame, order announcements or buy a class ring?

  Diploma frames may be purchased at the WSU Bookstore. Announcements and class rings may be ordered from Balfour, the official university vendor. Please visit balfour.com/wayne for additional information.

• Can I purchase a commemorative commencement T-shirt listing the names of graduates on the back?

  You can purchase a commemorative T-shirt listing graduates' names. The Commencement Group strongly encourages everyone to take advantage of its online preorder service. The Commencement Group will be at the Wayne State Fieldhouse on commencement days and will have a contact-free customer experience for those who are picking up their pre-purchased and reserved product.

• Can I still order my graduation cap and gown and other regalia?

  For questions regarding caps and gowns, announcements, rings, or diploma frames, please contact the WSU Bookstore at 313-577-2436.

• Will the commencement ceremonies be livestreamed?

  Yes, the ceremonies will be livestreamed at commencement.wayne.edu.

• Is there free parking for graduation?

  Yes, parking is complimentary in Lot 50 or Structure 2.

• I have a high GPA. Should I wear something to designate this accomplishment at commencement?

  Students with high GPAs in their major department do not wear special regalia (e.g., cords or stoles) at commencement. This is called "graduation with distinction," and it is bestowed upon undergraduate students who graduate in the top 20% of their college based on GPA. Your accomplishment is noted on your transcript — as summa cum laude, magna cum laude or cum laude — and in the commencement program booklet. For more information, please refer to the Board of Governors statute 2.43.61.

  You also can contact your academic department through your major advisor for additional information. 

• What if I have a question that is not addressed here?

  Please check your WSU email for correspondence and messages from the Office of University Commencement. For questions regarding the commencement ceremonies, please call the Commencement Office at 313-577-0300 or email commencement@wayne.edu.