Graduation and Commencement May 2023

If you plan to graduate in May 2023, you are required to complete a Graduation Application no later than March 1. No exceptions. Graduation Applications for undergraduates are available in the Registrar’s Office or you may apply online.

There will be two separate programs  for May 2023 Commencement. The first one will be held on Friday May 5, 2023 at 7:30 p.m. and the second one will be on Saturday May 6, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. 

 

Commencement Exercises

Graduating seniors should arrive at the Smith University Center at 6:30 p.m. for commencement on Friday or 9:00 a.m. for commencement on Saturday. You will receive information about which commencement you are to attend towards the end of the semester. When you arrive, report to the Registrar’s table to check-in immediately.

Stay Informed

Throughout the semester, the Registrar’s Office will send you graduation and commencement information via your FMU email address. Check your FMU email address regularly to stay informed.

Graduation and Commencement FAQs

The Registrar or the department of your major will notify you if you fail to meet graduation requirements. No matter who informs you, you will know that you are not graduating before commencement rehearsal.

Graduating seniors’ grades are posted to students’ Patriot Portal accounts after 12:00 noon on Thursday after exams end.

The Registrar’s Office will mail your diploma to you the week after the commencement ceremony.

You will buy your regalia for commencement at the Patriot Bookstore. Contact the bookstore if you have questions about ordering or paying for your regalia. The bookstore can be reached at 843-661-1345.

Men should wear dark trousers and shoes under their robes. Women are encouraged to wear dark clothes and shoes as well. It is also wise to wear shoes you can walk in without fear of falling on the stage.

The Registrar’s Office will send you an email the week before commencement that will include instructions for wearing your cap, gown, and hood. Check your FMU email.

Your tickets will be available for pick-up in the Office of the Vice President for Student Life, Smith University Center, Suite 205. The exact dates and times of when the tickets will be available will be published at a later date.

You will receive an email with information about the number of tickets you will receive. Check your FMU email.

Please Note: A photo ID is required to pick up tickets.