Frequently Asked Questions
How do I sign up to participate in the Commencement ceremony?
You must complete a ceremony sign-up form by April 14, 2023 in order to participate in the ceremony, even if you already have a cap and gown. You must also have submitted a graduation application. Please see the commencement homepage to complete the graduation application and the ceremony sign-up form.
Do I have to participate in the ceremony in order to receive my diploma?
No, while we encourage graduates to participate in the Ceremony, it is not required. Whether you participate or not you will receive your diploma via mail 8 weeks after grades have been posted for the term in which you completed.
When will the Commencement Ceremony take place?
Thursday, June 15, 2023, 6:30pm (graduates should arrive between 5-5:30 p.m.).
Is there a rehearsal? Is the rehearsal Mandatory?
There will be a rehearsal held at Clark College in Gaiser Student Center, Tuesday, June 13 from 5:30-6:30pm. If you are unable to attend we will also hold a session via Zoom, Wednesday, June 14 at 1:00PM, a Zoom link will be sent the week prior to the email you used to apply for graduation.
I want to participate but didn't turn in my application or sign-up to participate in the ceremony by April 14, can I still participate?
Yes, you must still complete your graduation application, and ceremony sign-up form and submit payment for your cap and gown by June 2. We do order extra cap and gowns, we cannot guarantee we will be able to fullfill the size requested on late orders but we will do our best.
I ordered a cap and gown but no longer want to participate, can I get a refund on my cap and gown?
There are no refunds for cap and gowns.
What are the Protocols for COVID-19
I didn't get Honors cords in my packet.
Honors status is degree specific and based on GPA (3.40 cumulative or College level) at the end of Winter Term. Please contact Credential Evaluations if you have questions (credeval@clark.edu or 360.992.2805).
How is Honors status determined?
Those students participating in June ceremonies will receive recognition at the celebration based on the cumulative GPA on record at the end of winter term. If honor status changes once final grades are processed, adjustments will be made to the student record.
Eligibility requirements are listed below. In order for your honors designation to be listed in the program you must apply for Commencement by April 14, 2023.
Bachelor of Applied Science
Applied Management - Honors status is determined by Program/College GPA
Cyber Security - Honors status is determined by College GPA
Dental Hygiene - Honors status is determined by College GPA
Human Services - Honors status is determined by College GPA
3.40-3.89 = With Honors (Crimson tassel and cord)
3.90 or higher = With High Honors (Gold tassel and cord)
Associate in Arts - Associate in Fine Arts - Associate in Science Transfer - Direct Transfer Agreement - Major Ready Pathways (DTA-MRP) Degrees
Honors status is determined by: College GPA
3.40-3.89 = With Honors (Crimson tassel and cord)
3.90 or higher = With High Honors (Gold tassel and cord)
Associate in Applied Science – Associate in Applied Technology Degrees
Honors status is determined by: Cumulative GPA
3.40-3.89 = With Honors (Crimson tassel and cords)
3.90 or higher = With High Honors (Gold tassel and cords)
Certificates of Proficiency
Merit status is determined by: Cumulative GPA
3.40 or higher = With Merit (silver tassel)
Certificates of Achievement, Certificates of Completion and High School Diplomas
Are not eligible for honors designation
I am a veteran and would like specialty cords.
Please note your veterans status on your ceremony sign-up form, if you've already submitted your form please contact the Bookstore to receive your cords.
I am a part of Phi Theta Kappa and would like a stole.
Please contact the Phi Theta Kappa Advisor.
I would like to request a specialty stole from the Office of Diversity and Equity.
Please note the type of stole you are requesting on your ceremony sign-up form. If you have already turned your ceremony sign-up form please contact the Bookstore to inquire about the availabilty of extra stoles.
I would like to request a student with disability stole from the Office of Disability Support.
Please note the type of stole you are requesting on your ceremony sign-up form. If you have already turned your ceremony sign-up form please contact the Bookstore to inquire about the availabilty of extra stoles.
Will my diploma be awarded at the ceremony?
No, diplomas will be mailed to all graduates 8 weeks after grades have been posted for the term in which they completed their degree.
Do my family and friends need tickets to attend Commencement?
No, seating is first come first serve. Guests needing seating accommodation may not be able to sit with their entire party to ensure we have enough ADA seating for all guests.
How long does Commencement last?
The ceremony will last approximately 2 hours, it should end at approximately 8:30 p.m. Please plan to stay for the entirety of the event.