Graduation and Commencement

Graduation and Commencement

Commencement

Candidates who complete requirements for degrees during the fall semester, spring semester, or summer session should be present for the commencement exercises at which their degrees are conferred. Candidates should submit formal application for degrees during registration for the period of enrollment in which they expect to complete their degree requirements, but not later than the last day to apply, as published in the Academic Calendar. Payment of debts to the university is a requirement for the granting of degrees and awarding of diplomas. All university holds must be cleared before a student can graduate.

Degree Audit

Degrees are awarded after the appropriate representatives from the colleges and schools have reviewed the student records and notified the Office of the Registrar that students are cleared to graduate. 

University Degree Audit (CAPP)

All MSU students have access to the degree udit system CAPP (curriculum, advising, and program planning) in myState. Learn more at https://www.registrar.msstate.edu/students/graduation/university-degree-audit-capp/.

Graduation with Honors

Students completing the requirements for baccalaureate degrees with exceptional scholastic averages and who have completed at least 60 of the total hours required for their degrees at Mississippi State University may be graduated with honors. The levels of recognition will be recorded on the students’ diplomas and permanent records.

In determining eligibility for recognition, the grade-point average will be configured on the basis of all hours attempted. If a student’s last period of enrollment raises his or her average to the level required for honors, or to a higher level of honors, this notation will be made on the diploma and transcript. The hours may include, not only residence credit, but also correspondence and extension credit to the extent permitted by the university regulations for graduation.

Transfer students must achieve the specified grade-point average in two senses: (1) on all hours attempted at all institutions attended and (2) on all hours attempted at Mississippi State University. The level of attainment will be determined by either the overall average or the Mississippi State University average, whichever is lower. The grade-point values currently in use at Mississippi State University will be used to calculate the quality-point average on all transfer credits.

The levels of recognition and the grade point averages required for each are:

  • Summa Cum Laude 3.80;
  • Magna Cum Laude 3.60;
  • Cum Laude 3.40 Q.P.A.