Morning All,

We have noticed that several students are applying to graduate for the Fall commencement ceremony even though they will not complete their degree requirements during the Fall term. Please remind students that if they will not complete all degree requirements during the term for which they are applying to graduate, they should not submit a graduation application solely to participate in commencement. Instead, they must submit a Petition to Participate in Commencement. Petitions must be based on an unforeseen circumstance, and approval is not guaranteed. Information can be found here on this site: https://onestop.utsa.edu/graduation/commencement/ 

Additionally, students should be aware that submitting a graduation application triggers the assessment of a graduation fee. The University provides only one graduation fee waiver. If a student submits multiple graduation applications that are later denied or withdrawn, they may be charged with the graduation fee again when they reapply.

As a reminder, students who wish to participate in commencement before completing their degree requirements must submit a petition rather than a graduation application. They must also have a graduation application on file for the term in which they expect to complete all degree requirements.

Example: A student planning to graduate in the Spring term who wishes to participate in the Fall commencement ceremony must submit a Petition to Participate in Fall Commencement while maintaining a Spring graduation application on file. Likewise, a student planning to graduate in the Fall term who wishes to participate in the Spring commencement ceremony must submit a petition for Spring commencement and maintain a Fall graduation application.

Thank you for your assistance in helping students understand these requirements and avoid unnecessary fees or application issues. Please let Brenda or I know if you have any questions. 

Kari Doring, Ph.D.
Assistant Registrar

Registrar Office
The University of Texas at San Antonio
One UTSA Circle
San Antonio, TX 78249
kari.doring@utsa.edu