Graduation
Criteria & Package
A student is awarded a diploma when they:
- Complete prescribed curriculum.
- Complete internship requirement, if applicable.
- Complete all required coursework with a cumulative G.P.A. of 2.0 at the undergraduate level and 3.0 at the graduate level.
- Apply for graduation and meet all academic and financial requirements.
- F-1 students must maintain lawful status.
Graduation package:
- Diploma
- Padded diploma cover
- Transcripts
Allow 4-6 weeks after the end of session to receive your Graduation Package; international students please allow up to 8 weeks.
Graduation Petitioning
The graduation petition is for all students who intend to graduate in the upcoming session and officially request the Office of the Registrar to evaluate their eligibility. All students seeking graduation must submit the Graduation Petition and Evaluation Form.
All the graduation dates are fixed. There are six (6) graduation dates:
Mar 15, May 15, Jul 15, Sep 15, Nov 15, Jan 15.
Each graduation date has a corresponding deadline. Please refer to the Academic Calendar for deadlines. Graduation petitions are due by 11:59 PM (PST).
E.g.: if a student wishes to graduate at the end of Summer Session 1 (June 28), go to the Academic Calendar and look for the Graduation Petition Deadline found under Summer Session 1.
Graduation Photo Session
IAU is happy to see you achieve your goal, but we hate to see you go! Chasing a dream requires a lot of effort and passion. IAU wants to thank you for the hard work and trust! Celebrate your personal milestone with a formal Graduation Portrait that students and their family can treasure always. IAU is now offering graduate students the opportunity to capture their moment of accomplishment in the form of professional photography!
Graduation Portrait Package
- 15 minute photo headshot session.
- Cap + Gown will be provided at the time of the photoshoot.
- All photos will be provided electronically.
Book a Sitting
- Make a $35 payment for the Graduation Portrait.
- Complete the Graduation Portrait Session Request Form. The form requires you to upload your receipt.
- Complete the Alumni Testimonial Form, we’d love to hear from you.
Graduation Gown
When you register for the Commencement Ceremony, you will enter your cap and gown information, such as size and degree program. The Commencement fee includes the purchase of your cap and gown.
All graduation regalia will arrive about 1 month before the ceremony. Once they arrive, you will receive a confirmation email to pick up your items. You will be able to pick up your graduation regalia during IAU’s normal business hours.
In-Person Gown Pickup
- Bring your physical photo ID.
- Make sure your gown set is complete before leaving.
- If you earned a 4.0 GPA, bring proof at pickup to receive your honor cord.
Authorized Representative Pickup
Email fm@iaula.edu in advance to authorize your representative.
Your authorized representative must bring their physical photo ID.
Make sure your representative confirms the gown set is complete before leaving.
- If you earned a 4.0 GPA, your representative must bring proof in order to receive your honor cord.
Commencement Ceremony
Often referred to as “Graduation”, the Commencement Ceremony is just that, a ceremony. It is an end-of-spring term celebration for IAU alumnus and students who have completed their program. Students who are projected to successfully complete all of their graduation requirements by the end of the upcoming Summer term may also participate if they are on track to graduation and have fulfilled their academic and financial obligations.
Commencement is coordinated by the Office of Student Services, Media Team. There is only one Commencement Ceremony that takes place in the summer term each year to celebrate graduation from the previous Spring or upcoming Fall term.
You will not receive a diploma at the Commencement Ceremony. Confirmation of degree completion will not take place until official grades are posted. It is highly recommended that you meet with your academic advisor prior to your last term at IAU in order to review your records and ensure all graduation requirements will be met.
Am I eligible to participate in Commencement Ceremony?
For non-doctoral students:
Must meet one of the following requirements:
- Be an IAU Alumni (previous graduate),
- Be conditionally approved for graduation
- Be on track to graduate within the Commencement eligibility period and maintain a CGPA of 2.0 (ABA/BBA) or 3.0 (MBA).
For doctoral students:
Must satisfy all academic degree requirements and clear all financial obligations to participate in the Commencement Ceremony. A “Conditionally Approved” status is not sufficient. Their status in myIAU must be updated to “Graduated.”
Do I need to sign up to attend?
Yes, in order to participate in and attend the Commencement Ceremony, you must register for the event. The Office of Media & Events (MAE) will provide a registration site when the time comes.
Please note, registration does not guarantee that you will be able to participate. Each student will be subject to the eligibility requirements.
Will my name be announced during a Ceremony?
Yes, every graduate will have their name read as they cross the stage, regardless of whether it is listed in the program or not.
How do I get my cap and gown?
When you register for the Commencement Ceremony, you will enter your cap and gown information, such as size and degree program. The Commencement fee includes the purchase of your cap and gown.
All graduation regalia will arrive 2-3 weeks before the ceremony. Once they arrive, you will receive a confirmation email to pick up your items. You will be able to pick up your graduation regalia during IAU’s normal business hours.
Do I need to check in when I get there?
Yes. Please come to check-in wearing your cap and gown and have your ticket ready. The check-in time will be emailed to those who RSVP. There will be IAU staff members at the location to check you in.
When should my guests arrive to the Ceremony?
We recommend guests arrive at least 1 hour prior to ceremony to secure parking and seating.
How do I get pictures of the event?
Professional photographers will be stationed on and around the stage. Photos will be emailed to all attendees within three weeks after the ceremony. Additionally, a zipped file of the Commencement Ceremony photos will be made available on this webpage.
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How long is the Ceremony?
Approximately two hours.
How can I get an invitation letter for myself or for my family and friends?
IAU does not issue invitation letters. Instead, you may write a personal letter. Templates are available for:
- Guest Invitation Letter – for family or friends
- Self Invitation Letter – for students traveling to the U.S.
Important:
- Templates are view-only.
- Make a copy before editing (Go to File > Make a Copy or Download).
- Replace all [bracketed] sections with your details.
- These are personal letters (not on IAU letterhead; no university stamp or signature required).
Who can I contact for more information?
Join the Red Eagle Family!
