Information for Graduates
Graduation Eligibility and Applying for Graduation
The university confers degrees at the end of each fall, spring, and summer term. Commencement ceremonies are held at the end of the fall semester to recognize fall degree candidates, and at the end of the spring semester to recognize spring degree candidates. Summer graduates, who receive approval from their advisor and successfully apply to graduate through the Registrar’s process in Pirate Port may attend either the fall or spring ceremony. All coursework and all other degree requirements must be completed prior to the degree conferral date for the graduation term. Students should consult with your academic advisor to ensure your Degree Works audit is complete or will be completed on time.
Instructions on How to Apply for Graduation
Cap and Gown Orders
Dowdy Students Stores, located in the Main Campus Student Center, is East Carolina University’s official source for graduation regalia, merchandise, and apparel.
Where do I get my cap and gown?
Graduating students can pick up their cap and gown at Dowdy Student Stores.
For undergraduate students, you do not need to pay for the cap and gown as the cost was built into other student graduation fees – please stop into the store for pickup during regular business hours.
For Master’s degree students, you do not need to pay for the cap and gown but will need to purchase your hood separately if you wish to participate in the ceremony – please stop into the store for purchase during regular business hours. Dowdy Student Stores know which color hood goes with each specific degree.
For Doctoral students, you can come into the store to be fitted for and rent regalia. If ordered online, they will be shipped directly to the bookstore. Rental regalia will need to be returned to the bookstore a week after the commencement ceremony.
If you are not in the Greenville area during the semester and you are an undergraduate or masters degree student graduating, please complete the form on the cap and gown page to place your order. This form is for students that live outside of Greenville and would like their regalia shipped to them for an additional shipping fee of $8.99.
Graduation Mementos
Jostens and University Frames are ECU vendors selling custom printed announcements, photo cards, class rings, and diploma frames. You may visit Jostens or University Frames to view their merchandise.