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Mandatory Graduation Surveys

Required for all graduating students, these surveys are designed to help GW and Elliott learn more about the experiences and future plans of our students.

You must complete the appropriate survey to be able to register for Commencement.

Graduating Student Survey

Each graduating student who has indicated an intent to participate in commencement ceremonies on their graduation application is eligible to have: 

• up to 5 guests for the May 15, 2026 Elliott School Celebration.
• up to 5 guests for the May 17, 2026 Commencement on the National Mall.

Registration for Commencement Week events closes April 20th, 2026.

Register for Commencement Here

Virtual Office Hours

From March 25 to April 17, attend a virtual office hours session, where you can review any issues you encounter during registration with a Commencement team member. No appointment is needed, and spots issued are on a first come, first served basis while time allows.

Attend Virtual Office Hours

Apply to Graduate

Spring 2026 graduates must submit a Graduation Application in GWeb by March 14, 2026.

Summer graduates who plan to attend the May commencement ceremony must apply for graduation after registering for summer 2026 courses no later than April 1. 

Frequently Asked Questions

If I am finishing my degree in the summer, can I participate in commencement?

Yes, just apply for summer graduation in GWeb by April 1, after you register for summer courses, to ensure you are included in the commencement program.

If I am a fall 2025 graduate, can I participate in commencement?

Yes, all fall 2025 graduates are eligible to participate and will be included in communications.

What if I miss the March 14 (or April 1 for summer) application deadlines in GWeb?

You can still apply for graduation in GWeb, but inclusion in the celebration program cannot be guaranteed due to publishing deadlines. 

What if I didn’t receive a confirmation after applying to graduate?

You can check DegreeMAP to confirm that the application is on file.

If an application is on file for you, then you will see the words "Sought-Applied to Graduate" or "Applied Late Degree Clearance" in the "Graduation Application" field on your DegreeMAP audit. This is located near the top, in the same section as your name, GWID, Major, etc.

Does the Elliott School provide graduation cords or stoles?

Cords are handled by each organization. If you are involved in a group that you know or think might provide cords or stoles for graduation, we encourage you to contact that organization. If you are an Elliott School Dean's Scholar, you will be contacted about graduation cords for that program. Otherwise, there are no cords associated with Elliott School degree programs and Elliott does not provide cords or stoles for Latin Honors.

Are there two ceremonies for graduation? Which should I attend?

Yes, there is an Elliott School ceremony on May 15 AND a GW-wide commencement ceremony on May 17. You can attend both and the content will be different at each event! At the Elliott School ceremony, each graduating student will be recognized individually and cross the stage. 

What is the bag policy?

Bags larger than 5”x7”x0.75” are prohibited at all school celebrations and Commencement on the National Mall (permitted bags are subject to search)

Diaper and ADA/medical bags up to 16”x16”x8” will be allowed.  Permitted bags are subject to search. If you bring a permitted bag, expect a longer wait time and delayed entry. For more information and a list of prohibited items see the Commencement website.

Please also refer to the University Commencement site for additional Frequently Asked Questions and answers.

External Impacts on Commencement Weekend Events

WMATA Metro trains will not operate between the Crystal City and Potomac Yard stations (Yellow and Blue lines) May 16-17.  WMATA will provide free shuttle buses.  Add more travel time if you will be impacted by the suspension in service.

Freedom250 will host an event near GW’s Commencement on May 17.  There may be an increased use of rideshare services and street closures surrounding that event that could impact graduate and guest arrivals.  Updates will be posted as they become available.

See more information about travel, parking, and more on the Plan Your Visit Commencement website.

Accessibility

GW is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. Please see the information regarding Smith Center and National Mall accessibility on the University Commencement website.

Questions?

Contact us at esiacelebrationgwu [dot] edu (esiacelebration[at]gwu[dot]edu).

View Past Celebrations

Contact us at esiacelebrationgwu [dot] edu (esiacelebration[at]gwu[dot]edu) with questions.