What is the NLU commencement registration process?
You are currently able to submit a diploma and degree finalization to graduate on September 15, 2019, December 31, 2019, April 15, 2020, or June 30, 2020. You must complete the diploma and degree finalization request online to register for commencement. All degree finalization requests must be received by July 31, 2020 if planning on participating in commencement.
This request will begin your diploma finalization process AND also allow you to register for the commencement ceremony at your campus.
If you did not receive a confirmation email, are not sure whether your form has been received or you have missed the deadline, call the Office of Admissions and Records at 800.366.3623 extension 5718.
To participate in the commencement ceremony, you also must order a cap and gown from Herff Jones.
Is there a cost for commencement registration?
There is no cost to participate in the commencement ceremony. NLU provides the ceremony to its students for free. Most universities charge a commencement fee; however, NLU hosts the ceremony as a gift, in celebration of your accomplishment and hard work!
You must purchase your cap and gown from Herff Jones to participate in the commencement ceremony.
Is there a cost for my cap and gown? How do I order?
You can your cap and gown only from Herff Jones. The deadline to order your regalia is December 31, 2020. Orders placed after this date will incur expedited handling fees.
Undergraduate cap, gown, tassel, and stole of gratitude are $52.00 plus tax (IL only) and shipping. Undergraduates wear black gowns and caps with the NLU tassels and a Stole of Gratitude.
Master's cap, gown, tassel and hood are $52.00 plus tax (IL only) and shipping.
Educational Specialist cap, gown, tassel and hood are $54.00 plus tax (IL only) and shipping.
Doctoral candidate cap, gown, tassel and hood are $58.00 plus tax (IL only) and shipping. Doctoral candidates also have the opportunity to purchase high quality NLU’s custom doctoral regalia, or design their own high quality regalia.
What color should my regalia be?
Academic regalia colors have been standardized across the country.
Bachelor's degree recipients wear a black gown and tasseled mortarboard. The tassel color indicates their program major.
At the master’s and doctoral degree level, both the tassel and hood border color indicate the program major, while the hood lining represents the alma mater. NLU’s colors are platinum and blue Those holding a doctoral degree have sleeve chevrons on the gown matching the hood border.
Will I receive my diploma at the ceremony?
No, you will receive a diploma cover containing alumni information. Remember that your participation or attendance at an NLU commencement does not mean that you have completed your degree. Your diploma will be sent to you only if you have submitted your diploma finalization form, all of your degree requirements have been fulfilled and you have no financial responsibility to NLU. Diplomas are sent out approximately six weeks after the degree is conferred.
