Graduation Day FAQs

Is attendance at Graduation mandatory?

The administration, faculty and staff of Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University strongly encourage all graduates to attend the ceremony as a way to celebrate this special achievement. If you choose not to attend the ceremony, you are still required to complete certain steps such as verifying your name and address with the Registrar and paying any outstanding fees with the Bursar’s office (i.e., the Graduation fee).

What do I need to bring with me on Graduation Day?

It is strongly suggested that graduates arrive already dressed in their caps and gowns to ensure you have all items with you. Please leave all cameras, phones, and other devices at home or with someone else during the ceremony, as you will not be able to have anything in your hands or over your gown (such as purses). You will be allowed to wear a small purse under your gown. If you choose to wear any items you received at your Pinning and Awards Ceremony the day before (Honor cords/tassels, clinical pins), it is your responsibility to bring them to the River Center on Graduation Day.

Is there a rehearsal for the Graduation ceremony?

There is NO rehearsal for Graduation. This is one of the main reasons that graduating students are strongly encouraged to attend Graduation Prep Day. Also, please carefully review the Graduation Packet that you will receive at Grad Prep Day (or by email if you do not attend), as it will contain many important details about Graduation Day.

When do I receive my cap and gown? When do I pay for them?

The cost of your cap, gown, tassel, and all other regalia items is included in your Graduation Fee (which is required of all graduates).

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

There will be designated dates for picking up your cap and gown about a month and a half before the ceremony. Please continue monitoring your email as these dates will be sent to you at the beginning of your graduating semester.

Note: If you choose not to attend Graduation, you can still have your cap and gown shipped to you, as they are included in your Graduation fee. If interested, please contact the University main line at (225)526-1700 to be directed to the appropriate office.

What is the Graduation fee? How do I pay?

The Graduation fee is a requirement for all graduates whether or not they choose to attend the Commencement ceremony. It covers the cost of the degree audit, diploma, cap and gown, clinical pin (or pen if in a non-clinical program), and other Graduation-related costs. All students will receive an email bill once the Graduation fee has been added to their accounts. Students can then pay the Graduation fee online through Wolf Tracks, mail a check, or pay in person at the Bursar's office. Refer to your FranU email for more instructions.

If I am not planning to attend Graduation, am I required to pay the Graduation fee?

Yes, the Graduation fee is required of all graduating students, as it covers a variety of Graduation related costs such as the cap and gown, degree audit, diploma, clinical pin (or small gift if in a non-clinical program), and other expenses.

When and how do I receive my diploma?

A digital and printed diploma will be awarded to each graduate.

Within 48 hours of graduation, you will receive instructions on how to obtain the digital copy of your diploma. The email will be sent to your FranU address. You will be able to share your digital diploma via social media (e.g., Facebook, LinkedIn) via a verified link or a secure .pdf version. Your digital diploma will always be accessible online through your Parchment account. Your Parchment account will be set up at the time of initial digital diploma obtainment.

Your printed diploma will be mailed to the address on record within 20 business days of graduation. It will be sent to you via USPS.

Who do I contact to verify the name on my diploma or to make changes?

You should contact the Registrar’s Office to verify the name on your diploma and to make changes to your name and address. Click here to visit the Registrar’s web page, which includes their contact information.