I think I am ready to graduate. What now?
As the student, it is your responsibility to know when you are ready to graduate. To verify this, we suggest you request an update before applying for graduation. We also suggest you request a Preliminary Graduation Review when you are 9-12 hours from graduation or when you register for what you think to be your final classes.
I have verified I am ready to graduate. How do I apply?
Degrees and certificates are conferred three times each year - in December, May and August. Make an appointment to sit down with your student advisor so you can submit the graduation application by the published deadline to be considered a candidate for a particular graduation.
I am enrolled in my last class. Can I apply?
Yes, you can apply. However, you must complete and pass all course requirements by the end of the term of graduation (e.g., May, August, or December 31). If you are completing coursework at a different institution and require courses be transferred, make sure the official transcript is sent directly to SouthArk, attention Student Services Department, at the completion of the course. This document can arrive at any time after the graduation date. If, for any reason, you are unable to complete graduation requirements by the deadline, you will be required to resubmit your application for a subsequent graduation.
I have submitted my application. When will I receive a response?
SouthArk conducts graduation reviews on or after the respective application submission deadlines. For example, we will not review candidate applications for December graduation before October 1 unless it is warranted. Applications are reviewed in the order received, so it is advisable to apply as soon as you are eligible.
What will I receive after I apply?
If you are eligible to graduate you will receive a Marching Request form. This form is informing us if you will be walking or not in the actual graduation ceremony held at the El Dorado Conference Center on the scheduled date and time for that school term.
Once your official review has been completed and it is determined all degree requirements have been met, your diploma will be handed to you on the night of the graduation ceremony, available for you to pick up on days following the graduation ceremony, or mailed out. If it is determined you have not met all graduation requirements, you will receive a call from the department’s dean in which you where obtaining your degree.
I do not want to participate in a ceremony. Can I just get my diploma?
You do not have to take part in the ceremony as the ceremony does not confer graduation. It is public recognition of your achievement, so participation is voluntary. All diplomas, Technical Certificates, and Certificates of Proficiency are available for pick up in the days following the actual graduation ceremony. These dates and times will be posted on the website and annotated on your graduation instruction letter.
I want to march in a ceremony. What can I do?
After you apply for graduation, a Marching Request Form will be available for you to fill out. In the Spring and Fall there will be a letter of instructions posted on the website with additional information in reference to the ceremony, rehearsal, caps and gowns, etc.
