Admissions & Aid
Graduation
Graduation Application
After registering for the last semester, students can apply for graduation. Be sure the application is made before the deadline.
- FALL 2026 Graduation Application Deadline - Friday, October 30, 2026
How to Apply:
- Log into
- Under Student, select Graduation Application
Verify all information for accuracy. If the name and address on record is correct, continue the application. If not, submit a Student Information Change Form.
Commencement Ceremony Information
Summer & Fall 2026 Commencement
91¾ÞÈé is pleased to celebrate the accomplishments of our Summer and Fall 2026 graduates!
Commencement exercises will be held on Thursday, December 17, 2026, with two ceremonies recognizing graduates from different academic and workforce programs. Graduates and guests are encouraged to review the following information to ensure an enjoyable and memorable celebration.
Location
91¾ÞÈé – Cherokee Campus
Richard Lindsey Arena
801 Cedar Bluff Road
Centre, AL 35960
Ceremony Schedule
Thursday, December 17, 2026
10:00 a.m. – Academic and Health Sciences Programs
- Guest seating opens at 8:00 a.m.
- Graduate check-in begins at 8:00 a.m.
3:00 p.m. – Workforce Development Programs
- Guest seating opens at 1:00 p.m.
- Graduate check-in begins at 1:00 p.m.
Graduates should attend the ceremony designated for their program of study.
Information for Guests
We look forward to welcoming family members and friends as we celebrate our graduates. Please note the following:
- Seating and Parking: Parking is limited, and carpooling is strongly encouraged. To accommodate as many families as possible, we recommend that each graduate invite no more than four guests.
- Arrival: Arena seating opens two hours before each ceremony. Guests are encouraged to arrive early to allow sufficient time for parking and seating.
- Prohibited Items: Balloons, noisemakers, and backpacks are not permitted inside the arena.
Information for Graduates
Check-In and Arrival
All graduates must report to the Cherokee Administration Building for check-in and processional lineup.
Morning Ceremony – 10:00 a.m.
Academic and Health Sciences Programs
- Graduate check-in begins at 8:00 a.m.
Afternoon Ceremony – 3:00 p.m.
Workforce Development Programs
- Graduate check-in begins at 1:00 p.m.
Graduates should arrive early enough to complete check-in, participate in photography, and receive instructions before their ceremony.
Graduation Photography
Professional graduation photography will be available before each ceremony. Graduates are encouraged to allow additional time for photographs.
Processional Lineup
Following check-in, graduates will receive instructions regarding lineup procedures, seating assignments, and participation in the commencement processional.
Graduates should follow the directions of commencement staff to help ensure an orderly and timely ceremony.
Commencement Attire and Academic Regalia
Academic Regalia
- An academic cap and gown are required for participation in commencement.
Recommended Attire
- Dress clothes, business casual attire, or neat jeans are appropriate beneath the academic gown.
- Comfortable shoes suitable for walking, climbing stairs, and standing for extended periods are strongly recommended.
Personal Belongings
Graduates are encouraged to bring only essential personal items.
- Purses, backpacks, and other personal belongings should be left with a guest or secured in a vehicle.
- Secure storage is not available for graduates' personal belongings.
- Clothing with pockets or a small crossbody bag that can be worn discreetly beneath the academic gown is recommended for essential items.
Gadsden State awards the following honor cords at commencement:
Associate Degree Level:
- GPA 3.9 to 4.0 - Summa Cum Laude / Gold Cord
- GPA 3.7 to 3.89 - Magna Cum Laude / Red Cord
- GPA 3.5 to 3.69 - Cum Laude / Red and Gold Cord
Certificate Level:
- GPA of 3.5 to 4.0 - With Distinction / Black and Red Cord
We Look Forward to Celebrating With You!
Commencement is a significant milestone, recognizing the hard work, dedication, and achievements of our graduates. 91¾ÞÈé looks forward to celebrating this special occasion with our graduates, their families, and friends.
91¾ÞÈé has partnered with Parchment, Inc. to manage the issuance of optional printed diplomas and certificates. In addition to printed awards, each student placing an order will receive a secure PDF version to share with family, prospective employers, and on social media.
Students are able to request both their diplomas and transcripts online through Parchment using their student number or Social Security Number.
Purchase cap, gown and tassel from the Ayers or Gadsden Campus bookstore. The price is approximately $60.
The Grad Team will capture official commencement photos during each ceremony. A photo will be taken as the student crosses the stage, and students may also have photos taken prior to the ceremony in the Administration Building.
Photo proofs will be mailed and emailed to graduates and their families within one week of the ceremony.
Students, visitors and employees with disabilities should call 256-549-8462 or email ADA@gadsdenstate.edu to discuss accommodation needs.
To request an interpreter, please contact as early as possible to allow time for scheduling and preparation.
Final Audits
Please note that all candidates for graduation will undergo an official graduation audit after final grades post. Graduation is final only after all requirements are met and the official audit is complete. The process may take two weeks to complete. After all audits have been finalized, an email will be sent notifying students of transcript availability.
Graduation FAQs
How will I know if I am accepted for graduation?
Check your Gadsden State Student email for updates on your graduation evaluation.
When can I request my transcript with my graduation award on it?
Emails will be sent out after final audits are completed once grades post for that semester. Final audits can take up to two weeks to finalize.
Do I have to attend the ceremony?
No, whether you walk at the ceremony or not is completely your choice as the graduate.
Will students receive diplomas at the graduation ceremony?
No, students do not receive diplomas at the graduation ceremony. Final evaluations must occur before student diplomas can be ordered.
When will diplomas be ready?
Once final audits are complete, we will provide graduates with instructions on how to order an optional printed diploma.