Frequently Asked Questions
(Please also visit the 2010 Commencement general information page)
How long does the ceremony last?
Each ceremony averages two hours.
Do my guests need tickets?
Tickets are not necessary for your guests. The ceremony facility (Bank Atlantic Center in Sunrise , Florida ) can accommodate several thousand guests. Unlimited guests may attend.
I already own regalia from my workplace/previous ceremony/purchased online from another source. Do I still have to complete the Commencement Participation Form and associated fee?
Yes, as stated above, the fee is a participation fee and payment for the cost of the standard regalia (cap and gown). Submission of the CPF reserves your place in the ceremony. There are subtle differences in the regalia for different degrees. Regalia purchased from another source is not the appropriate regalia for NSU. When you submit the CPF to NSU's Office of the Registrar, your name is added to the commencement database. The database serves to note your intention to participate in the ceremony, and assures that you will be sent further instructions regarding the ceremony.
How do I obtain my cap and gown (regalia)?
The Commencement Participation Form (CPF), available to eligible candidates only, must be completed and submitted to the University along with the appropriate fee. The receipt of the form by NSU serves to reserve your place in the ceremony and to order the standard regalia (cap and gown) from the NSU Bookstore. The cap and gown are yours to keep.
Where do I obtain an Application for Degree/Diploma?
An Application for Degree/Diploma can be obtained online at: http://www.nova.edu/cwis/registrar/instructions.html
When should I complete an Application for Degree/Diploma?
The application should be completed and submitted with the appropriate fee. The application can be submitted early and kept on file in order to expedite the process once your program requirements have been met.
Is there a rehearsal prior to the ceremony?
No. Students should arrive at the ceremony one hour prior to the start time of the ceremony for instruction and appropriate placement in the processional.
I completed and paid for my Application for Degree/Diploma. When will my degree be conferred and reflect on my official transcript of record?
All program requirements must be complete, all grades must be officially posted on your academic transcript, including transfer of credit/s and all obligations (tuition and fees paid, library books returned, equipment returned, bookstore obligations met, etc.) have been satisfied. The Application for Degree/Diploma is then approved by your program office and submitted to the Office of the Registrar for conferral of the degree. Degrees are awarded at the end of the official term of the candidate’s last term of enrollment. The degree conferral date is the date that appears on the diploma.
What if I owe the University money?
The Office of the Registrar will confer your degree, however, all transcripts and the diploma will be held until all monies owed have been paid in full via ebill at http://www.nova.edu/cwis/bursar/ebill/. For questions, please contact the Bursar’s Office by email or by phone at (954) 262-5200.
When will I receive my diploma?
You will receive a letter notifying you when to expect receipt of the diploma. Diplomas are mailed priority mail for delivery within three to four business days. This does not account for holidays or international mailings. This process takes approximately two (2) to three (3) weeks arrival time. Should you find any discrepancies, please notify us immediately by sending an email to: nsuregistrar@nsu.nova.edu.
