Graduation is right around the corner!
Preparing for graduation is a journey with many steps. There are events and stages which should be followed in order to help alleviate stress and avoid obstacles that keep you from earning your degree as efficiently as possible.
The following stages are excellent forms of planning that allow you to conquer graduation and start on a successful career path with your Northern education.
1 year prior to graduation
As you approach graduation, meet with your advisor to review your degree audit and confirm any remaining course requirements. Your advisor can also assist with any needed adjustments, substitutions, or waivers.
Be sure to register for graduation along with your final courses. Instructions are available here.
Also, keep an eye on your cumulative GPA—graduation requires a minimum GPA of 2.0. If you're aiming for Academic Honors, maintain a GPA of 3.5 or higher.
9 months prior to graduation
Consider your post-graduation goals. If you're planning to apply to graduate school, now is a great time to update your résumé to reflect your accomplishments at NMU.
Helpful resources include, but are not limited to:
5-7 months prior to graduation
Once you've confirmed you're on track to meet your final graduation requirements, it's time to explore the opportunities that follow earning your degree. NMU offers a range of resources to help you prepare for life after college and land a job soon after graduation.
Take advantage of the following services through Career Services:
Attend Career Fairs
Enroll in Career Coaching
Explore additional opportunities and support offered by NMU Career Services
Final semester prior to graduation
You're registered for graduation, you're in your final requirements and your GPA is stellar. Now it's time to finish out the semester strong and make sure you're prepared for Commencement!
Review the Graduation Checklist to make sure you're prepared.
2-4 months prior to graduation
Graduation eligible students will receive confirmation via email during the first week of the semester. If you're missing requirements, you'll be notified before the semester starts. Be sure to register for any remaining courses and consult your advisor to discuss possible adjustments.
Planning to walk in May but finishing in summer? You can still participate in the May Commencement and officially graduate in August once your final credits are completed.
Additionally, be sure to secure your Commencement regalia, and watch for emails about the Grad Fair—your best opportunity to purchase your cap and gown.
1 month prior to graduation
Congratulations! You're almost to the finish line! With graduation just around the corner, now’s the time to take care of a few final details if you haven’t already. This includes planning for commencement celebrations, making hotel or dinner reservations, and beginning your apartment search if needed.
If you haven’t picked up your cap and gown, stop by the NMU Bookstore in the Northern Center. Graduation announcements are also available at the Bookstore or through Printing Services, 207 Services Building. Cap and Gowns can also be rented out through the ASNMU Grad Closet
Graduation week
Rehearsal
Spring Commencement rehearsal will be held on Friday, December 12th, 2025. Graduates assemble at the Superior Dome at 2:15 p.m.
Commencement
Spring commencement will be held on Saturday, December 13th, 2025. Graduates assemble at Vandament Arena in the Physical Education Instructional Facility (PEIF) for commencement before marching to the Dome.
Arrive early on commencement day (between 9:15 a.m. and 9:30 a.m.) to line up and receive your name card. The procession will leave the Vandament Arena 10 to 20 minutes before the ceremony. You cannot be added to the procession once it leaves the Practice Gyms.