Graduation: Frequently Asked Questions

(for students seeking master's degrees)

Q: I have applied for graduation, but I haven’t heard anything from the
School of Graduate Studies (SGS) yet. Why?

A: Once you complete your Application for Candidacy, the SGS does a
thorough review of your application. We check for a current program of
study that has been signed by your academic advisor and by you, the
student. We check to see if you require proof of passing comps, portfolio or
thesis, and whether or not we have this information from your academic
department. We check to see if you have paid your graduation fee and
whether or not you have any holds (registration or financial) on your
account. We also check to see if you have followed your program of study—
and if not, we get with your academic advisor to resolve these questions
BEFORE we notify you that there is a problem.

Q: I have applied for graduation but now, I am not going to finish my
degree requirements on schedule and need to delay my graduation to
another semester. What do I need to do?

A: You should notify the SGS/GESO in writing as soon as possible. We will
move your candidacy application to our next graduation.

Q: When will my degree be posted on my transcript?

A: We will try and have your degree posted on your transcript within 1 to 2
weeks of your graduation. Our office works in conjunction with the
Registrar’s Office in posting your degree.

Q: My Grade Point Average (GPA) is pretty low. What is the minimum GPA
required to graduate with a master’s degree?

A: All master’s degree candidates are required to have a minimum of a 3.0
graduate GPA.

Q: My GPA is pretty high. What do I need to do to receive honors?

A: AASU does not designate honors at the master’s level, as all students are
required to have a 3.0 minimum GPA to graduate.

Q: I have repeated some courses. Which one of my grades count?

A: AASU’s current policy is that when a course is repeated, only the last grade
earned counts towards the earned hours requirement, GPA hours, points
and overall GPA. However, ALL course work taken will show on your
academic transcript.

Q: I completed my degree requirements early. Why can’t I get my
diploma now?

A: At AASU, diplomas are issued twice a year, at the end of Spring and
Fall terms. If you need proof that you have met your degree requirements,
contact the SGS/GESO and request a “Requirements Met Letter”.

Q: What does the graduation fee cover?

A: The graduation fee covers the cost of you gown, hood, diploma, diploma
cover and commencement programs.

Q: How do I order my graduation regalia?

A: AASU’s University bookstore handles ordering the regalia, announcements,
etc. You should contact them about your order.

Q: I will not be able to attend graduation. What do I need to do?

A: All degree candidates are expected to attend the commencement ceremony.
However, if you are unable to attend, you must submit a written request to
the Office of Student Affairs asking to graduate in absentia. Mail your
request to: Vice-President of Student Affairs, AASU, 11935 Abercorn Street,
Savannah, GA, 31419. You may also fax your letter to 912.921.5497.
Please be sure to give your AASU student identification number and indicate
the address where your diploma should be mailed.

Q: How many people can I invite to my graduation?

A: Currently, there is no limit on the number of guests a student may invite to
the commencement ceremony.

Q: Either myself or a family member need special accommodations due to
a wheelchair. Who should I contact?

A: If you or a family member needs special accommodations, please contact
Disability Services at 912.927.5269 to request assistance.

Visit us in Victor Hall, 2nd floor
Monday - Friday
8:15 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Or Call
912-344-2798