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Graduation

Graduation

Graduation Application Deadlines

  • Fall - October 15
  • Spring - March 1
  • Summer - June 1

Applications submitted after a semesters respective deadline will not be processed until the next semester.

Congratulations! You have achieved a major educational goal and will soon be graduating. As the big day draws near, there are several steps you need to take to graduate on time as well as participate in commencement ceremonies.

So, what is the difference between graduation and commencement? Graduation is the official awarding of your degree by your college once it has determined that you’ve completed your degree requirements. Commencement is the graduation ceremony your college hosts to celebrate your achievement.

Date: May 2026
Time: TBD
Location: TBD

Mesa Community College's Commencement ceremony is held only once a year, during the spring semester. 

A graduate points to the camera in the arena

Apply to Graduate

If you're a student seeking a certificate or degree, it's not too late to apply for graduation. It's important to note that all students must apply for graduation to be eligible to receive their certificate or degree.

Graduates celebrating as balloons drop

Commencement Details

We hope you will join us at the May 2026 Commencement Ceremony so we may celebrate your academic accomplishments with your family and friends. Check back for details.

A group of seven graduates standing outside the arena

RSVP to Commencement

Registration for Spring 2026 opens the week of March 25, 2026. Students who have applied to graduate will receive an email with information on how to RSVP for the event. Participation in the spring commencement ceremony is optional. Check back for details.

Four graduate seated in a row at the graduation ceremony

Order Regalia

Participation in the ceremony requires a cap and gown. Check back for details.

A graduate poses for a photo with her diploma cover

Photography & Flowers

GradImages® will be the official graduation photographer for commencement. 

The Commencement Group will offer flowers to purchase in advance of the ceremony and on-site the day of commencement. Online ordering is available.

The back of a graduation cap with the MCC Thunderbird

Special Ceremonies

Special program-specific ceremonies will coincide with the main graduation celebration.

A graduate smiles in the crowd at graduation

Get Social

Congratulations, grad! Tag MCC on your social media.

Faculty members applaud graduates

Know Before You Go

Get details about the commencement venue. Check back for details.

Chancellor Steven Gonzales speaking at the graduation podium

FAQ's

The FAQs provide helpful answers to common questions about graduation requirements, ceremony logistics, and other relevant topics. Ensure you are fully prepared for graduation.

Additional Details

Graduation Regalia

A cap and gown (regalia) are required to participate in the ceremony. Check back for details.

Your Diploma

Upon completing your degree program, you will receive a digital and physical copy of your diploma through Parchment Services. Once the diplomas are issued, you'll receive an email from Parchment via your Maricopa student email with instructions on obtaining your diploma(s) and verifying your mailing address. Additionally, you can track them online and share your diploma(s) on social media. If you have any questions regarding your diploma, visit the Parchment website for FAQs and general information.

All financial obligations to MCC must be cleared before we can release your degree and/or certificate.

Log in to redirect.maricopa.edu/student-center to update your address and check for any messages posted in your Student Center.