Congratulations on your upcoming graduation! The following information will help you prepare for graduation and commencement. Best wishes for your future.
Graduation Planning
Step 1
Complete and submit the online Graduation Application here.
Step 2
Watch for the announcement during April to order your cap and gown attire if you are participating in Commencement.
For more information or if you have questions, contact:
Erica Gelo, Registrar (Office 146)
Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College
2101 14th Street
Cloquet, MN 55720
218-879-0746
erica*AT*fdltcc.edu
Commencement Ceremony
This year’s in-person ceremony is Thursday, May 9, 2024, 6:30 p.m. in the Lester Jack Briggs Cultural Center at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College. The ceremony will be livestreamed and details will be available closer to the event date.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT GRADUATION AND COMMENCEMENT
What is graduation?
Graduation is the official confirmation that you have met all requirements and that your degree has been conferred. Degree conferral refers to the official completion of a student’s degree, as recognized by Minnesota State.
What is commencement?
Commencement is the actual ceremony that celebrates your graduation.
When should I apply for graduation?
If you plan on graduating at the end of Fall Semester 2023: 11/01/2023
If you plan on graduating at the end of Spring Semester 2024: 03/01/2024
If you plan on graduating at the end of Summer Session 2024: 03/01/2024
Where do I get an application for graduation?
You may access the graduation application on this site, see above for the link.
Is there a fee for the graduation application?
There is no fee to apply for graduation.
How long does it take to process my application and how will I be notified of my status?
The review process may take up to two weeks. You will be notified of your outcome by the Registrar’s Office.
Who can I talk to if I have questions about my graduation application?
Erica Gelo, Registrar, at 218-879-0746, erica*AT*fdltcc.edu
When is the commencement ceremony?
We offer one ceremony each academic year for all graduates. It is typically held around the third Thursday in May in the Lester Jack Briggs Cultural Center at Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College.
Who can participate?
To participate in the commencement ceremony in May, a student must have six credits or less to complete his/her graduation requirements. One rehearsal will be held on the day prior to commencement.
What should I wear to commencement?
Gown, cap and honor cords (if eligible), it is a semi-formal occasion.
Where do I get information about cap/gown and invitations?
Information will be sent out to all eligible graduates in April.
How do I qualify for academic honors or honor tassel?
Academic honors will be determined by cumulative grade point average calculated at the end of Fall Semester.
- 3.5 GPA Honors
- 3.75 GPA High Honors
Will I actually receive my diploma at commencement?
No. You will receive your official diploma approximately six to eight weeks after commencement. Your diploma will be mailed to the address provided on your completed graduation application.
What information is on my diploma?
Your name and degree earned.
When will my degree be reflected on my transcript?
After grades have been entered and given to the Vice President of Academic Affairs for a final review and signature.
How long does commencement last?
The commencement ceremony typically lasts between an hour and a half to two hours, depending on the length of speeches and number of graduates. No cell phone usage is allowed during the ceremony.
How many people can I invite to commencement?
Seating is reserved for graduates and faculty only. There is open seating for families and friends and no limit to the number of guests and no tickets are necessary.
What if I need accommodations to participate in the commencement ceremony?
Fond du Lac Tribal and Community College is committed to providing accommodations so that all graduates and guests can enjoy the commencement exercises. At least three weeks in advance, please contact the Disability Services office at 218-879-0805 to make your request.
Will my name be published in my local newspaper?
The college prepares and distributes a press release after the date of the commencement exercises. The list of graduates is produced by the college registrar and includes current city of residence as listed in your official student record. The press release is sent to as many local and regional newspapers as possible. It is at the discretion of the newspaper editor whether or not they will publish the information.
Will I be able to purchase graduation photos?
The college does not officially offer photos of the event for sale but does post many candid images on the college Facebook page and/or the college website. An agreement with an outside photography vendor may be established. We will notify students if an agreement is in place where you can purchase images directly from the vendor.
What are reasons that may cause a future transcript hold after I graduate?
Unpaid tuition, fees and book charges, non-returned library materials, unpaid library charges, non-returned TRIO items, unpaid housing bill (rent, fines, or damages)