Doctoral and MFA students in terminal degrees are eligible to have degrees conferred, and to receive their diploma, at three different times during the academic year: October, February and May. To receive their degree, students must complete the Application to Graduate and have their grades and dissertation/thesis recorded by the Graduate School by the deadlines specified on the Registrar’s website.

The University can only graduate and generate diplomas for doctoral and MFA students who complete the Application to Graduate application. The application enables you to list your name as you would like it to appear on your diploma and be listed in the Commencement program. The default formula is first name, middle name, last name.

Once logged into Banner, students should select the Student Records menu and select the Application to Graduate menu item.

Application to Graduate

October and February graduates are welcome to participate along with May graduates in the Commencement ceremonies held in May. The Graduate School will reach out to October and February graduates in the Spring (to their Brown alumni email address) with instructions for registering to attend and participate. Details about Commencement ceremonies and events can be found on the Commencement website.

Register to attend the ceremony

Registration to attend either the Doctoral or Master’s Commencement Ceremony must be completed on the Application to Graduate, as well as through the Tassel platform, which opened on March 11 (look for a message in your Brown email or alumni account).

Purchase academic regalia

Regalia (cap or tam, gown and hood) or formal military attire should be worn for Brown’s Procession and Commencement ceremonies. Details about how to wear regalia can be found on the Commencement website. Doctoral students may rent or purchase regalia from the Brown University Bookstore. Master’s students may purchase regalia as part of a keepsake package during the Grad Fair, held in late April, or directly from the Bookstore.  

Sign up for photos

Brown has partnered with GradImages to capture your big moment. Photographers will be stationed to take photos before you cross the stage, during your hooding, as you shake the Fellow’s hand, and after you receive your diploma case. Sign up to receive an email with an option to select a free photo and order images (optional).

Fill out accessibility forms (if needed)

• If you as the graduate require disability accommodations for Commencement weekend, please contact Student Accessibility Services at 401-863-9588 or via email at SAS@brown.edu as soon as possible.
• Information regarding disability accommodations for guests will be posted on the Commencement website by March 16.