Graduation Information

Regardless of whether your educational goal is an Associate of Applied Science, an Associate of Arts, an Associate of Science or a technical certification, there is a certain process towards getting your diploma or certificate. Lone Star College–Tomball Enrollment Services offers you the resources to complete these steps and reach your goal. From declaring a major to following up on transferred credits to applying for graduation, the appropriate tools and assistance are available.

• Graduation Ceremony is a time to celebrate accomplishments.
  
• Celebration should be respectful of other members of the graduating class.
  
• Every graduate would like for family and friends to hear his or her name called when receiving certificate or degree.
  
• Graduates and guests should keep talking and movement during the ceremony to a minimum.
  
• Remember to have fun as you take this very important step towards personal and professional enrichment.

Lone Star College System graduates are expected to wear regalia without altering the appearance. Academic regalia has a rich history of tradition and significance we wish to honor. Please - no flowers (corsages), pins, stoles, or alterations to mortarboards. Graduates who have EARNED stoles through academic achievement i.e., Dean’s List, Honor’s Program or service to the colleges i.e., Ambassadors will wear the college approved stoles. All others are asked to respect the time-honored traditions of graduation by wearing regalia as issued. In addition, the appropriate way to wear the mortarboard is flat on top the head and not off to the side or fixed to the back of the head by pins.

1. Why are some students allowed to wear stoles or cords with their regalia?

Answer: Only those who have earned recognition through academic achievement or service to the college are allowed to wear approved stoles or cords at graduation.

2. Why can’t I sit with my fellow students who were in the same program?

Answer: There are dozens of academic and technical programs and other student activity groups such as performing groups, clubs, etc. that would like to sit together. It is not possible to organize the ceremony around each special interest's group request to walk together. Alphabetical lineup is the best solution so that all are treated fairly and friends and family are able to follow the program for the commencement exercises.

3. What is the meaning of the different colors, styles of gowns, and other regalia that faculty wear?

Answer: A detailed explanation of faculty regalia appears in the commencement program.

Graduates can expect to see his or her diploma(s) in the mail. If applying for December graduation, graduates can expect to see their diploma in the mail after February 15. If applying for May graduation, graduates can expect to see their diploma in the mail after June 15 and September 31, for summer graduates. These dates are approximate and are only announced for your information.