FAQ

I need proof of graduation from McGill University before Convocation.

You can generate a Proof of Graduation letter on Minerva from the Student Records Menu->Letters - Proof of Enrolment, the day after Senate has approved the list of graduates. Prior to the Senate approval date, you can generate a Proof of Expected-to-Graduate letter.

I will not be attending the Convocation Ceremony. What will happen to my diploma?

Diplomas will be held at Service Point for a month following Convocation, then mailed to your permanent address on Minerva.

How do I make name or spelling changes for my diploma?

You can make changes (i.e., accents, capitalization, apostrophes and hyphens, etc.) on Minerva.

You should verify your name on Minerva prior to graduating. You can add accents, hyphens or change the case(upper/lower) on the Name Change form. If you need to change your name, you must submit a request with supporting documents to Service Point. This must be done by Friday, April 26, 2013.

What is the format of diplomas and who should I contact about frames?

Degree parchments are 11" X 17" in the landscape orientation. Certificates and diplomas are 11" X 17" in the portrait orientation. The McGill Bookstore offers graduates a selection of custom-made diploma frames.

For more information, click here.

Can I pick up my diploma before Convocation?

No. Diplomas are printed just before the Ceremony.

Will my awards show on my diploma?

No. Any awards or honours you receive will be listed on your official transcripts only.

Can I have my diploma translated?

Enrolment Services will certify and translate as many copies as required at no charge, and requests will be processed on the spot.

For more information, click here.

What is the difference between Convocation and graduation?

Graduation is the term used to acknowledge that you have met your degree requirements and have been approved by Senate to graduate from your program. Convocation refers to the ceremony where the Chancellor confers your degree. You must graduate in order to attend Convocation, but you do not need to attend Convocation in order to graduate.

Am I on the graduation list?

You can view your expected graduation term at the top right-hand corner of your unofficial transcript.

Students can view the status of their graduation approval on Minerva by accessing the "Graduation Approval Query" through the "Student Records Menu." Students should contact their faculty's Student Affairs Office with any questions related to their graduation status.

Why haven't I been flagged to graduate? How do I register for graduation?

It is the responsibility of every student to declare their intention to graduate. Click here for more information. If your record does not indicate that you are graduating and you intend to graduate in the Spring, contact your faculty Student Affairs Office immediately.

Where do I pick up my academic dress and my line-up card?

Academic dress and line-up cards may be picked up at the McGill University Bookstore, 3420 McTavish Street on the dates and times specified on this website. For more information, click here.

Can someone else pick up my academic dress and line-up card for me?

If you wish to have someone else pick up your academic dress, please provide them with a signed letter of permission specifying your name, student number, your degree, telephone number, and the name of the person collecting the academic dress.

For more information, click here.

Can I pick up my academic dress before the designated pick-up time for my Ceremony?

No, but you can designate another person to pick it up for you at the scheduled time.

For more information, click here.

Do my guests need tickets for the Ceremony?

No. Students are asked to invite no more than four guests. Please note that seating is first-come first-served. You will also be asked not to hold seats by the student ushers. For more information, click here.

Can my family take photos at Convocation?

You are welcome to take photos before and after the ceremonies. However, no photos will be taken during the ceremony so that everyone can enjoy the event. A professional photographer will take photos of the graduating students as they cross the stage. Also, there is a portrait studio set up at the McGill University Bookstore for additional photographs.

For more information regarding the photography, click here.

Do I confirm my attendance at the Ceremony?

No. Students do not have to RSVP. However, you must order your academic dress in order to attend. Your attendance is confirmed when you pick up your line-up card.

For more information, click here.

What happens if I am late for the Ceremony?

You are strongly encouraged to arrive at least one hour before the Ceremony begins. If unforeseen circumstances occur, all efforts will be made for you to cross the stage. Plan ahead to ensure that you, your guests and the University community enjoy this important event.

Does McGill hold any other graduation events?

Every faculty organizes a reception after the Convocation ceremonies conclude. Contact your faculty for additional details.