Graduation & commencement

Graduation & Commencement 

Graduating students are invited to take part in our Commencement Ceremony that is held following the completion of the spring term.

Iowa Lakes Community College Commencement Ceremony is held on the Estherville Campus.  

Estherville Campus
300 South 18th Street
Estherville, Iowa 51334 

Students meeting degree requirements at other times during the year are invited to attend the Spring ceremony.

What’s the difference between graduation and commencement?  

Graduation is the process you go through to have your degree posted on your transcript. Commencement is the ceremony where we honor the academic achievements of our students.  

1. Meet with your Academic Advisor 
   Iowa Lakes Students should plan to meet with their academic advisor to discuss the completion of your certification or degree requirements.

    

2. Apply for Graduation  
   Iowa Lakes’ students are required to apply for graduation upon completing registration for your final classes needed to complete your degree or certificate.  
   
   If you plan to attend the commencement ceremony, cap & gown         information will be collected on the graduation application. Please go to the business office for assistance with the cap measurement if needed.

   Apply for Graduation

3. Confirm Your Graduation Status 
   The Iowa Lakes Records Office will evaluate your academic record for graduation. If you’re a candidate for graduation, you will receive a notification. If you have questions regarding your graduation application status please contact the records office by email.
    
4. Participate in Commencement  
   Students are encouraged to participate in the commencement ceremony to celebrate their accomplishments with family, friends, and staff.
5. Degrees & Diplomas
   Degrees will be posted on your transcript within the month following graduation.  Your Diploma will be mailed to the address you provided on your graduation application 6-8 weeks after your graduation date.