Preparing for Graduation

During your final academic year, follow the below guidelines for a successful graduation experience.

In the Fall:

In the Spring:

  • Visit the Rice Bookstore to obtain your regalia, cap, gown, hoods, and stoles.
  • Consult the Commencement website for the schedule of events, FAQs, and general information for families and guests.
  • Consult the coordinator of your residential college and/or the department coordinator of your major/minor/certificate for additional information (UG students only).
  • Consult the graduate program administrator of your home department and/or Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (GPS) for additional information (GR students only).
  • After final exams you will be requested to complete the Senior Exit Survey. A hold on accessing your transcript will be placed on your records until you complete the mandatory survey. An e-mail invitation will be sent to you at your Rice e-mail address with details after the final exam period in May (UG students only).

After Commencement:

  • Collect your diploma (available mid-to-late July).
  • Login to ESTHER to update your contact information.
  • Remember: Your Rice University e-mail address remains active until the August following graduation.
  • Remember: ESTHER accounts are active indefinitely after graduation. As an alumni, you retain the ability to login and access your account at any time. You are encouraged to regularly update your contact information.

Graduation FAQs

For a list of frequently asked questions about Graduation, please click here.

For an overview of the Graduation Certification Process, please click here.