Graduation Preparation

Steps to Prepare for Graduation

Review the steps below to make sure you're on track to complete your degree requirements, earn your diploma, and officially become a proud member of our Texas State University and McCoy College of Business alumni community.

Step 1: Verify You Meet Degree Requirements

  • WHEN: At least one semester before you plan to graduate
  • HOW: Contact the McCoy College Advising Center at 512.245.1993 or stop by McCoy Hall 115 and request a graduation check advising appointment
  • WHY: To ensure you will fulfill all prerequisite sequences for your final semester of courses, avoid missing degree requirements, and to get helpful info about graduation preparation from your academic advisor

Step 2: Apply to Graduate (REQUIRED)

  • WHEN: At the start of your FINAL semester of classes, as soon as possible.
    • Don't postpone applying! Waiting to apply could put you at risk of being unable to make last minute schedule changes (if needed)
    • Changing your name (such as adding full middle name)/updating your diploma address can all still be done AFTER applying for graduation. For information on how to update personal information for graduating candidates, visit the Registrar's Website.
    • Note: All summer semester grads must apply at the start of summer I, even if you are only taking summer II classes
  • HOW: Online through CATSWEB. Applying takes 3-5 minutes.
    • Go to CATSWEB -> Students -> Academic Records -> Apply for graduation
  • WHY: Applying for graduation is a REQUIRED step for students to officially be awarded a degree from Texas State University.

Step 3: Prepare for the Commencement Ceremony

WHEN: After receiving email notification of your approved graduation application status

HOW: Review candidate instructions on the Commencement webpage for ceremony schedules, obtaining your cap/gown, attire guidelines, guest/parking information, etc.

IMPORTANT: Even if you cannot/do not plan to attend the ceremony, please know we're so proud of you and excited for you to reach this academic milestone!

Step 4: Other Suggested To-Do's

Apply for Tuition Rebate (if eligible):

  • WHEN: After applying for graduation and no later than 5pm the Monday immediately following the commencement ceremony
  • HOW: Submit your Tuition Rebate application online
  • NOTE: If you're not sure about your eligibility, contact our advising center at 512.245.1993 or businessadvising@txstate.edu

Join a Bobcat Alumni Network:

Visit Career Services:

Set Up TXST Email Forward:

  • WHEN: After officially graduating (when final grades/degrees have posted to TXST transcripts)
  • HOW: Follow these instructions from ITAC - TXST Email Forward