Graduation vs. Commencement

What's the Difference?

Graduation - After meeting all requirements to earn a certificate, diploma or degree, students are eligible to graduate. Graduation is the certified completion of those requirements and is not a ceremony.

Commencement - Graduates are invited to participate in a formal Commencement Ceremony held in May of each year. This ceremony is open to all graduates from the current academic year and is held at the Stanly County Agri-Civic Center in Albemarle.  Being part of the commencement ceremony is a celebration, not a confirmation of graduation.